Thinking about upgrading your insulation? Spray foam may be the best answer to your problems. Spray foam is exactly what it sounds like: a foam that’s sprayed into the cavities between your walls. It expands as it dries and cures, making it ideal for hard-to-reach places and areas where strips of batting aren’t practical.
If you’re considering spray foam insulation for your next home improvement project, read on. Here’s everything you need to know about this type of insulation.
Spray foam installation
If you choose spray foam insulation, your first decision will be whether to use high- or low-density foam. Low-density foam is sprayed into cavities, where it expands rapidly to fill the space. High-density foam is slower to cure and harden, but this gives it the opportunity to move around curves, obstructions and more. High-density foam is a good choice for buildings with pipes or wires already in the cavities.
One benefit to high-density foam is that it won’t put undue pressure on the walls as it expands, unlike low-density foam. It’s best used in older buildings between the walls, whereas low-density foam is good for attic spaces.
To determine which kind of spray foam is right for you, talk to your insulation contractor.
When your contractor installs the spray foam insulation, they’ll first place a thermal barrier between the walls and the cavity. This will help prevent fires from spreading, and it will also increase the R-value of your insulation. Then the foam is sprayed into the space. It will be allowed to cure and harden. When it’s ready, you’ll notice the difference right away.
Benefits of spray foam insulation
Here’s a closer look at why, when you’re looking for the best insulation, spray foam might be the ideal option:
- Energy efficient: One of the biggest benefits of spray foam insulation is how energy efficient it is. Spray foam helps prevent heat transfer in your walls—that is, if it’s hot outside, the heat is prevented from getting in. In the winter, it prevents heat from escaping your home. This saves you money on your energy bills, since your heater and air conditioner won’t have to work overtime to keep up.
- Reduces noise: In addition to energy savings, you’ll also notice how quiet your home is. Spray foam insulation is excellent for reducing noise. If you live on a busy street, you’ll enjoy how neighborhood noises fade into the background.
- Fire resistant: In the event that a fire breaks out in or around your home, spray foam insulation can help it from spreading. The insulation and thermal barrier make it harder for fire to consume your home’s structure. Every second counts when you’re waiting for the fire department to show up.
- Moisture wicking: If you live in a humid climate, spray foam insulation will prevent moisture from spreading throughout your home—which means less opportunity for mold and mildew to grow.
Spray foam insulation is a great choice for many homeowners. If you’re interested in a quote, call 5 Star Performance Insulation, Inc. today. Let us help keep your home insulated!