Insulation Techniques in a Home Crawl Space
Home insulation has become increasingly important as the cost of energy rises and people become more environmentally conscious. A crawl space is an accessible area below your home that is unfinished. How you insulate it depends on if you are venting the area to the outside. An unvented crawl space generally creates a more comfortable home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Insulation Types
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Common insulation types for crawl spaces are fiberglass batts and foamed in place. Fiberglass batts have the advantage of being inexpensive and can be installed by the homeowner. Foamed-in-place insulation requires professional installation but has a higher R-value, which means its insulating properties are superior to fiberglass.
Vented Crawl Space
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A vented crawl space has openings to the outside, allowing air to flow into the area. The insulation is installed between the floor joists. The air/vapor barrier on the insulation needs to be on the conditioned side of the insulation. Because of the difficultly in installing a continual air/vapor system, the flooring material is normally relied upon for this function. The insulation is supported by friction in between the joists and house wrap or chicken wire stapled to the bottom of the floor joists.
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Unvented Crawl Space
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An unvented crawl space is maintained at the same temperature as the home. This is an advantage because you can now install plumbing through this area without the fear of a frozen or burst pipe. It also creates a more comfortable home by keeping the cold further away from the floors. An unvented crawl space is insulated in the same manner as the home. The walls are insulated and an air/barrier system is placed on the conditioned side of the insulation. Placing an air/barrier under the crawlspace floor is a good way to control air movement and reduce moisture in the home.
Advantages of An Unvented Space
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An unvented crawl space is conditioned so it can contain heating and cooling systems without expensive insulated ducts. It requires about half of the insulation, and air sealing between the crawlspace and the home is less critical.
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References
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