Insulating with spray foam is a good way to cut down on home energy costs. But before you start a project yourself, find top-rated pros near you to make sure it’s the right choice for your house.
It’s usually best left to the pros because the chemicals in spray insulation expand quickly and must be applied correctly to avoid sagging. This type of insulation is also very durable and doesn’t lose its shape over time.
Benefits
Spray insulation can significantly improve a building’s energy efficiency by eliminating drafts and sealing air leaks. The result is less work for heating and cooling systems, which in turn saves homeowners money on monthly utility bills.
It also helps prevent moisture in the attic and other areas where mold and mildew can develop. In addition, closed-cell spray foam is watertight and can resist damage from water, which can affect other types of insulation such as batts.
Spray foam is more environmentally friendly than other forms of insulation because it is made from a renewable resource (soybean oil) rather than petroleum, which is a nonrenewable resource that contributes to climate change. It also uses a blowing agent such as water or hydrogen instead of petrochemicals like HCFCs and HFCs, which have a much higher global warming potential (GWP) than carbon dioxide.
Cost
Spray insulation is typically priced by the square foot. The price varies depending on the thickness and location of the insulation. Some areas are harder to access and may require extra cost for removal or repair work.
A key advantage of spray foam is that it creates a custom airtight envelope, sealing all gaps and cracks. This significantly reduces energy loss, lowering heating and cooling costs.
Another benefit of spray insulation is its longevity. It can last for up to 80 years. This makes it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to save money and maintain the resale value of their home.
While most spray insulation contains polyurethane, there are alternatives that are made from greener materials and avoid off-gassing. Some are made from recycled paper products or use soybean oil, which is also a renewable resource. These greener options are still effective and offer comparable insulating properties to traditional spray insulation. They can be purchased for a similar cost as traditional options.
Installation
Spray insulation is sprayed onto walls, ceilings and floors, creating an airtight barrier that prevents heat loss. It can be used in new construction, or sprayed in wall and rafter spaces in remodeling projects. There are open and closed-cell options, as well as injection foam. The type chosen will depend on the building’s needs, including energy efficiency and soundproofing.
Homeowners considering spray insulation can contact a top-rated professional to receive estimates. Before the insulation installation, the area to be sprayed must be cleaned and prepped. This includes clearing away debris and covering surfaces that shouldn’t be sprayed, such as windows or flooring.
It’s best to leave spray insulation installation to the pros, as the chemicals involved are volatile and require training to use correctly. They can complete the project more quickly and neatly than a homeowner could, and they’ll know how to follow safety procedures. If the project is for a metal building, they may also be able to help the homeowner find out about rebate programs and tax credits that might be available.
Maintenance
Spray foam insulation offers many benefits, including its ability to provide a thermal barrier that helps keep energy costs down. However, like all types of insulation, it requires proper maintenance to ensure optimal performance over time.
This can be achieved by following a consistent cleaning routine, developing reliable standards, and training employees to properly operate the spray foam insulation machine. By doing so, you can avoid any costly problems down the road.
It’s important to remember that spray foam insulation is a very flammable material, so it’s necessary to use flame retardant chemicals during the installation process. These chemicals can also off-gas during the curing process, so it’s crucial to follow best practices when storing and using the equipment.
The two main components of spray foam are isocyanate and resin. The isocyanate is stored in a barrel known as the “A side,” and the resin is stored in a separate barrel called the “B side.” It’s vital to ensure that these chemicals are kept together during application so they combine into one fluid spray.
