What Insulation to use Behind New Baseboard

ScoutRider

After a system freeze destroyed all of my beautiful cast iron baseboard, we are (sadly) installing all new fin tube baseboard.

What should I be using between the wall and the baseboard to minimize my heat loss and maximize reflectivity into the heated space?

Thank you!

hot_rod

Do you really want to space them off the wall and then come up with a trim detail on top? Most often they fasten right onto the finish wall. The insulation in the wall should give you the r-value to protect them, and keep you heat inside the home.

For a reflective surface/ insulation to be efficient, there needs to be an air space. Or it will transfer heat away via convection.

dopey27177

That sounds like you have a water heating system. if that is the case nothing will prevent a freeze up if that condition repeats itself. If you have a steam system make sure that the convectors are pitched so the water can drain out of them.

Jake

ScoutRider

dopey27177 said:

That sounds like you have a water heating system. if that is the case nothing will prevent a freeze up if that condition repeats itself. If you have a steam system make sure that the convectors are pitched so the water can drain out of them.

Jake

Yes, hot water. I know the only way to prevent a future freeze loss is to keep heat in the house! Just an inquiry as to whether or not anything behind the baseboard would amount to any benefit or not. Thanks!

hot_rod

With the cast iron type of baseboard there is a space behind so some value to a reflective insulation. It is also a convector and a radiator so some heat is transfered by radiation.
Whereas the copper fin tube is mainly a convector, the surfaces never get hot like the cast version.