I have an Amish prefab cabin that's built on skids and resting on a pier and beam foundation. It's located in a cold climate, and while the builders did add 2 inches of foam board insulation under the floor giving a total R-value of 10, I'm worried that's not going to cut it. Unfortunately, I can't access the underside for more insulation due to the design and lack of crawlspace.
I'm considering removing the subfloor to get to the insulation so I can raise the floor a few inches and add more insulation. I'm unsure whether I should just stack more foam board or replace the existing insulation entirely. I'm also open to using spray foam if needed.
Ideally, I want it to step up from a space around the door to keep the original height, which could also serve as a nice area to take shoes off.
Would I need a timber frame on top of the current floor to make this work? Is this even feasible? I'm really new to this kind of project and could use some guidance!
4 Answers
First off, how much insulation is currently under your floor? If it's just 2 inches of foam, you might be able to layer more insulation on top without much hassle. There are foam insulation boards designed to handle compression, so stacking them could be a solid option. Just make sure to frame up a step for the door, and you'll be good!
You mentioned your total R-value is 10, but in your area, they recommend 20-25. It might be a good plan to raise the floor and add insulation. Just remember, if you're adding more layers, it's crucial to have a solid framework to support it, especially around that door step. That way, you can maximize efficiency without any structural issues!
Before diving into more work, have you considered whether your current setup is actually insufficient? It can get really cold at -20°F, but maybe check with locals who have similar cabins. They might have insights on how well their insulation performs! Just a thought—could save you some effort!
If you're really considering this upgrade, just make sure to check R-value charts to ensure you're meeting local standards for your climate. Since the crawlspace isn't an option, focus on making that raised floor as energy-efficient as possible! Good luck with the project; it sounds like a solid plan.
Great idea! I’ll ask around, but good to know what others in the area are doing.