Expert: Dave Johnson - 4/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: I live in upstate, NY, and I have a p.t. foundation and we want to attach a new basement to that and add 3 bedrooms, hallway, master bath and WIC above it.  1.) Is it easy to connect the existing p.t. basement to a foam insulation basement (ICF)?  2.) Plus, what is your opinion regarding baseboard heating vs. radiant flooring? 3.) We also have a tin roof and want to know what to put underneath it to prevent condensation?

ANSWER: Hi Cisco,
It will be easy to attach the icf's to the wood foundation, but you'll want to seal at the joint with something. Maybe some spray foam or silicone.
Definitely use radiant heat, its the best!!
As far as the metal roof, I usually use either heavy felt paper
or ice and water shield under the roofing. AND, make sure the attic is well insulated and vented.

Best of luck and if you need more, mail me again....

Dave

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your answers, Dave.  I would like to hear why radiant heat is the best.  I keep getting mixed reviews.  Is it true that if you change the temp. it takes 1-2 days until it will go to that temp? I do know that it costs more initially but I have been told that even though it is more efficient it will run me more $ than baseboard heating (gas bill wise)...is that true?  Plus, I planned on putting carpet down....does that defeat the purpose of radiant heat?
Again, thanks for your help!!


Answer
Hi Cisco,
I just got back on-linr, been down for several days!!
Radiant heat is more evenly distributed throughout the house, (same temp in the corners as it is in the middle of the room)
No excessive heat at ceiling level, temp stays consistent at all levels.
It will not cost more to use radiant.
As far as carpet goes, there are some carpets that won't "muffle" the heat... check with your flooring pro, tell him you may use radiant and which flooring you should use.

FYI
I live in central Maine, in a 1680 s.f. house/full cellar/storey and a half and use radiant heat. Last 12 months I used less that 600 gallons of fuel.

Dave