Things You'll Need:
- Batt Insulation
- Insulation hangers
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Step 1
First of all it is important to know that your local building codes do not allow you to interfere with the flow of crawl space vents. So you are wondering how to keep that cold air from making your floor so cold and driving your heat bill through the roof. And you may be wondering if the local building inspector will actually show up on your door step wondering why you have blocked the vents. No, he will not so let me tell you why it is against IBC or International Building Code. If your crawl space is not properly vented moisture will begin to build underneath the house and mold will begin to grow. The mold can grow into black mold which is the deadly toxic version of mold. I know this is not what you want.
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Step 2
So now you are looking for an inexpensive way to cut down on heat cost. The most inexpensive way to do this is by installing what they call Batt Insulation which is sold at your local lumber outlet. You need to measure the distance between your floor joist prior to purchasing to make sure you get the correct width.
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Step 3
Once you know what size you need, go to your local lumber dealer and purchase the insulation, preferably nothing with less than an R-13 value. You will also need to pick up insulation hangers. Or you can use coat hangers cut into sections just a little longer than the distance between your floor joist designed to hold the insulation in place.
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Step 4
Once you have the material you need, you will need a pair of coveralls and a dust mask. Once underneath the house you can begin to install the insulation and cut to the desired length. Once the insulation is in place, take your hangers and bow them to get them between the joist and push them up tight to make sure the insulation is touching the bottom of the floor. Make sure you add enough hangers to support the insulation, otherwise a strong cross breeze will knock it down. Maybe not what you wanted to hear, but the cheapest way to handle your problem.
