What is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is a mix of chemicals that create a foam. The mixture quickly expands to fill areas to insulate, seal air leaks and acts as a barrier to moisture. It provides a continuous barrier on flat surfaces and around corners, as well as, contoured surfaces.
Spray foam insulation resists heat transfer and is effective for reducing air leaks through cracks, seams and joints.
How Spray Foam Insulation is Installed
Spray foam insulation is sprayed into the wall cavity in between the wooden studs with specialized equipment.
The foam is sprayed on as a liquid, but within 2 to 10 seconds, the liquid will turn to foam and expand up to 100 times it’s original size filling every nook and cranny, sealing all gaps and permanently adhering to the stud cavity.
When Spray Foam Insulation Can Be Installed
For new construction or renovations, the insulation is installed after the windows, doors and roof systems are in, the electrical, framing and plumbing inspections are complete, and after any other electrical or mechanical system located behind the drywall is installed. It is the last installation to take place before drywall installation.
For existing homes and commercial buildings, the spray foam insulation can be installed to the attic, roof line, and sub-flooring to seal in the building. It is more cost effective to leave existing interior wall insulation in place.
Types of Spray Foam Insulation
There are two types of spray foam insulation: Closed Cell and Open Cell. There are advantages to each type and depends on the the application.
Open cell foam is also known as low-density spray foam. It has a spongy texture. It is excellent for thermal insulation and sealing.
Closed cell foam is a medium density spray foam with a higher R-value. It's tough and rigid and can be used for both interior and exterior applications.
Advantages of Spray Foam Insulation
There are several advantages to spray foam insulation. From it's excellent insulating properties to it's ability to improve indoor air quality to reducing outside noise, it is superior to other types of spray foam