Design Considerations: Exterior Retrofit

Foundation Wall to Above-Grade Wall Transition

  1. Remove the existing siding and wall membrane to expose the exterior wall assembly. Inspect and repair framing and sheathing as needed. Expose the below-grade wall assembly. Repair concrete and waterproof membrane/dampproofing as needed.
  2. Use self-adhered membrane at the floor joist/ foundation wall to create the air barrier transition.
  3. Install below-grade wall exterior insulation with protection board over the exposed insulation above grade.
  4. Install flashing and tape it to self-adhered membrane to maintain air barrier continuity.
  5. Install vapour-permeable air barrier membrane (sheet, self-adhered, or liquid applied). Seal laps
    and penetrations, and cover the rim joists and interfaces down to the below-grade wall transition.
  6. Place rigid mineral wool insulation over the wall membrane. Use pressure-treated wood strapping or plywood over the exterior insulation aligned with the wall stud spacing where possible. Attach with screws through the insulation into the existing wall.
  7. Install exterior siding. Most cladding types are well supported by the strapping and screws. Heavy weight cladding such as stone veneer or brick may require extra support.