Pole Barn Perimeter Vertical Insulation

[DBrama]

Hello

I am looking for possible undesired effects of placing XPS/EPS vertically along the mud board of a pole barn - thereby creating a thermal break for radiant floor heating. I currently plan to use 4” EPS along the mud board as a thermal break with 2” XPS underneath the slab.

My concern is that ants and/or rodents (mice, possums, etc.) may make their way into the building by being able to eat/chew/dig threw the insulation.

Anyone ever have any issues with this?

Thanks!

 

[6768rogues]

I would insulate vertically at the wall lines to below the frost depths. I have seen examples of buildings with insulation under the floor slab where frost went under the building and heaved the floor.

 

[bschwein]

I'm starting a pole barn and had this question as well as what depth one should insulate around the edges?

 

[Perrorojo]

We put a double layer of foam down below the frost line. We've done it that way in a couple different buildings. I've never had any issues. Bugs and animals don't like the closed cell foam around here.

 

[bschwein]

We put a double layer of foam down below the frost line. We've done it that way in a couple different buildings. I've never had any issues. Bugs and animals don't like the closed cell foam around here.

Do you leave the top edge exposed and flush with the concrete floor then?

 

[Perrorojo]

If you go to my user page and look in the "wood shop" photo gallery on page 3 there are some pictures. I showed on pages 3, 6 and 8 of my organizing thread.

Sent from my XT1710-02 using The Garage Journal mobile app

 

[bschwein]

thanks. Enjoyed your thread.

 

[bschwein]

Looking for options to put in the vertical insulation without digging trenches with a shovel. I was thinking about renting a trencher as I have some trench work to do outside of the barn.

I doubt it would work after the metal and girts were up due to not being able to get close enough with the machine. I was thinking about trying to do it right after the post were set but before any of the girts get put up.

thoughts?