Crawl space insulation costs vary by size, insulation type, and material. Read this guide to learn how much your crawl space insulation could cost.
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How to Install Foam Board Insulation to Keep Your Home Warm
Get board to improve the comfort of your home
Get quotes from insulation pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from insulation pros near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Expert
COMPLETION TIME
8 hours
COST
$500–$1,00
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw
- Utility knife
- Straightedge
- Level
SUPPLIES
- Foam insulation boards
- Adhesive
- Furring strips (optional)
- Joint sealing tape (optional)
Are drafts making your home uncomfortable in the winter? Or is it too hot and humid in the summer? Adding insulation can improve your home's comfort level year-round while helping you save on heating and cooling bills. Learn how to install foam board insulation to make your home comfy and cozy throughout the year.
Prepping to Install Foam Board Insulation
Photo: bilanol/ Adobe Stock
Before you get started on your insulation project, you'll want to answer a few questions, such as: Is foam board insulation the right choice? And how much insulation will you need?
Foam board insulation is ideal for areas where other types of insulation, such as batt or blown-in insulation, are not available. It's a good choice for basement areas with concrete walls, but it can also be used in any place where batt or blown-in insulation could be used.
When picking out your insulation, pay close attention to the R-value, which determines how well the material insulates. Cooler areas need a higher R-value. Keep in mind that foam board insulation may not have the R-value you need based on your location.
Finally, remember to measure twice and confirm that you're buying the appropriate amount of insulation. You can always buy more if you don't have enough, but running out mid-project is not ideal.
Angi Tip
Correctly installing insulation can be difficult. Health and safety risks are involved; therefore, we highly recommend contacting a pro to ensure the job is completed safely and correctly.
How to Install Foam Board Insulation
Once you've picked out the right type of foam board insulation, it's time to start installing it. Follow these steps to make your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Measure and Cut the Boards
Determine what size boards you'll need for your walls. Foam board insulation often comes in 4-by-8-foot boards, meaning you'll most likely need to cut them lengthwise if your home has 8-foot ceilings.
Measure the space between the wall studs to determine the width of the insulation. For example, if your studs are 24 inches apart, you'll need boards that measure 21 inches wide.
Cut the boards using a circular saw or a sharp utility knife. Use a straight edge to guide the blade to ensure a straight line.
Apply the Adhesive
To attach the boards to the wall, apply a layer of construction adhesive to the back. A caulk gun will help you apply the adhesive smoothly and evenly.
Attach the Board to the Walls
Photo: bilanol/ Adobe StockHow you attach the boards to the walls depends on the wall type. If you're installing the insulation in the basement, on a concrete block wall, you'll first need to attach furring strips to the walls, then attach the boards to those strips.
The strips leave a gap between the concrete and the insulation, which is critical for preventing moisture build-up on the boards.
If you're attaching the boards to a wooden wall, you can attach them directly to the surface.
Use a level to ensure the boards are even, then smooth your hands along their surface to firmly attach them.
Seal the Joints
If you need to stack foam board insulation panels next to each other or vertically on top of each other, you'll also need to seal the joints between the panels.
Cut a piece of sealing tape to match the length of the panels, then smooth it between the two, creating a tight seal. Repeat with the remaining panels on the wall.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Looks can be deceiving. Installing foam board insulation can seem like a simple, straightforward project until you get started.
If you've never done any sort of insulation work before or find yourself scratching your head about the right type of insulation to buy or the R-value you'll need, your best bet is to work with a professional insulation company near you. A pro installer can help you pick the right material and ensure that the project is completed the right way the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Insulation services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.6★ avg. • 8 total reviews
- Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Regina H.
I conferred with 2 other contractors before Armstrong Electric. Nick and his crew showed me that the project was not as convoluted as the other contractors made it appear to be. They completed the entire project on time. They were professional, friendly and cleaned up after at completion. I...
ARMSTRONG ELECTRIC, LLC - David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Ernesto A.
Our exterior looks brand new thanks to Custom Paint Jobs LLC. Theyre the best in town!
Custom Paint Jobs, LLC - Lia P.
Excellent experience with hiring Tether House to Mount our 77’ Samsung TV in our bedroom. Fast, friendly, and knowledgeable. Highly recommend.
Tether House - Jeffrey J.
The techs on my project, Shawn and Cliff, were great. They were prompt, courteous, and efficient. I am very happy with the results and would definitely contact Mr. Electric for any future electrical projects.
Mr. Electric of Columbus - Edna M.
We had our houses windows and back door replace this summer by Window Depot USA of Central. He gave us grate advise and saved my family lots money. The team did a fantastic job with installation. If you need help, they sure get job done right!
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Michael G.
Beginning with the estimate, Larry and Peyton were super helpful in getting my new condo's interior re-painted. Not only was the job well done, but also done in a super timely manner as promised.
Five Star Painting of Plain City and Powell - Mary C.
Great job...edging and pre clean up went well with a great job with seal coat. Friendly, efficient and professional.
All Star Paving and Sealing
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