Coello & Associates uses exterior rigid foam to insulate our foundations. Both R-5 (1") and R-10 (2") are available. Insulation requirements for the foundation are based upon the energy efficiency of the above grade home.		For above grade insulation protection, we offer
These requirements are determined by using the REScheck program, which can be found at www.energycodes.gov.

The use of exterior wall insulation is superior to the use of only interior insulation for the following reasons:

• Heat loss and thermal bridging are minimized
• Foundation walls are protected from the extremes of freeze-thaw cycles
• The potential for condensation to form on the walls is minimized
• Walls have an additional layer of protection from above and below grade moisture
• Reduced risk of mold problems often associated with the use of only interior foundation insulation
• Does not reduce the size of the interior living space
• Thermal mass of the foundation is inside of the house
• Homeowner only needs to finish areas of the basement that will be living space
  
  For more information on the benefits of exterior foundation insulation, we encourage you to read the article "Concrete Defense" found in the September 2007 issue of Green Builder Magazine.