Why Spray Foam?
Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation that is applied as a liquid spray and expands to fill gaps and cavities, providing a high level of thermal insulation and air sealing. It is typically made from two main components: a polyol resin and an isocyanate, which are mixed together and sprayed into a cavity or onto a surface.
Superior Insulation Properties
Spray foam has a high R-value per inch, which measures insulation effectiveness. This means it provides excellent thermal resistance, helping to maintain consistent indoor temperatures. Given the dense properties of spray foam, it requires less depth of material to provide a better R-value.
Air Sealant
Unlike traditional insulation materials, spray foam expands upon application, effectively sealing gaps and cracks. This reduces air leaks, which can significantly impact energy efficiency.
Moisture Barrier
Closed-cell spray foam acts as a moisture barrier, helping to prevent mold and mildew growth in buildings. This especially is noticeable in garages and basements.
Fire Resistance
Closed-cell spray foam does not burn, a flame can be held to the material, and it will begin to melt, but as soon as that ignition source is taken away the fire will burn out. Therefore, closed-cell spray foam will not act as an accelerant nor “fuel” for any fire that it meets. This will improve the safety factor of the material, and it will help the structure withstand a fire.
Structural Integrity
The stiff physical features of spray foam insulation offer increased structural intensity. Giving increased rigidity and strength to the walls, floors and structures using spray foam.
Rodent Repellent
Rodents and bugs often find their way into every crack and opening in a building. The expansion of the spray foam fills all empty voids and seals off any access pests that cannot penetrate. The most common pest being mice. Mice are known for ripping out insulation, creating bedding with it and even living in the wall cavity. Mice avoid this insulation, as they cannot eat it, it does not tear apart and it provides them with no bedding.
The Process
The spray foam insulation process involves the following steps:
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Mixing
The two main components, the polyol resin and the isocyanate, are mixed together in a specialized machine called a spray gun.
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Spraying
The mixed material is sprayed into the cavity or onto the surface using a spray gun.
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Expansion
The mixture expands to fill the cavity or cover the surface, filling gaps and holes.
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Curing
The foam expands and hardens over time, typically within a few minutes to an hour, depending on the type of foam and environmental conditions.
The Benefits
High R-Value
Spray foam insulation can achieve high R-values (a measure of insulation performance) compared to other types of insulation.
Moisture Resistance
Spray foam insulation is resistant to moisture and can help prevent water damage and mold growth.
Air Sealing
The foam expands to fill gaps and holes, providing a high level of air sealing to prevent air leaks and reduce heat transfer.
Durability
Spray foam insulation can last for many years without breaking down or losing its effectiveness.
Versatility
Spray foam insulation can be used in various applications, including walls, floors, ceilings, attics, crawl spaces, and more.