An insulated basement or crawl space provides many benefits year-round, and the rim joist (or band joist) is often a focal point in energy-saving initiatives. Installing insulation at the rim ...

Homefix Q: What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected, and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I can do myself? A: Rim joists are ...

Q: Should we insulate the rim-joist cavities of a crawlspace foundation? I am a builder, and where I live the codes require insulation, but I have discovered that the insulation ...

Q: Should we insulate the rim-joist cavities of a crawlspace foundation? I am a builder, and where I live the codes require insulation, but I have discovered that the insulation causes decay and ...

Dwight BarnettHomefixQ What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I can do myself?A Rim jo… ...

Q. What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I can do myself? A. Rim joists are the ...

Question: What are rim joists, and how do you insulate them? Our home was recently inspected and the buyer asked that we pay for the repairs. Is this something I ...

Some builders refuse to insulate rim joists because of moisture problems, which lead to mold and decay. When a newly constructed home's crawlspace is fully enclosed and sealed, a lot of moisture ...

Another common place where air leaks occur is the rim joist. Use spray foam insulation to seal gaps and holes in the rim joist to improve insulation and energy efficiency.

Fortunately, insulating them is a job you can handle yourself. Cut pieces of rigid foam board that are at least 2 inches thick to fit between each floor joist and against the rim joist.

You can insulate second-floor rim joists following the same steps shown here if you happen to tear out a ceiling during remodeling. Rigid foam is the best insulation for rim joists.

Some builders refuse to insulate rim joists because of moisture problems, which lead to mold and decay. When a newly constructed home's crawlspace is fully enclosed and sealed, a lot of moisture ...