How do I insulate a basement that's finished?

Question

I rent a basement which i found out has no insulation on the wall. I don't want to tear the wall down as I just rent the place, but I also don't want another $200 utility bill this winter if it drops to -40c again this winter. any help or suggestions would be great.

Answer 1

The best way is to blow it in , you can rent the machine to do it yourself, are have someone to do it . I don't think it would cost all that much to have it done.

Answer 2

you can build dummy walls at 2" or 4" thickness and insulate behind them, it cost very little if you split 2x4's and pack insulation, it also helps to do the floors. i did it to our 24x48 basement, it warmed there entire area

Answer 3

If the walls can be painted, this will be your cheapest solution.  Get some insulating paint additive from www.hytechsales.com and get enough for the amount of paint you would need for the area times 2.  2 coats of any paint or primer with this additive in it can increase the R value up to 36-38%.  

I used the product in our upstairs bath last year; it always was a cold room.  Put 1 coat on with the primer and 1 with a top coat.  The room was so warm that we had to shut the heat runs; it got too hot!  Or you can do as I'm doing to the downstairs bath right now, I'm putting 2 coats of primer on with the additive and then 1 coat of paint.

The additive gives the wall a slightly sueded finish and takes the "sheen" of the paint down one level.  If you start with semi-gloss, it will take it down to flat.  The additive has a bunch of benefits such as being fire retardant, insect resistant, makes the paint more durable and helps absorb sound.  

I live in an old double plank house and the only way to increase the insulation in the sidewalls is to rip the siding off, insulate and put new siding on.  Needless to say, THAT is not budget friendly!

Also, caulk and repair any areas that would allow air seepage prior to painting.  Just caulking the window in this house brought the heating bills down about 20% the following winter.  

Answer 4

the only way is to tear it down and insulate it. you dont want a $200 utility bill. You will end up paying thousands later if you dont insulate it now