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Currently doing a reno on our basement. After roughing everything out, I have insulated the outside walls with R13 (2x4). The house has never had insulation in the basement. Should I insulate the ceiling as well? The ceiling is 2x6 and I think R19/R22 should do. Is this practical/good benefit or am I just wasting my time/money. The house is in New England, basement is dry, standard poured cement style.

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The answer to this question will help: How should I insulate my basement?

Short answer: You don't need to insulate the ceiling, but you can optionally do it if you want some sound blocking.

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Would you recommend faced or unfaced batts? I have one room which will be the kids playroom. The less noise the better. Or maybe that question is a follow up. Thx for your answer. – Jon Raynor Dec 2 '11 at 5:01
Use either. Foil faced is easier to secure between the floor joiosts. The humidity levels should not be a factor from your description, so condensation should not be a problem. What are you using for a source of heat in your rec room? If you say ventless natural gas or propane, we have an moisture issue now. – shirlock homes Dec 2 '11 at 10:09
Heat is hot water running through baseboard copper pipes. – Jon Raynor Dec 2 '11 at 14:27
Fiberglass insulation will help, but what will likely be a better sound blocker is to ensure the room's ceiling is completely sealed of holes and that the ceiling's sheetrock is hung using resilient channels. – DA01 Dec 2 '11 at 17:34

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