steel rim joist insulating

Dec 31, 2007 1 Replies

I have a 4 year old house that has steel joists and rim joists. I notice a lot of cold air infiltration along the area where the builder had stuffed insulation.



I have reasearched a great deal and I wanted to be sure that my findings will work with steel.



- Start with dense foam insulation 1.5 inches thick cut to fit. - Seal with foam spray insulation



Question. I live in Great Lakes New York State area. Should I then add craft faced insulation in front of the foam followed by fire resistant drywall?



Either installation shall get fire resistant drywall in front of insulation.



thanks.. Keith


It's a cost/benefit trade. Foam is very expensive, so a common tactic is to spray a 1" layer of foam for the gap and insulation bebefits, then cover with fiberglass to bump up the R value.

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required