The perfect basement!

[mreynolds]

I have been researching my basement to no end trying to determine the best what to finish the exterior walls below grade. There are so many options out there it is amazing. Here is what I have so far. We have heavy clay soil with poor drainage.

1. First we will be using a perimeter drain to daylight to move water away from the foundation. (sump pumps are common around here, but it seems like you are planning for a flood)

2. Next when I finish the block wall, I will add at least two parge coats.

Here is where my question lies, what is the best way to finish it off. I am considering insulating the outside walls of the basement with foam board, both as a heat transfer barrier and also another layer of waterproofing. Is this a good option in your opinion? :roll:

[Rich]

I think it's an excellent option. I have the same detail on the current house I am working on. Just make sure you use something more dense than the old bead styrofoam.

[mreynolds]

A couple more questions about this

1. Do you extend the sheeting all the way up to the top of the masonary units? And if so, how do you deal with the exterior finish of the material that is above grade?

2. What type of adhesive would you use?

[Rich]

I am stopping mine at grade level and will be applying with some type of exterior grade polyurethane adhesive. PL400 or something like that. This is only for temporary fixation until it's backfilled.

Above grade it will have stone installed directly on the concrete. We have insulation on the interior firring of the walls also with a vapor barrier.