Exposed Fiberglass Insulation In Basement Ceiling

Here s an overview of the pros and cons of this approach as well as the different types of basement ceiling insulation available.

Exposed fiberglass insulation in basement ceiling.

My new house has an unheated basement typically 5 8 degrees less than living space with exposed fiberglass insulation between the ceiling i beams. The fibers if airborne can be a mild hazard and irritant but it is not a widely recognized hazard like asbestos. Disturbing fiberglass insulation can send particles into the air that act as lung eye and skin irritants. There can be no paper on any insulation that is not covered with wall board in case of a fire.

When installing it or disturbing it you should w. Fiberglass insulation will not degrade unless exposed to water. In other words you re in for a lot of work. The concrete walls are not insulated.

When finishing a basement to create either additional living space for items such as a game room bar or spare bedroom it will often be necessary to install a new ceiling. When considering basement insulation you have two choices. Does the exposed fiberglass insulation in the ceiling pose any risk to my children who sometimes play there a o cold spring n y. The exposed fiberglass insulation is fire code in most states.

In this case even if you don t plan on completely finishing the basement you should cover the exposed fiberglass insulation for safety reasons including. The fiber could become airborne if a vent is blowing on it or it is disturbed in some way. Exposed fiberglass insulation shoved in a crack a closer view of the same laundry room showing the fiberglass in a crack between the wall and the beam exposed to the air. This is a movie theater behind the screen with exposed fiberglass insulation hanging on the wall being used as a sound barrier.

It turns out insulating your basement ceiling is not the most effective approach and can cause several unintended problems. That appears to be fiberglass insulation. Generally the material is considered safe. Insulate your basement ceiling or your basement walls.

Insulating the foundation walls may be more effective and less problematic. However there are some situations where it is not advisable. I do not plan to finish the basement but would like to put some exercise equipment down there and am concerned by the potential health risk from inhaling fg fibers. And now that your basement is going to be cold in the winter you ll also need to insulate any ductwork and hot water pipes that are below the ceiling weatherstrip the basement door and wrap a thick layer of fiberglass around the water heater tank.