How do you super insulate?

If there isn’t any insulation, the best option is to bring in an insulation contractor to blow cellulose or fiberglass into the walls. Adding insulation to an unheated attic is usually a lot easier. If there is no floor in the attic, simply add more insulation, either loose fill or unfaced fiberglass batts.

What is a super insulated slab?

A thick layer of foam on a bed of compacted gravel supports the building, prevents frost damage, and keeps the heat inside. By Alan Gibson. Login or Register to download the PDF version of this article. ( 1.34 MB)

What is the most efficient wall insulation?

If you’re starting from scratch and building a home then using insulated concrete forms, which is literally building the insulation into your home’s structure, is the way to go for maximum efficiency. However, if you’re remodeling an existing home, spray foam is probably the best option for maximum energy efficiency.

Should a slab be insulated?

Slabs lose energy primarily as a result of heat conducted outward and through the perimeter of the slab. Installing slab insulation around the perimeter of the slab will reduce heat loss and make the slab easier to heat.

Can a passive house have a basement?

Instead, walkout basements can be included in a thermal enclosure. Though the above grade portion requires insulation for PH (Passive House), it can also have windows for natural light, and even solar gains, so the basement can be quality living space. This is a TFA (Treated Floor Area) return on the investment.

How do I super insulate an existing house?

One way to insulate walls of an old house is to focus on the home’s exterior:

  1. Apply a house wrap/vapor barrier to exterior walls.
  2. Attach 1-inch foam board insulation.
  3. Install siding over the insulation.
  4. Replace old windows with energy-efficient units.
  5. Caulk window trim and use weatherstripping to reduce air leaks.

What R-value do you need for Alaska?

This is especially true since the new Alaska State Thermal Standards are in place and many regions of the state which have a cold climate, require a wall which exceeds the standard R-value R-19 of a 2″ × 6″ stud wall to meet the minimum thermal efficiency standards.

How long does insulation last?

As a general rule, insulation should be replaced or retrofitted every 15 to 20 years. However, it may need replacing or retrofitting sooner depending on the type of insulation installed, the R rating of the original insulation, compression and movement over time, and whether any damage has occurred.

What is the best insulation for cold weather?

Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass Insulation This type of insulation material is widely available and comes in various shapes and sizes. For cold climates, Loose-fill Fiberglass Insulation is the best as it has an R-Value of 60.

Why do they put Styrofoam under concrete?

They reduce the effects of soil movement, decrease the amount of concrete required, and have thermal insular properties making them a cost effective component for any home, building or complex.

How much heat is lost through a concrete floor?

It’s the old Pareto, 80-20 rule with concrete floors. 80% of the heat is lost through 20% of the total surface.

Why don t houses in Alaska have basements?

This includes most of Interior Alaska and areas west and north of the Alaska range. 2. Enclosed crawl spaces or basements should not be constructed in soils subject to permafrost. Wood posts, mud sills or engineered foundations with open crawl spaces are suggested in permafrost soil.

How do Alaskans insulate their homes?

CCHRC has used spray polyurethane foam insulation to build affordable demonstration homes in rural Alaska since 2009. While spray foam has a high insulation value and competitive shipping cost, it requires skill to install and any errors can result in a drastic drop in energy efficiency of the building.