Below Grade Walls

How much insulation is enough?

New, more stringent minimum standards for foundation wall insulation took effect in November 1998. Click here for information about Manitoba Building Code (MBC) requirements.

Remember that the MBC is only a minimum standard. Exceeding the MBC requirements for foundation wall insulation makes sense if you plan to finish your basement with a home office, extra bedroom or other living space. Additional insulation can also be a good investment if your home is built in an area with wet soil or a high water table (wet soils conduct heat away from a foundation more rapidly).

To help meet the R-2000 energy target, most R-2000 builders in Manitoba choose either RSI-3.5 (R-20) or RSI-4.2 (R-24) foundation wall insulation.