An uninsulated basement is more than just a cold, damp space—it's a significant source of energy loss and potential moisture problems for your entire home. Professional basement insulation transforms this underutilized area into comfortable living space while improving your home's overall energy efficiency.
In Tulsa's Climate Zone 3A, basements face unique challenges from Oklahoma's expansive clay soils and seasonal temperature swings. Spray foam insulation addresses these challenges with superior moisture control and thermal performance.
Why Insulate Your Basement?
Energy Savings
10-20%
reduction in heating costs
Moisture Control
Vapor Barrier
prevents condensation
Living Space
Added Value
usable square footage
According to the Department of Energy, basements and crawl spaces account for significant energy losses in homes. Properly insulating basement walls can reduce heating costs by 10-20% while creating a more comfortable environment throughout your home.
Basement Insulation Options
Closed-Cell Spray Foam (Recommended)
For Tulsa basements, closed-cell spray foam is the superior choice. It provides excellent R-value (R-6.5 to R-7 per inch), acts as a vapor barrier, and prevents moisture from penetrating foundation walls—critical in Oklahoma's clay soil environment.
- R-Value: R-6.5 to R-7 per inch
- Moisture Protection: Class II vapor retarder at 1.5"
- Application: Applied directly to foundation walls
- Best For: Below-grade walls, moisture-prone areas
Open-Cell Spray Foam
Open-cell foam can be used on basement ceilings (floor above) to insulate while maintaining access to utilities. It provides good thermal performance at a lower cost but requires a separate vapor barrier in basement applications.
Basement Applications
Foundation Walls
Insulate concrete or block walls from the inside to control temperature and prevent condensation.
Rim Joist/Band Board
Critical air sealing location where the foundation meets the floor framing above.
Basement Ceiling
Insulate between joists if keeping the basement unconditioned or for sound dampening.
Finished Basements
Create comfortable living space with proper insulation behind finished walls.
Oklahoma Code Requirements
The 2021 IECC requires basement wall insulation in Climate Zone 3. Requirements vary based on whether the basement is conditioned space:
Spray foam typically exceeds these minimums easily, providing better comfort and energy savings than code-minimum construction.