How To Insulate Under An Existing Concrete Floor

Up to 80 of heat loss in a floor slab occurs around the edges.

How to insulate under an existing concrete floor.

Insofast s insulation panels provide an easy way to insulate a cold concrete floor. Insulate existing concrete. In addition to offering insulation and energy savings the plywood subfloor described here can provide the perfect foundation for finish flooring such as carpeting adding warmth in look as well as in feel. Adding insulation under the concrete floor requires the same skill set and equipment as forming and pouring the concrete slab.

Add wire insulation hangers as needed to ensure a more secure hold. Insulating a solid floor. Insofast is a diyers dream a simple way to install insulation needing only a hand saw utility knife and caulking gun. Dealing with the edges the foam insulation and two layers of plywood can add as much as 2 inches of height to the garage floor.

But when adding insulation to an existing slab the vapor barrier is laid over the top of the slab before the foam insulating panels are installed. Typically the insulation would be situated below the slab and below the damp proof membrane for heavy duty use whilst normal domestic buildings would have a higher performing lower compressive strength material. Insulation is laid on the concrete and covered with a screed. The first thing to consider when looking into different types of concrete floors is why it s so important to insulate the floor slab.

The method shown above is the best way to insulate a concrete floor without digging it up and laying it again with insulation added below the finished surface. Where concrete floor slabs have replaced earlier floors they may include a damp proof membrane dpm but unless laid comparatively recently they might not be well insulated. Insulating a concrete floor can save you money on your heating bill making an attached garage or basement warmer and by extension the rest of your house. Insulating a concrete floor alternative options.

But it isn t cheap and it can cause additional problems such as raising the floor level too much. Step 1 excavate the area under the slab to 12 inches below the planned level of the top of the slab. Place it into the space between your existing floor joists relying on friction to hold it in place. There will be a damp proof membrane under the insulation and possibly a second membrane on top depending on the type of screed.

Most modern homes have a solid floor for example. This allows an area for insulation and fill material under the slab. The panels can be applied to every surface from floors to walls to ceilings.