How to Insulate a Basement | This Old House

[@nathayes123]

I have been a huge fan of Tom Silva for over 15 years. His knowledge base of all things related to home construction is astounding. I worship the man. This basement project, however, puzzles me. Unless the homeowner specifically requested this wall construction method, I believe this is not the ideal way to finish a basement. As a DIYer, I finished my basement a few years back. I also used tongue-and-groove rigid foam insulation (layered with rockwool to increase R-values). There is a clear tape that is specifically made to seal the vertical joints and any seams between adjacent foam panels. This was not used in the video. My understanding is that the air in the room should be completely isolated from the comparatively colder surface of the cement foundation to prevent condensation/mold issues. Drilling all of those holes for the 1x3s through the foam board, and cutting out the foam to accommodate switch and outlet boxes don't help matters. The top and bottom of each panel should also have been sealed with caulking. Also, Tom opted to install 1x3s vertically to allow for electrical wiring. Building codes in most jurisdictions require at least 1.25" wiring clearance from the stud edge to prevent perforation by drywall screws or nails. The method Tom employed (using 1x3s) likely results in clearances of only 0.75" since the ROMEX isn't going to lie completely flat against the foam panels. I believe this would fail an electrical inspection. Anyway, I used 2x4 framing to finish my basement for many reasons - It isn't that much more work vs using 1x3s, the cavities between studs can accommodate much thicker insulation (my walls have overkill R-30 values), HVAC/plumbing can be better concealed, and the framing can support heavy shelving, if needed. The only negative if I were to do this today is the ridiculous cost of lumber.

[@hotrodroxie]

MVC!

[@bleach181]

I have finished alot of basements and we always use 2x4 framing spaced 1/2'' - 1"' from the wall to create an air barrier. Foundation walls are rarely true enough to do it like in this video, I couldn't imagine doing it like in this video..

[@rrbarti]

Hi, Thanks for sharing. I want to finish my basement too.. How do i screw the horizontal frame to the basement floor? Is its concrete what type of screws and equipment should i use to screw the frame to the basement floor? Could you please let me know?

[@rrbarti]

@@nathayes123 : thank you so much for your reply. I really appreciate it.

[@rl4889]

Nat is 100% correct. My only defense for bob is that the home must be in a VERY dry environment.

[@Bangbangbigelow]

He made measuring and fitting the cutout for that foam board look so simple, guy is legendary

[@MrCutlash]

Run the adhesive vertical so that if water were to get in, it could trickle down. Applying the adhesive horizontal will allow the water to accumulate and mold.

[@tigger55555]

If you got water coming into your basement thur the concrete walls . It doesn't matter which way the adhesive is running because that the least of your problems. Greetings from Cincy Ohio U.S.A.!

[@backtothebasics6595]

True both points. If a leak is possible it would be best to run down.. but any leak is terrible. Concrete always seems to crack no matter what eventually. From my experiance in a prefab trench factory, so if it was me. I'd rather run every bead of adhesive vertically hoping for the least amount of damage in the long run.. but who builds houses for the long run anymore??

[@seppoilmarinen8885]

Good idea.

[@maxipaw-dc5xj]

You should be doing your own show

[@meme7591]

@@backtothebasics6595 I don't understand what you mean by vertical

[@brutebiz82]

Yeah, I think I'll use 2x4s to construct my basement walls. Seems easier, plus I won't need to create a multitude of holes in my foundation walls as I wood anchoring 1x3 lattice to them.

[@advantagemarine7305]

Maybe use impregnated wood on the floor slab to stop it rotting out in case of damp?

[@turdferguson12]

Me too. I can frame walls way faster than I can drill a billion holes in my concrete walls

[@turdferguson12]

I do hate losing 7 inches of floor space but it’s worth it to me

[@aguafria9565]

i'm repairing a basement with rotten wood. won't see me putting in any organic material.

[@Greyshot]

**Very important for anyone using this method to insulate their basement walls. If you do not completely seal the top of the foam board to the concrete wall (use can spray foam), there is a very good chance you will get moisture that rises up and seeps out at the top of the foam board, even if you have dry walls. Batt insulation in your ceiling will allow this moisture to pass through then the moisture will get trapped between the subfloor/rim joist and the insulation. Rot will begin and you'll never know it until it's too late. Don't ask me how I know.

[@Greyshot]

@@DaniellaTousson I'm not familiar with that product but don't think it could hurt anything. I'd still make sure the top of the foam board is completely sealed to the wall.

[@22kmclaren]

​@@DaniellaTousson, I'm a capable DIYer, not a pro, so take this with a grain of salt. Bats in the rim joist void was the recommended best practice years ago. Now folks have realized it causes mold. I've been watching a bunch of YT vids ahead of finishing my basement. Modern guidance I have seen is from Concord Carpenter, and a couple other channels is: Remove the bat insulation in the rim joist and upgrade to rigid foam there as well. (you could also pay a pro for spray foam, but that is not DIY friendly) The air permeability through bats allows humidity to move towards the cold inside face of your external sheathing. In cold months, the moisture condenses, and you get mold. The new rigid foam should be equal or greater R-value to what you have in the walls above. Use multiple layers if needed to get enough R-value. An important note: cut the rigid foam 1/4 to 1/2 inch smaller than the void in the rim joist you are filling. That extra space gives you room to use canned spray foam and make an airtight seal between the foam and the joists. No interior air touching the cold external sheathing should mean no humidity condensing and no mold.

[@melvin_0bviously]

@@22kmclaren That’ll work fine! Alternatively, you could order a frothpak of spray foam and not have to cut the rigid into the bays, but you’ve got the principles down.

[@22kmclaren]

@@melvin_0bviously, I did not know about that product. Thanks for sharing! For cost savings, I will probably stick to cutting rigid foam in easy to access bays. But I will definitely pick up some frothpak for the tight spaces!

[@Real_PK]

I highly recommend spray foaming. I did this when I finished my basement. Cost was about 2x over foam board but honestly it's a drop in the bucket when you look at the overall cost of finishing a basement. The contractor was done in half a day. It would have taken me several weekends of work if I went the foam board route. Get several quotes as I found they vary quite a bit.

[@cywilly5065]

Big respect for Tom Silva. That said, 2x2 steel studs avoid so much of this hassle.

[@richdelgzz]

I like the foam insulation but would rather frame out with 2x4s. Drilling into the concrete wall seems to be counterproductive to the water proofing done earlier with cement.

[@anthonythorp7291]

That's what I was thinking. All that work when 2x4 wall easier/faster.

[@pat7473]

I was going to ask about that.

[@justinvanamberg7206]

Your typical basement wall is 8" thick. The only way to install and secure the wood frame wether it be 1x3 or 2x4 is drilling into the concrete wall and either nailing it like he did, or using tapcons. With the basement wall being 8" thick, them drilling into it 4-5" deep won't effect anything to do with water coming in.

[@justinvanamberg7206]

Also, wether or not you use 1x3 or 2x4, the only difference at this point is how much space your using and cost of wood. All the wood frame is doing is holding up the drywall, it's not for anything structural so there doesn't need to be anything more than enough to hold the ¹/2" drywall up.

[@anthonythorp7291]

@@justinvanamberg7206 Or you could glue the 2x4 wall to floor and nail the top to joists.

[@bgjb-r1499]

Tom is a wealth of knowledge. He takes carpentry to another level. Sure there are different methodologies in finishing a basement, most of which are dictated by cost.

[@codygarner2095]

That pink foam is a vapor barrier. Usually a tape on the seams is added but in this case they did not seal these seams between each piece nor did they do so at the top. I think this is because as they mentioned in the first part of the video, the basement is externally sealed.

[@tmoe7382]

Tom is hands down the best carpenter in America today....he taught Norm everything he knows! Axt him

[@ronlovell5374]

Love that foam for basements, but I like to use Delta wall or other types of dimpled water barriers behind it and run it to the floors, even under the walls in dry or wet basements. Having an air gap is extremely important on both sides, especially where basement walls contact the earth.

[@cjwise7741]

Jeff from Home renovision DIY has a great solution for this. He mounds the adhesive on the back and gently pushes the foam board against the wall to leave the air gap behind it. That’s what I plan on doing with my basement.

[@patty109109]

@@cjwise7741 I think if you run vertical beads behind the foam and just push the foam up normally there will be enough of a gap (even if it's very small) to let any extra moisture down. As for delta, if it's a newer house it's going to have the dimpled delta on the exterior of the foundation.

[@CreachterZ]

Tom is a freakin' magician. I bow to his skills.

[@waltkosch]

I wish I had Tom at my house. If only for the motivation. 😂 This guy should be in the Man hall of fame.

[@johnduffy6546]

Tom is an encyclopedia of knowledge...And, one heck of a teacher

[@Fabulousfreak189]

this was made YEARS ago but its helping me SO much now! Thank you so much for this

[@tannerc900]

I love all the videos with Tom in them and I always watch his videos especially if I’m going to do the project myself but I gotta say, I would never finish a basement this way.

[@SenhorRomantico1]

I love Tom's explanations. I can just hear him giving advice to his kids. Junior, you want the gray car. The red one will attract too much attention from the police when you are speeding. Speaking of speeding, let's get a move on applying that cement.

[@mrkennyfernand]

lol that last part lol lol.

[@martellm6587]

⁰⁴

[@flyjarrett]

Sment

[@negativecreep7963]

Actually, you want the red car. The gray car blends in more easily with the road, so when that 80 year old is looking both ways before pulling out on to the highway, they'll be less likely to see you coming and pull out right in front of you.

[@aleksok6803]

Junior buy a red car girl wakes up on it to fall for it ....jump up to you right on the go

[@mikemike8087]

You make it look so easy when they do this that's from years and years of doing it I get some good tips

[@mikez4132]

I just did a 2,800 sq ft basement with 2in Kingspan panels tight to the block with the seams taped. A 2x4 wall around the entire perimeter pressing the panels in place. All rim joist ends blocked with the same panels cut to fit between floor joists and then sealed with spray foam. The basement, a full bath, tv room, bar, and two bedrooms are a constant temp and very comfortable. The area heats or cools with nearly no effort. Take the time and do it right if you are going to make the investment at all.

[@falsealarmno]

You used 2×4 studs to press the foam panels against the basement wall? Many basement walls bow and are not even. So how did your panels line up butted against each other at the seams?

[@mikez4132]

@@falsealarmno panels were glued to the wall as well. New construction. No bows. If there is a bow you just add a shim where the gap behind the stud is. No issue. If the wall is severely bowed that is more of an issue for repair then adding insulation.

[@robertpatrene2540]

Tommy is the greatest person for showing how to do it .👏🇺🇸🏡

[@peterfarrell9187]

Tom as a union carpenter the process we used to do this very same job was to use a product called Z furring. Our supplier sold a product made by Clark Dietrich (many others as well) this galvanized steel stud system is installed vertically 24"OC using a powder actuated pin gun to mechanically fasten to block or poured foundations. Foam insulation is glued and held in place by the Z furring channel. difference

[@astroken573]

I investigated galvanized Z-channel, but realized it would be a huge thermal bridge from the cold concrete wall. Several articles I read confirmed this was no longer allowed where you had to meet any insulation standard.

[@markclauss2314]

I enjoy watching Tom Silva in his work...I have a question. The foam board runs vertically covering the entire foundation up into the joist cavity. WHAT ABOUT TERMITE INSPECTIONS IN THE FUTURE ??? An inspector will NOT be able to see the area where the sill plate meets the foundation....Is this a problem ???

[@poshko41]

That guy looked legit stoked at the end of the video. I’d be too if Tommy helped me frame my basement and all I had to do was drywall.

[@jakobporterz3211]

This is how I finished my basement. This method worked great.

[@JayMedJsn1]

So they covered the leaking holes but later drilled more holes?

[@sloprun]

The leaking holes were a result of metal spacers that spanned the entire wall, exterior to interior. The 8 inch foundation walls were only penetrated a couple of inches by the drilled holes they made.

[@peterbergeris6510]

For insulation I started with rockwool r23 in rim joists with fire block foam n sealed gaps.

[@princeodinson3239]

If u cut out some of foam from the foam sheeting on the wall for the electrical box will it not reduce its effectiveness at that spot where the electrical connections are?

[@wywybulldog3785]

such a slight effect you would never notice

[@danrichards496]

I have cinder block basement so I dry locked the wall and put a French drain with drainage mat a few feet up the wall then studded about 3/4 inch from the wall clearing the mat. Used a tank of great stuff to fill the gap and covering the blocks and filled the stud with fiberglass in the bathroom. I’m going to do the rest of the basement with foam board to save money. I’d also tape the joints of the board for extra security. I used the closed cell foam to make sure moisture doesn’t get through so I don’t have to tear out the shower. The rest of the basement won’t cost as much if I have to tear it back down.

[@salvatoresaccoccio2379]

I’m surprised at this approach to finishing a basement. Water will always be trapped if front of the foundation ties, sooner rather than later it will fail and water will find its way back in. Tom said it in the beginning that it should have been sealed from the exterior. And some one else made the comment of using 2 x 4 framing which I also agree to instead of drilling into the concrete wall possibly creating more susceptible voids for water penetration.

[@PackardDog]

I finishing our dry basement. framing 2x4 walls, using elevator bolts to elevate the sill 2 inches of the floor to protect from an possible water infiltration. Using a tall baseboard over floating floor tile to fill gap. Basements need to finished with plans that you will have water intrusion. Unless you dont mind throwing money away.

[@szargos]

So, if there was condensation under the plastic, then what? Just apply a sealer?

[@martytruelove5026]

Save money,use a5/32" drill bit,common or spiral 3.5" nail and tie wire.Put a5" piece of tie wire into your hole then drive the nail.We used this building bridges,works great,better than expensive Tapcons.Try it

[@martytruelove5026]

This will anchor strapping(3/4"0 or 1.5" material.Works on concrete,block,brick, and so on.It is a very strong and inexpensive anchoring trick.

[@lucash1980]

;) old school is still a good school. How about zip ties in the hole? A squirt of Great Stuff, pound the spike in. Less contact with the moisture in the concrete rusting the nail.

[@greggiono8789]

Could watch tom work all day!

[@johnbarbuto5387]

There are various ways to "skin a....basement". This looks like a good one in some ways. For example, I like that it doesn't intrude on the room much while allowing for the electrical wiring. Very nice. The only issue would be if you wanted to mount shelves to the finished wall. The thin stock might not support much weight. And, in the future someone might not know that it is only "one by" stock behind the drywall. Also, there is the issue of "drilling" into the electrical wires. People will put things up on walls, with screws, or even nails. With standard studs you can put nail plates over the wires to protect them from intrusions by these attachment devices. On this kind of wall you really would need to be sure to use a detection device to be sure screws or nails are not driven into wires.

[@longislandbasements]

Thats great advice! Rigid insulation is the only way to go for basement applications. Batt insulation is a no no. It acts like a sponge and holds water and moisture where rigid repels water and moisture.

[@jerrysmith7166]

Closed cell spray foam...

[@aaronbays4]

@@jerrysmith7166 That stuff is awesome but not really DIY friendly. Would be a lot more $$$$ to pay a guy to do it than use that pink styarafoam like in the video.

[@shimes424]

@@jerrysmith7166 even the guys you pay do it wrong all the time. Stuff is deadly if done in thick layers (done quick n lazy)

[@jerrysmith7166]

Scott H ...I’ve been spraying it for 16yrs now I personally haven’t had any issues but live heard of very few horror stories

[@jerrysmith7166]

Aaron Bays you can buy froth kits relatively cheap and they pretty easy to use.

[@terrydolphin8353]

Been an insulator in New Hampshire / Massachusetts for years, I have never seen this system. Usually standard framing with closed cell spray foam.

[@ryanfischer6550]

Terry Dolphin depends on what energy code provisions are for the space. Up in New Hampshire where you get cold cold ground, spray foam maybe the more cost effective method due to the amount of R value needed. Further south in warmer climates where the frost line is only a few inches, foam board maybe the more economical option.

[@ericgustin3386]

@@ryanfischer6550 foam board is better and cheaper in every situation becuase foam board IS closed cell spray foam. its just been made at the factory. problem with spray foam is, if the mixture, temperature and humidity arent exactly right, you can get serious problems with the spray foam. much cheaper and more efficient to use the panels. also , theres no need for a vapor barrier, cause anything over 2" is automatic vapor barrier.

[@jimc8121]

I have yet to find a video that deals with getting rid of the concrete bumps in the walls covering the rebar ends. Was this concrete slapped on to seal potential water leaks? Or is it somehow concrete that stuck to the rebar when the forms were pulled away? Can I chip it off? Should I chip it off? Should I just put enough pressure on the foamboard to give where the bumps are, conform to the bumpy wall? Should I quit and just build a tiki hut?

[@WilhelmWanders]

What did you end up doing?

[@burningdust]

If you live in a part of the world that experiences extremely cold winters, the risk of frost and ice forming in-between the XPS panel and concrete are ridiculously high. To reduce the risk, the perimeter of each panel would have to be completely airtight. Good luck achieving that against a poured concrete foundation. Doesn’t matter how dry your basement is, dehumidifier, RH

[@evgenykujin1725]

Agreed. So what would be a better solution for cold climates then?

[@burningdust]

@@evgenykujin1725 a properly installed spray foam solution is about the only way to retrofit in an existing home. ICF with compatible spray foam around the rim joist if building new. It’s an uphill battle against moisture / mould otherwise.

[@jonathankerner2094]

Tom, a question. Instead of affixing the cross pieces with wall "nails", why not build 2 x 4 (or 2X2) walls and stand them up against the insulation securing them to the joists and maybe a few anchors into the concrete floor? This way, you avoid putting holes into the walls - a thing that makes me fear creating water leaks. Pressure treated bottom plate, of course.

[@trumpisaconfirmedcuck5840]

That's how I did a room in my basement. I used thinner insulation, covered the concrete (didn't need the to fill in the holes as mine was sealed from the outside wall), then I just built 2x4 walls and pushed them against the concrete or ceiling beam. I did not drill into the ceiling beam. I just attached the walls to the floor (pressure treated bottom as you said) with the double nail method and attached the walls to the joists and to each other.

[@conscience-commenter]

@@trumpisaconfirmedcuck5840 A concrete or stone foundation radiates the cold so choosing a thicker insulation and sealing any cracks minimizes the cold transfer and reduces heating bills .

[@Chickennss]

That’s how I did it. Worked well and allows truing the walls

[@joshymcdaniel9233]

@Trace M buy once cry once my friend with 1x2 u will never get outlets in there if u want to run outlets lights etc’ sometimes paying more makes it easier so it’s done right and u don’t have to re do it’ very min I would use 2x3 for walls and get shallow mount electrical box for outlets etc If u want no electrical sure wth toss some 1x2 furring strips on there and screw drywall to it I however fear the 1x2 may split easily when nailing/ screwing into concrete

[@joshymcdaniel9233]

@Trace M I’m aware in the video what they r doing Jonathan asked why not build a wall that’s why I made that comment

[@NatePaddock]

So I did this for my basement. Burned out 2 hammer drills (Ryobi) and needed 4 drill bits for the spring spikes. In the end, to install the outlets, you have to cut out all the way to the concrete. So there really is no vapor barrier possible. And those could be entry points for cold air or moisture depending on where you live. Also, the lattice work is not practical for an outside corner. You will end up with two pieces of drywall touching but with no supporting post behind them. Wiring did work well but does require more pitting of the insulation.

[@ToolDeals]

Those Ryobi's will do it every time! I try to tell people, lol.

[@OffroadCpl]

Should of use short boxes

[@ericgustin3386]

@@OffroadCpl should have framed it correctly witrh 2x4s

[@NoneNone-nq3un]

Before adding the foamboard, wouldn't it have been a good idea to seal the basement walls to prevent any moisture from coming in? Also doesn't drilling the holes for the nails create the same problem you had with the ties leaking?

[@evanhlavaty]

The point of the plastic at the beginning of the video was to show there wasn’t a moisture issue, so no need for a sealant. The holes being filled with the concrete contain a metal rod that extends through the full width of the foundation acting as a direct pathway for water to come through (0:55). The holes they were drilling for the nails only went into the wall a few inches.

[@letsgetitstarted0708]

Sealants are typically only good in the short term…not the best for the long term health of the concrete.

[@justayoutuber1906]

Keep the vapor barrier on the warm side of insulation. Not on concrete

[@crapper1]

People who hate styrofoam noise will find this episode to be the best one ever made

[@ridered300]

I have a concrete block basement, can I use this type of sheet insulation? Maybe not something to worry about, but would the mortar gaps collect moisture if it's humid? Just thinking because the walls aren't as flat like these ones.

[@smidtwarner]

Same technique would work with CMUs. The slight con cavity of mortar joints is a non-issue.

[@ridered300]

@@smidtwarner thanks, I just had a quote to have a contractor do it because I just don't have the time. But he recommended not insulating below ground level because you need some heat to transfer out to keep the frost away. So for now I'm just having the rim joists spray foamed.

[@lazzyrj1]

New homes are so easy to work on . Try this on a hundred year old concrete in a hundred year old home here in Chicago . Not so easy .

[@tufaznail]

Ok Debbie Downer.

[@flilguy]

My dad's cousin had basement was from the 1920s. In 1985 they basically put a new basement under the house. Although in 2020 that may cost way too much! They made the basement taller (deeper) and it looks really nice. They did most of the work themselves.

[@steffensimmons2428]

How come the vertical studs we put flat instead of out so you had the depth for electrical boxes?

[@331moto]

Every single 1x3 board I have used has been anything but straight. I can only imagine how wavy the dry wall will look.. why not just build a 2×2 or 2×4 framed wall and anchor it at the bottom and at the top? Drilling holes into the concrete block is just asking for water to find its way in...

[@dennisrasmussen5351]

You make it look so easy using tricks of the trade

[@exnjute]

I did my basement(1,500 sg ft) similar to this 5 years ago but I went even further. I did the outside walls with the same pink foam boards but used 4x8 panels instead of 2x8....cheaper that way. Then I used 1" foam(4x8) glued to the concrete floor. Then I taped every seam... walls , floor and floor to wall with Tyvek tape. This creates a thermal envelope. Then I shot down 3/4 T&G subflooring(4x8) through the foam into the concrete floor. Then I framed standard 2x4 walls inside the foam giving me normal walls to run plumbing and electrical. You only lose 2" in the room doing this but it naturally is more costly, more lumber cost. But it eliminates the need to drill a hundred holes into the foundation walls. Then I ran my plumbing and electrical. Then I installed conventional 3.5" fiberglass insulation between the studs. Rock, mud, prime paint. Although I put in heat/ac runs, I probably could have done without it. Basement is nice and warm in winter and rarely need A/C even in 100 degree heat in summer. I think insulating the floor did the trick.

[@lionintu]

Hmmm you have me thinking maybe I'll insulate my floor with 1" 4x8 also. I'm getting 66° passive temps without even installing the roxul r15 between studs (I live in NYC) This winter has been warm since installing 1" Pink Foam all around the walls. But this also includes finding and sealing every gap mainly where the concrete and siding meet.

[@victorbash17]

Any thoughts on where to buy that tongue and groove foam board...? Nobody seems to carry it anymore... just square edges. Thanks!

[@SinnisjInsulator]

Ya the only solution I would think is to buy a foam canister to cover those joints. #sinnisjInsulator. Or you could try froth packs with closed cell foam.

[@jonathasnyder]

So let me get this straight first you need to wet the cement then lubricate the hole with a mist and finally just push it in the hole. Most excellent video.

[@andrewsbbq]

Would you ever frame a gap between the concrete foundation and the foam board?

[@Leg0z]

I feel like Tom and Grady built a pretty good bromance in this episode.

[@dantheman20127667]

2:55

[@Leg0z]

@@dantheman20127667 LOL!!!

[@The-Pug-Experience]

@@dantheman20127667 lmfao

[@hk93shooter]

if you did have some moisture coming through the basement walls is it good to use a drylok sealer first before the foam board? i have some damp spots in mine. house built in 1953. block walls.

[@oby-1607]

Some good practices here with the foam insulation and the furring strips installed on the wall. But, you should never drill through your insulation you just installed for the furring strips. Better yet would have been to install a stud wall to attach the drywall. The problem is concrete basement walls are always wet. Some times of the year, wetter than others. Proof of this was in the tracking of the rust from the anchors in the wall. The anchors now embedded in the concrete will become conduits for the moisture in both directions. The best solution is the dig up the outer wall. Waterproof the concrete and then insulate from the outside to keep the concrete conditioned. This however was probably not financially practical in this case.

[@pratwurschtgulasch6662]

You are absolutely correct. The guy in this video seems like an amateur who doesn't understand moisture in buildings to me.

[@mikemm03]

Does this foam have to be covered to prevent fire hazards or can it be left exposed?

[@neckofthewoods24]

No way I’d drill all those holes into the foundation walls! Put the foam up and then just build a normal 2x4 wall anchoring the base plate to the slab and the sill plate to the floor joists. Hell now you can even pack in insulation into the 2x4 stud void to build it up even more since ICF homes have 2-3” of foam on the inside and the outside of the basement walls.

[@lionintu]

I agree. That's what I did in my home in NY

[@dcq5381]

Would you need a vapor barrier to finish the install? Such as 6mil plastic acustically sealed before drywall goes up?

[@neckofthewoods24]

Ephraim Quinones with EPS foam and taped seams you don’t technically have to. Vapor barrier depends where you live and how you place it.

[@dcq5381]

I'm upstate NY so winter's are long. I'm pretty sure my partially finished basement walls only have been studded with unfaced fiberglass and finished drywall.

[@neckofthewoods24]

Ephraim Quinones I see so many different thoughts and builders and code saying how it should be done and again all are different. To me, if you have something up already, remove the dry way and see if it’s wet/dry or mold. If no mold and dry then I’d stick with what works. If no barrier like you say then 2” foam against the block should be fine.

[@RelaxedPuppy]

What is the fire rating of the foam board? Is drywall required to be placed over the foam board for fire resistance?

[@wolfpack2233]

Could you use a ram set instead of drilling and hammering the nail in like they did? Would it damage the foam?

[@tycox8704]

A ramjet nailer would rupture soft materials like foam board insulation.

[@julyseng5653]

Best contractor and the best show.

[@kittiolivier8789]

Hi, I like this way of framing over the foam board. However, I am concerned that if the concrete wall is not perfectly leveled and bump free under the foam, the foam boards and the wood frame will be warped too. Then, the drywall boards could be warped too. Any feedback based on experience with this technique regarding risk of drywall warping would be greatly appreciated.

[@Franisboche]

Then you would put a level on the wall and shim the 1x3's so they're all even and it'll not be wavy.

[@etiennebolduc838]

Thanks for your video. Why did you isolate the wall before the installing the subfloor? I want to isolate my basement but I'm not sure what to do first( wall or floor) .

[@pdogakron1623]

Isn't Formular 250 recommended for the basement wall EXTERIOR and 150 for the interior? Your furring system seems much more complicated than using 2x4 studwalls

[@johnbone8286]

I believe using tap cons on wolmanized boards no insulation ,using air as an insulator this letting any condensation or future water problems drain freely down to the floor. Tyvek the studs put up green board. Seal your joints be done. Would probably be wise to leave your wall at least 1". Off the floor to allow drainage if water does become an issue using plastic cove base or foam. If done this way there should never be any materials used having to ever be replaced unless submerged by water.

[@ducamealy5856]

After watching this video, I now understand the explanations about retrofitting the house for earthquakes.

[@ericgustin3386]

toms one of the best. but i cant believe he finished the basement this way. first, use 4x8 insullation panels. so much faster. second, and most important, never use strapping and think you can run wires behind it. 100 percent against code in every state. plus youve just put hundreds of holes in your concrete foundation. just put up the foam panels and also put foam panels on the floor. tuck tape all the panels. if you did the floor as well, put down 3/4 advantech sub floor and predrill and tap con screw the subfloor to the foam and concrete. then build walls using regular 2x4s and run your wiring correrctly. after which you can add fibergalss in the bays or cut pieces of foam baord to go in the bays. cut them 14" wide so you have at least A 1/4" on each side to spray foam in. you dont have to do the floor with foam, but it does help a lot giving the entire basement a full thermal break.

[@kaybrown5637]

I did the condensation test twice on my basement walls in two different places. No problems. But I did that in the Winter. Does it really make a difference what time of the year you test for condensation on the basement walls since Winters tend to be drier than Spring or Summer?

[@Keifsanderson]

It makes a big difference. That was the first thing I thought about when I saw the "test." In full-season climates, basement humidity drops significantly in the winter when outside ground water freezes. Test in the spring and summer for the worst case scenario.

[@Joshua79C]

Many of you folks forget about water pipes (which tend to develop leaks) when doing moisture testing and the best time is during the season of spring and autumn since that is when condensation season starts and ends.

[@arthurdduda8233]

this old house one of the best tv. shows ever.

[@spiderpig641154]

5:37 This sound should be used for crowd control

[@anthonyrossi8255]

@@GreenPlanet669 controlling crowds

[@runningwolf8115]

I was wandering if you have a ASK This Old House were you talk about insulating a basement sub flour in a Canadian house . My problem is that most video online show insulation project that have face insulation . In canada we have no face insulation . It would be great if the was done for canadian also

[@alexhatcher8812]

I'm assuming that sort of wood layout removes the need for a firebreak? Hi from 2019!

[@smidtwarner]

Fire breaks are need for balloon framing. There is only 8’ of vertical cavity so there would be no chimney effect requiring a fire break.

[@PoisonShot20]

I did just that, few years back, my basement is 3/4 under ground on West walls and slop down to couple feet East side. An old ranch, built back on 57, foundation is not poured concrete, they use concrete blocks, which is very porous, but at least it was sealed outside with tar, and had some drainage around using clay pipes. Is not a full 8' ceiling either, which driver me nuts, one more roll of blocks would have accomplished it🤯. Had big issue with hydrostatic pressure, when I bought the house everytime it rained water would started coming between the concrete joints, center. I installed a sump pump below floor an installed gutters. Basement has being dry since than, for about 15 years. Finished basement that foundation was not proper done, is a big challenge. You have to fallow some rules, a steps. I did read, searched, watch videos, for long time. But it's a site, forgot the name, that explains step by step how to do it, according to different situations. I actually printed out the pages that portioned to my case.

[@recyclespinning9839]

I think any seepage will be trapped behind those insulation boards and not dry and then have mold behind there. You should frame out a regular 2x4 wall. You should just use regular insulation and make sure it doesn't touch the wall . Any seepage will run down the wall and has a better chance to evaporate.

[@dashriprock5720]

I agree. not only for the sake of the mold but the concrete needs to breath. Trapping acidic (from soil) water on the concrete will only lead to it's deterioration. I would use the foam for a vapor barrier, but leave a space between the concrete and finished wall.

[@donteague614]

So how does the air circulate to keep dry? With such a small area behind the studs, how is the air gonna move enough to keep it dry. Seems that area needs its own ventilation or it could mold without proper air movement?

[@chasstauffer4883]

im doing mine soon. What ive taken care of moisture, mold control and foundation. What about a coat of flex seal before framing good deal yea?!?!?

[@canonicaltom]

@@donteague614 If you circulate room air against the cold concrete walls to dry them, there is no point in having any interior insulation. Also if your basement wall isn't properly waterproofed from the outside there's nothing you can do. Might as well just insulate the floor joists the best you can and pretend you don't have a basement.

[@makingProgressing]

This was great. Any info. On how to insulate the ceiling in the basement? (I'd like to insulate and paint it but leave the ceiling exposed)

[@artelliott]

How far apart are the spring spikes?

[@Cccc-ky4vq]

You don’t have to dry lock walls before insulating?

[@jvmez9557]

6:15..so satisfying to watch

[@forrestwebb6182]

I like the simplicity of this method, but an electrical inspector won't like it. How do you keep the required 1-1/4" clearance from front edge of the rough framing to the Romex? Any ideas are welcome! I guess you could run it vertically and tuck under the horizontal 1x3 with a nail plate there, but the rest of the wire run wouldn't be held back 1-1/4"+

[@genelamb571]

I actually used this method and was sorry I did. 1) those bent bolts were near impossible to find. 2) drilling holes into the (35 year old) concrete walls ate up tons of drill bits. 3) One wall was slightly bowed so that putting drywall over it was problematic. 4) etc. Had I known all the issues, I would have used a completely different method.

[@leeknivek]

did you use masonry bits? i have to drill concrete a lot at work and one bit will last months of hard use into concrete that is at times over one hundred years old.

[@alonzomartii]

Gene Lamb That's the thing. They were not bolts. Spring Spike Nail.

[@digitalconsciousness]

@@leeknivek and did he use a hammer drill? Regular drills aren't for concrete.

[@genelamb571]

@@digitalconsciousness Thanks to everyone for their comments but drilling the holes was only one of many issues with this wall structure. In retrospect I would have used normal framing with steel. Would have saved additional fireproofing, allowed for easier outlet and wiring installation and made it easier to put on baseboard.

[@thepsychonaut8212]

What happens to moisture between the foam and the foundation? Does it grow mold there?

[@evgenykujin1725]

Very good question. I believe, it will grow mold over time.

[@zebra5591]

I remember waking up early when I was a little kid to watch this show

[@egayetsk]

Motor rider me too- but more Norm Abram than Tom

[@TheIxtab2006]

I will use this insulation first and then will frame with 2 x 4 .

[@bbtank3000]

It must've taken them a good 2 hours to drill all those holes. The magic of editing.

[@goose1498]

Is it necessary to insulate a below grade basement? I think I rather skip it since my basement temp doesnt change much. Per local code it is not required so i was thinking about just slapping some drywall up.

[@Joshua79C]

Depends what climate/temperature zone you live in, in the colder regions up north, as they showed as a cheap retrofit works fine, but rebuilding the basement using ICF is far better and IMO the best way to go for many good reasons. Again it all depends on temperature zone, but a few ICF come with forms where one side can be revealed type with no foam to speak of, be it the exterior or interior.

[@eberts0604]

"I sawr some rust mahks..." Wicked hillahrious!

[@4vinylsound]

What do you do if you have cinderblock walls that constantly leak water how do you build a wall without getting mold

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

at 1:31, for safety sake, use thick gloves and a bolster with a plastic shank to prevent the hammer slipping, a heavy hammer will break your or seriously hurt your hand

[@claudedesaulniers2300]

Absolutely. I was waiting for some broken bones.

[@9mmkahr]

LOL

[@robs1852]

He almost did miss too

[@Pallidus_Rider]

I would be interested to see how this product could be used in attic with existing insulation.

[@hotrodroxie]

Put it down first... similar products are used these days very common with new builds

[@itaintrocketscience]

Push it in the hole Force it in That always works. Stops the leaks

[@DJ_Eostrix]

2023 And this video is still great. Good job.

[@RG-vh7cp]

Total newbie here. I always thought you had to build a frame for the walls first. Here, he's putting in insulation first. Can that work for any basement?

[@silverlocomotive9127]

It’s the best way to prevent warm moist air in a finished basement from condensing on an exterior concrete wall. There should always be an air gap between the finished interior and the insulation. It is important to use closed cell foam be it XPS panels or spray foam directly on concrete. Studding up a wall first then insulating between studs is not a wise decision. I would take it one step further and tape the seams with moisture barrier tape.

[@Dozer-z3x]

I have a house built in the late 1800's with an unfinished basement. There's no insulation in the ceiling/floor joists. Was thinking about putting up some insulation, but don't know where to start. Any recommendation? Thanks

[@shawncell1247]

when you pounded the rebar in you just made the leak worse you fix leaks from the outside or with landscaping

[@lainielandry163]

Do you put vapour barrier over the wall before installing the gyp rock ?

[@rachelleonard9907]

NO, the foam board is your barrier.

[@docmacg6315]

Great question. Glad someone answered it.

[@MrRootBeerSauce]

Step 1: Seal all the holes in the wall to prevent moisture from getting in. ... Step 8: Drill more holes in the wall to let the moisture back in.

[@MW-gh1mo]

Agree, makes no sense.

[@paulcollins9397]

J M... The holes Tom sealed went all the way through the wall to the outside. The holes he drilled did not.

[@binoshsamuel5893]

how would you put the foam board if you have french drain with the plastic that comes up few inches off the ground and how would you seal that?

[@ronblake6828]

When i finished our basement., I added a cork into each hle , then used the hydraulic cement.

[@polarlab113]

Did you put sealant on the cork?there is specialty foam rod for that use.it works great.I use it around window installs and then follow that with sealant or expanding foam

[@ratipati2007]

Which one is better? The traditional wall with 2x4 and insulation in cavity? Or this method using foam boards? I am confused.

[@EDHBlvd]

Did his brother ever show up?

[@madedigital]

lol

[@kalijasin]

Rediscover Film, Lol

[@DoctorSkillz]

I am this guy's neighbor. He doesn't have a brother. The show's producers fed him that line.

[@enriquecortez1963]

His brother showed up with a case of beer. They both got drunk and his brother ended up banging his wife.. Now they're getting a divorce and the house is being sold at auction. His brother got the highest bid and won after he made a scandal about the "sub par" work in the basement. The house sold so cheap that after the divorce he didn't have enough money to buy another house and fell into homelessness where he became a drug addict and died of an overdose. Rediscover film. Are your curiosities satisfied?

[@DoctorSkillz]

That clearly didn't happen. He still lives in that house. What's funny is that half of the basement is insulated differently than what is shown in this video. I think he hired contractors to help finish the job because he couldn't do it alone.

[@jtyers3]

Frame 2x4 walls 4 inches off the foundation with a treated plate and spray foam insulation way less time consuming

[@Ed100McNeal]

I just did this, but I'm curious what the electrician is going to say when he gets here in two weeks. I'm most concerned about how to protect the lines from being punctured by the drywall screws.

[@Allamericans1776]

Eddie McNeal how much did it cost per sheet?? and where did u buy it from??

[@Ed100McNeal]

Nick Mossey it cost $35.00/sheet from Lowes. I bought the 1x3s and the anchor screws as well. I used my Rigid impact drill to install it.

[@Allamericans1776]

Eddie McNeal do you have any pictures?? and how much did it cost in all??

[@Allamericans1776]

Eddie McNeal ???? any pics

[@Kloran27]

+Eddie McNeal What was the verdict? How'd you run the electrical? Any pictures? Getting ready to start this project myself and your experience would be helpful! Thanks!