INSTALL GUIDES: Basement Walls Insulation

This guide covers six ways to install SmartSHIELD reflective insulation in a basement, from a single layer between studs to a full setup with furring and drywall. SmartSHIELD acts as insulation and vapor barrier in one, which matters in a below-grade space prone to moisture.

Equipment Checklist

Materials:

• SmartSHIELD 10MM, SmartSHIELD 5MM, SmartSHIELD 1/4 Inch, SmartSHIELD 20MM or the Single Bubble Reflective Insulation, Double Bubble Reflective Insulation
• SmartTAPE reflective foil tape: For sealing seams.
• Double-sided tape: For attaching SmartSHIELD to cement walls and temporary hold.

Tools:

• Utility knife
• Staple gun or screw gun
• Measuring tape

Before You Start

1. Check for water intrusion, leaks, or active moisture. Fix any drainage issues before insulating.
2. Confirm your stud spacing so you can pick the right roll width.
3. Plan your air gap. Reflective insulation needs at least a 1 inch air space to perform.

Installation Methods 

Method 1: Between Studs (Single Layer)

Best for: the simplest single-layer job on a framed basement wall.

1. Staple or screw one layer of SmartSHIELD between the studs, sized to your stud spacing.
2. Seal seams with SmartTAPE.

Method 2: Below Studs (Single Layer)

Best for: a quick continuous layer over a framed wall.

1. Staple or screw SmartSHIELD to the room-facing side of the studs.
2. Seal seams with SmartTAPE.

Method 3: Two Layers, One Between and One Below Studs

Best for: maximum thermal performance on a framed wall.

1. Staple or screw one layer of SmartSHIELD between the studs.
2. Staple or screw a larger roll (SmartSHIELD 10MM or SmartSHIELD 20MM) to the room-facing side of the studs.
3. Seal all seams with SmartTAPE.

Method 4: One Layer Below Studs Plus Drywall

Best for: a finished basement wall with a single insulation layer.

1. Staple, screw, or use double-sided tape to place SmartSHIELD on the room-facing side of the studs.
2. Push the insulation into the cavity to create a 1 inch or more air gap.
3. Attach drywall.
4. Seal seams with SmartTAPE before drywalling.

Method 5: Direct on Cement Wall, Below Studs Plus Drywall

Best for: the fullest below-grade setup with a direct vapor barrier on the foundation.

1. Use double-sided tape to attach SmartSHIELD directly to the cement wall.
2. Seal seams with SmartTAPE.
3. Staple, screw, or use double-sided tape to place a second layer of SmartSHIELD on the room-facing side of the studs.
4. Push that layer into the cavity to create a 1 inch or more air gap.
5. Attach drywall.

Method 6: Two Layers with Furring Strip and Drywall

Best for: the most complete setup for a finished basement.

1. Staple or screw one layer of SmartSHIELD between the studs.
2. Staple or screw a larger roll (SmartSHIELD 10MM or SmartSHIELD 20MM) to the room-facing side of the studs.
3. Attach a 1 inch furring strip (lathe board) through the insulation into the stud.
4. Attach drywall to the furring strips.
5. Seal all seams with SmartTAPE.

Quick Tips

• Fix any water or drainage problems before you insulate. Insulation won't solve a leak.
• Always leave an air gap of at least 1 inch. Reflective insulation needs it to perform.
• Seal every seam with SmartTAPE.
• Adding drywall is no problem. SmartSHIELD compresses cleanly between the drywall and stud.

Need Help Choosing?

Browse the SmartSHIELD collection or call us at (786) 202-0704 for sizing and contractor pricing.