How to Properly Insulate the Floor in a Wooden House on Screw Piles

Insulating the floor in a wooden house built on screw piles is an important process. Proper thermal insulation will help maintain a comfortable indoor climate, reduce heating costs, and extend the lifespan of the structure. In this article, we'll cover the main steps of floor insulation and recommended materials.

Why insulate a floor?

Floor insulation is necessary for several reasons:

• Heat retention: Effective thermal insulation helps minimize heat loss during the cold season.

• Comfort: An insulated floor creates a cozy atmosphere, especially in the winter months.

• Energy savings: Proper thermal insulation reduces heating costs.

• Condensation prevention: Insulation helps prevent moisture buildup, which protects wooden structures from rotting.

Insulation Materials

Choosing insulation is key. Let's look at several popular options:

• Mineral wool: Retains heat well and is fire resistant. It's important to use a vapor barrier film to prevent moisture ingress.

• Foam: A lightweight and inexpensive material. It has excellent thermal insulation properties but requires protection from mechanical damage.

• Ecowool: An environmentally friendly material made from recycled paper. It provides good thermal insulation and sound absorption.

• Polyurethane foam: A highly effective insulation material applied as foam. It is used for complex structures and provides unrivaled thermal insulation.

Floor Insulation Stages

The insulation process can be divided into several key steps:

1. Subfloor Preparation

Before starting work, prepare the surface. Ensure the floors are clean and dry. Remove all debris and old coverings.

2. Installing the Vapor Barrier

The vapor barrier protects the insulation from moisture. To do this, use a special film that is laid on the pre-prepared floor. Trim it to cover the entire area.

3. Install the insulation

Now it's time to install the chosen insulation. If you're using mineral wool or ecowool, make sure it fills all spaces tightly to avoid gaps.

4. Install the protective layer

After installing the insulation, install the protective layer. This can be plywood or another durable material that will protect the insulation from mechanical damage.

5. Check the ventilation

Make sure there is adequate ventilation under the floor. This will prevent moisture accumulation and protect the wooden structures from rotting.

Recommendations for choosing materials

When choosing insulation materials, consider the following recommendations:

• Choose insulation with good thermal insulation properties.

• Pay attention to humidity: some materials are sensitive to moisture and require additional protection.

• Compare prices and specifications of different insulation materials to choose the best option.

• Check for certificates and the health safety of the materials.

Common Mistakes When Insulating Floors

Avoiding mistakes is the key to high-quality insulation. Here are some typical pitfalls:

• Incorrect insulation selection: using low-quality materials or materials unsuitable for the given type of structure.

• Skipping the vapor barrier: this can lead to condensation and damage to the insulation.

• Insufficient ventilation: lack of air circulation can lead to wood rot.

Insulating the floor of a wooden house on screw piles is an important process that requires careful attention and the selection of the right materials. By following these recommendations, you can create a comfortable and warm space that will serve you for many years to come.