Insulating concrete block
#1
My garage is enclosed within my house, (bedroom above) and would like to either panel or drywall the brick on the sides with the option of insulating, (if deemed feasable.) It is the standard 16 x 8 concrete block. Is there anything I should or shouldn't use? Do I need any type of vapor block? What about this studding I've heard of? (I live in Ohio and about 1/2 of the garage is underground). Thanks
#2
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What is the intended use of the garage once insulated? Will it remain a garage, or are you converting it to livable space? If it is to remain a garage I would sheath the walls with extruded polystyrene, gluing it directly on the block, then cover with drywall. The polystyrene will serve as its own vapour barrier. Rigid insulation is available in various thicknesses an offer R5 per inch. Another approach is applying a poly or felt paper on the block wall to above grade to act as a "moisture barrier". Stud the walls with 2x4's, insulate with friction fit fibreglass batt insulation, add a poly "vapour barrier", then drywall. The ceiling of the garage sould already be insulated. If not apply the poly vapour barrier first, then the insulation, then the drywall. You may want to consider changing your overhead door to an insulated one, or at least applying rigid insulation to the existing.
#3
You did hit a few things on the head. Mainly, the garage door itself will be replaced very soon, as it in old and not energy efficient (wood and glass only)... It will continue to be used as a garage, as it's actually split into 2 different areas, garage and basement. There is an insulated wall between the 2, so that should be ok. I'm leaning toward polystyrene and paneling if it is possible, due to the fact that the wall seperating the basement and garage is already that way (paneled). What type of stud spacing should be used? As far as the ceiling of the garage, yes it is insulated. Thanks
[Edited by TheMailman on 10-27-01 at 07:57]
[Edited by TheMailman on 10-27-01 at 07:57]
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Depending on the level of insulation value you wish to attain. Assuming a R13 wall is desired and since the stud wall is not bearing any load you can use 2x4 @ 24" centers with a single top plate. If the paneling you mention is thin ie: 1/8 or 5/16" you should reduce the spacing to 16" O.C. Remember if you use batt insulation apply the poly or felt moisture barrier with a few inches on the floor. This will prevent any wood and insulation from contacting the block wall and concrete floor.