The basement is where many Hudson Valley homes lose the most heat: the rim joist at the top of the foundation is often bare wood against outdoor air, and the walls are uninsulated concrete or stone. Sealing and insulating the basement keeps the floors above warmer and the air drier.
Signs you need it
- Cold first-floor floors
- A damp or musty basement
- Spider webs moving at the top of the wall (air leaking in at the rim)
- Efflorescence (white crust) on foundation walls
How we do it
- Seal the rim joistSpray foam or cut-and-cobble rigid foam at the top of the foundation — the biggest leak in most basements.
- Insulate foundation wallsRigid foam or spray foam suited to below-grade walls, with fire protection where code requires.
- Cover exposed soilAny dirt-floor section or crawl area gets a sealed vapor barrier.
- Control water & humiditySump pump where water collects; a dehumidifier to hold humidity down.
Paying for it: Rim joist, foundation wall insulation, vapor barrier, dehumidifier and sump pump can all be grant-funded for qualifying customers. Check if you qualify →