Spray Foam Insulation and Its Benefits

Whether looking to insulate a new building or retrofit an old one, homeowners are finding spray polyurethane or SPF foam an increasingly viable option. Essentially a spray applied plastic; It can form continuous insulation as well as a complete air-seal barrier on walls, corners and all contoured surfaces. In this process, the unique liquid contents are mixed and chemically react together rapidly to expand on contact and form the foam to provide the necessary seal and moisture barrier. This form of insulation is highly preferred not only for its extremely commendable resistance to heat transfer, but also for its exceptional ability to reduce unwanted air infiltration through joints, cracks, or seams.

SPF types

Spray foam insulation is mainly of three types and is used for specific purposes. They are-

• High density SPF that is used efficiently for exterior and roofing applications.
• Medium density SPF used primarily for interior cavity filling, continuous insulation, and unvented attic applications.
• Low density SPF is best used for unvented attic applications and interior cavity fillers.

Each type has its own unique advantages and typically an SPF contractor takes into account the building, climate, project, budget, etc. and suggests the best option to choose. Apart from the structure of the foam, its method of delivery and installation also plays a crucial role. It is also of three types i.e. high pressure and low pressure, two component foam and insulating foam sealant.

Advantages of SPF

While each type of SPF has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, there are some common benefits and advantages to choosing this method, especially over fiberglass as the insulation medium. Some of its key advantages are highlighted below:

• powerful insulator

Due to its expansive nature, SPF insulation is much more effective than other types of insulation and effectively seals all nooks and crannies. With it, you have the security of not being exposed. The method’s strength value, which is its ability to provide a tight seal, is the best on the market in R-6.

• Lower energy costs

Due to its high efficiency as an insulator, it allows the property and the owner to save significantly on their energy bills. In contrast to other methods that save around 30% on energy bills on average, SPF insulation is known to reduce energy bills by 50% or more.

• hermetic seal

A big reason for mountainous energy bills is air leaks. However, no method takes better care of it than SPF. They can easily seal any hole or crack in the smallest and darkest places. Its airtight seal is so powerful that studies suggest it is 24 times less permeable than any other type of insulation to air infiltration.

• moisture barrier

Any hole or crack in the walls or other places not only allows air, but also moisture and water to get inside the house. With their known potential to cause damage, it is imperative to keep them at bay. Being impervious to water, SPF not only fantastically protects your attic and basement from potential moisture and leaks, but in the event of flooding for any reason, SPF does not absorb moisture or water like other materials. This impermeability to water helps and protects any living space.

• deters mold

SPF is made up of inert polymers that block all possible food sources for mold or bacteria. Thus, mold and mildew cannot thrive and the house is insulated against them. The closed cell SP is better in this trait than the open cell SPF.

• Long useful life

The inert polymer of SPFs makes it possible for them to have an indefinite useful life. Therefore, homeowners and businesses are not required to re-insulate for years. Once installed, it can last up to 20 years or more with optimal performance.