A quick search on Google will expose you to a variety of insulation choices; such as fibreglass and cellulose. However, none of these are as effective, or straightforward as spray foam. Generally, they work as protectors. They prohibit heat, sound, and electrical passage.
Therefore, the insulation can be used to keep your house warm, soundproof a room, or perhaps protect your electrical cables. Due to its numerous benefits, most homes are making use of it to maximize energy efficiency and comfort.
It is also worth noting that homeowners have opted to retrofit their walls, attics, and crawl spaces with the spray in a bid to fix uncomfortable room issues. They also do this to reduce the costs of the energy bills.
Therefore, read on and familiarize yourself with some crucial aspects of the spray. Also, we have highlighted some of its pros and cons, and things you should consider when installing.
A summary of what the Foam Does
There are various reasons to update or insulate your house. But why choose spray foam? Simply put, it is a premium product. If you happen to be spending a fortune on energy bills every year, the spray is a great way to fix this.
It creates a seal that keeps air from leaking in or out of your house. As a result, the room retains a constant temperature, depending on how your thermostat is set. In addition to that, your air conditioner and furnace won’t have to constantly run-saving up on energy costs.
If installed by a competent and experienced contractor, the seal should be able to prevent drafts from getting to your place. The seal works by penetrating any cranny or nook; thus, prohibiting air movement. Therefore, rather than doing the installation as a DIY project, and advancing the issue, consider getting in touch with a professional who will plaster a smile on your face due to a job well done.
Condensation occurs when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of your house is great. If your walls have thin insulation coverage, you are likely to notice some dampness on them. If the issue is not addressed accordingly, black mold will soon be an issue for you and your family. Fortunately, the spray can remedy this.
As established, the spray is a material that seals open cavities -such as ceilings, floors, and walls- from the air. The foam creates a barrier that stops the air that’s inside your house from getting into contact with the air outside. As a result, this controls the rate of condensation.
Do note that it’s also coated near electrical outlets, where walls and windows meet, and on light fixtures.
Distinguish Between Closed Cell and Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation
The spray is divided into two major categories; open and closed cell foam insulation. Nevertheless, note that both materials create an air seal when installed. However, they have their differences.
Open Cell Insulation
The open-cell spray is suitable for open cavities as it creates continuous insulation into a barn, home, or pole. In addition to that, the foam is pliable, light, and can expand up to a hundred times to fill an open space.
Some of its benefits include:
- It’s cheap, easy to install, and has other benefits such as:
- Enables easy passage of water without absorbing it
- It’s suitable for soundproofing
- Water is used as the blowing agent for the spray foam
Do note that these are but a few advantages.
Closed Foam Insulation
The closed foam insulation -or better known as two-pound foam insulation- is denser, and more durable. Due to its structural and chemical properties, it’s more versatile and is regarded as one of the best insulators in the market. When installed, it acts as a barrier, prohibiting both moisture and vapor from getting to your house. This feature makes it great for the foundation, among other areas.
Therefore, be sure to talk to your contractor regarding this so that you may expand and advance your knowledge on it. However, do note that the foam usually costs more than the open insulator, due to its unique properties and characteristics.
The Significance of Spray Foam Insulation
Some of the spray’s benefits include:
- Durability
Generally, all spray foam insulators are durable; which makes them the ideal choice of use, as opposed to other insulators. When installed by a competent contractor, the insulation should serve you for at least 50 years. This will save you from spending a fortune on re-insulating, and it will give you the comfort you need.
- Hinders Sound Waves
Spray foam can easily deflect sound waves and vibrations. This is advantageous as it decreases sound movement by soundproofing the building or muffing the excessive noises.
- Versatility
Spray foam offers a wide range of versatility as it can be used to fill any space. This gives it a higher R-value and makes it ideal for homeowners.
What to Lookout For
Now that you have familiarised yourself with the spray, there are certain things that you need to keep an eye on. For instance, it is considered best practice to get a brand that offers low global warming potential levels.
This helps you evaluate and determine the blowing agent used by the foam at its minimal level to safeguard the environment. Making use of green products will help you preserve the environment. Also, it will make the foam recyclable as well.
During the installation process, vacate the house. Spray Foam insulation consists of dangerous chemical compounds which can be dangerous to your health. Therefore, be sure to leave the house to prevent all adverse effects.
Bonus Tip
Having established that, be sure to get in touch with an agency that will plaster a smile on your face due to a job well done. Hiring the wrong team will cost you an arm and a leg in the long run, as they might advance the damages, rather than fix them.