Insulating Above a Slab
![PlastiSpan Above Slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/plastispan-aboveslab.png)
![DuroSpan Above slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/durospan-aboveslab.png)
![DuroSpan 250 above slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/DuroSpan250-Aboveslab.png)
![DuroSpan GPS Above Slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/durospanGPS-aboveslab.png)
![Energreen Above Slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/energreen-aboveslab.png)
![Energreen GPS enhanced Above Slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/energreengps-aboveslab.png)
![EnerSpan enhanced Above Slab](../../img/applicationsolutions/enerspan-aboveslab.png)
Insulating your basement floor provides added comfort and increased energy efficiency. When you insulate above your slab, the floor becomes noticeably warmer, making it a comfortable, more enjoyable living space that you can heat and cool for less.
Plasti-Fab’s code-listed EPS insulation is available in a variety of thicknesses to provide R-values to meet your desired energy efficiency. Insulating above a slab can be done during new construction or as a renovation project.
With the dependable distribution network of Plasti-Fab EPS insulation products and technical expertise readily available, insulating above a slab is a simple, cost-effective solution that provides long term benefits. The lightweight nature of EPS makes it easy to cut and install. Check out the Installation Instructions tab for a step by step guide to installing Plasti-Fab’s EPS insulation above your slab.
PIB 249 - DuroFoam Insulation for Basement Applications
PIB 251 - DuroFoam Plus Insulation Used In Radiant Floor Heating Systems
PIB 275 - NBC 2010 - DuroFoam Insulation for Interior Basement Applications
PIB 284 - NBC 2010 - PlastiSpan Insulation for Interior Basement Applications
PIB 286 - PlastiSpan HD Insulation for Interior Basement Applications
PIB 317 - 2012 BCBC - PlastiSpan Insulation for Interior Basement Applications
PIB 329 - 2012 BCBC - PlastiSpan HD Insulation for Interior Basement Applications
![Durofoam Insulating Under a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/building-code-usa.png)
1. Follow the Building Code
Be sure to follow the building code requirements applicable in your region.
![Durofoam Insulating Above a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/moisture-barrier-above-slab.png)
2. Install a Moisture Barrier
Cover the entire floor area with a 6-mil polyethylene moisture barrier to eliminate moisture migration into your living area.
![Durofoam Insulating Above a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/nailers-perimeter.png)
3. Attach Perimeter Nailers
Attach nailer with the same thickness as the insulation, around the perimeter, using self-tapping concrete screws penetrating the concrete floor as recommended by the screw manufacturer.
![Durofoam Insulating Above a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/nailers-insulation.png)
4. Install Nailers and Insulation
Cut the first row of insulation to a 21-3/4" width. Cut subsequent rows to 22-1/2" widths. Use the insulation cut as guides to place successive rows of nailers at 24" on centres. Install insulation with the green side facing up.
![Durofoam Insulating Under a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/sub-floor-prep.png)
5. Prepare to Lay Sub-Floor
Mark the walls where the nailer centres intersect it to help locate the nailers when attaching the sub-floor. The sub-floor thickness should be 5/8". Snap chalk lines across the nailers to ensure the sub floor material is placed squarely.
![Durofoam Insulating Above a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/secure-sub-floor.png)
6. Secure the Sub-Floor
Be sure to stagger the floor sheathing joints for extra stability. Apply adhesive to the nailers. Fasten the 5/8" floor sheathing directly to the nailers using either ringed nails or deck screws every 8". With an air nailer, use 2-inch ringed floor sheathing or screw nails. With a screw gun, use 1-1/2" or 1-3/4" deck screws.
![Durofoam Insulating Above a Basement Slab](../../img/blog/square/floor-finishing.png)
7. Ready for Floor Finishing
Your basement floor is now correctly insulated and ready for your final decorating touch. You should notice the finished floor is now much more comfortable.