Basements - Without Groundwater Leakage

Verify that installation area is free of:

active water leaks, fuel leaks (i.e., gas, oil, propane), and pest intrusions

energized or undammed knob and tube wiring

uncovered electrical junctions

improperly terminated devices (ventilation fans, dryers, plumbing stacks, condensate lines, combustion appliance flues/chimneys, etc.)

unshielded high-temperature devices (non-IC rated recessed lights, chimneys, flues, vents, etc.) unless they are zero clearance devices

insulation escape openings

Verify that installation area:

is intact, able to support insulation weight, and air sealed

has a sealed class I vapor retarder installed over all bare earth

has all bulk sources of moisture directed away from the subspace walls (i.e., gutters, flashing, grading, drainage)

Select insulation that has a flame spread/smoke development index of 25/450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723 and is not water absorbent

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g., thermal or ignition barriers)

are low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealants for use inside the pressure boundary that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Remove any incomplete or unsealed vapor barrier from the foundation wall

Install insulation to prescribed R-value in full contact with the entire perimeter of foundation wall from ceiling to floor

If insulation has a vapor retarder on only one side install it facing the conditioned space

Attach rigid or batt insulation with mechanical fasteners

Seal all seams, joints, connections, etc. of insulation on the conditioned side of the assembly, or install a sealed air barrier on the conditioned side of the insulation (e.g., drywall, luan)

If termite pressure exists, maintain a 3" inspection gap from the top of the insulation to the bottom of any wood

Separate all foam products from living space with a thermal barrier material (e.g., 1/2" gypsum wallboard) as specified by applicable building code

If space is used only for the service of utilities, foam will be separated from the space using a suitable ignition barrier covering or coating according to manufacturer's specifications

If space is used for storage or occupancy, foam will be separated from the space using a thermal barrier material (e.g., 1/2" gypsum wallboard) as specified by applicable building code and manufacturer specifications

If code requirements are unclear, consult local code officials for clarification

Post a dated receipt signed by the installer that minimally includes: Installed insulation type, coverage area, installed thickness, and installed R-value