Spray foam is one of the most popular insulation products on the market. It is found more effective and has higher air-sealing ability than traditional insulation materials. But if you’re new to spray foam insulation technique, you might wonder what it is, how it works, and where it can be used. So, to find answers to these questions, keep reading!
What Is Spray Foam?
Spray foam also called spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is used as an insulation material. It is made from polyurethane foam or plastic and used as an alternative to traditional building insulation. It works as an air barrier material for insulating the buildings. Spray foam can be used to seal walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent air movement. This semi-solid material is versatile in nature and can be sprayed into an open cavity such as attics and crawl spaces. Other traditional insulation materials like fiberglass and cellulose are also effective but they absorb and retain moisture which results in dampness and mildew issues. But spray foam is flexible and non-porous and can be applied in cracks, gaps, and crevices without creating problems like moisture, compression, or sagging. It is effective in the insulation of the roof, loft, walls, floors, and other areas.
How does Spray Foam Work?
Spray foam insulation or foaming insulation is liquid foam that consists of two-part liquid insulation material. Spray foam insulation typically consists of isocyanate, and polyurethane which is simultaneously sprayed from a spray foam gun. When polyurethane and isocyanate come together, they chemically react and turn into a foamy substance that expands and gets harden. When it is sprayed at the application area, the material sets into an insulating layer and seals air. A licensed spray foam insulation contractor mixes the material in the right proportion and applies it through a heated hose. Once applied, the foam expands and sets in to fill the cavity and prevent air leakage. Spray foam insulation is of two types: Closed-cell spray foam Open cell spray foam.
For interior surfaces like the attic, basement wall, or wall cavities, open-cell foam insulation can be used which is cost-effective. It helps in moisture management and sound dampening. The second type is closed-cell foam insulation which offers the highest R-value and can be used for both exterior and interior applications.
Spray Foam Insulation Benefits
This material has superior insulation properties as compared to other insulation options. It can be used for both commercial and residential projects to achieve insulation for old, as well as new buildings. Besides offering insulation, energy efficiency, and comfort, spray foam also protects against mold and mildew. Here are some more benefits of spray foam that make it a smart choice for insulating your home.
- Reduce Energy Bills
As mentioned above, spray foam offers great insulation that helps at making your space energy-efficient. By preventing air leakage, it helps in lowering the pressure on the heating system which eventually results in lower utility bills. As compared to traditional insulation, spray foam seals up cracks and holes. It prevents air leaks and helps your home stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It prevents temperature fluctuations and helps in maintaining a consistent atmosphere.
- Act as Moisture Barrier
Cracks pipes and holes could seep water and harm your home’s structural integrity. Leaking pipes and cracks around windows can put your house at risk of water damage. Moisture not only causes structural damage but also carries a risk of bacteria growth. But when spray foam is applied, it covers the smallest cracks to ensure that no water goes inside your home. The moisture-resistant properties of spray foam also help in preventing mold growth.
- Noise Reduction
Spray foam insulation can enhance the overall comfort of your space. The insulation properties of spray foam help in maintaining optimal indoor temperature while sound-dampening property helps in reducing the outside traffic noise. Sounds from the street come inside the house through cracks and crevices. But when spray foam insulation is applied, the material absorbs sound waves and makes your walls sound-proofs. By minimizing noise and even preventing entry of bugs and pollen, spray foam insulation enhances your overall comfort.
