Category Archives: Residential

The Pros and Cons of Fiberglass vs Spray Foam Insulation

Choosing Between Spray Foam and Fiberglass Insulation

We know a conversation about insulation isn’t exactly the most riveting, but it’s an important decision to make. Not only does good insulation maintain the desired temperature in your home or business, but insulation also helps you save money on your energy bills. When it comes time for home or business owners to choose which type of insulation to use, spray foam and fiberglass insulation dominate the conversation. But which of the two are the better choice for your space and for your wallet? Whether it be spray foam or fiberglass, there are many questions to consider for each and making a decision can be difficult and we understand the process can seem tricky which is why we are here to help.

Spray Foam Insulation

Pros:

Spray foam is a relatively new method of insulating a home or business, but it can be used spray-foam-smallas the primary method of insulation in a new home or business, as well as supplemental insulation. Spray foam is applied by spraying a polyurethane foam into walls and ceilings, where it then expands to form an airtight seal that is also moisture tight and also protects your home or business from pests, rodents, and mold damage. One of the best attributes of spray foam insulation is its ability to seal off small crevices that other types of insulation simply cannot reach which makes it the most energy-efficient method of the two. Another good thing about spray foam insulation is the fact that it also does not break down as easily as fiberglass insulation, thus giving it a much longer lifespan.

Cons:

On the downside, spray foam insulation comes at a price that is considerably more expensive than fiberglass. Often times, spray foam is triple the price of fiberglass and sometimes it can be more. Applying spray foam insulation is also something that is not advised to do by yourself unless it is a very small job. Even professionals have struggles applying spray foam correctly because of the mess it makes. If you decide to use spray foam insulation in your home or business, make sure that your installer has adequate experience and takes the proper precautions before applying it to your walls or ceilings.

Fiberglass Insulation

Pros:

Used in 85% of American homes and businesses, fiberglass insulation is the most traditional and most common form of insulation. Fiberglass insulation works by trapping fiberglass-insulation-smallair bubbles and creating an insulating effect that escalates and slows the heat exchange between surfaces. While professional installation is required for spray foam insulation, fiberglass insulation can be installed by homeowners themselves and is the most inexpensive and DIY-friendly of the two types of insulation, but if you decide to hire professional help to install fiberglass insulation, you are in plenty of luck. Since fiberglass is so popular and has been around for such a long time, most contractors have plenty of experience with the material and won’t require much effort to clean up post-installation.

Cons:

However, due to fiberglass insulation consisting mostly of extremely fine glass fibers, the insulation material can be inhaled and even embed in the pores of your skin so if you do decide to take on this project without professional help, having all of the necessary safety equipment is of the utmost importance. Compared to spray foam insulation, fiberglass is less effective, especially in extremely cold conditions, and if you are looking to add it to an existing home or business, you may be out of luck as it is often only used as a primary method of insulation.

Making Your Decision

As you can see, there are a number of pros and cons when it comes to the age-old question of which insulation is right for your home or business. With cost being the primary factor, if you are working with a slim budget, fiberglass insulation may be the one for you. It’s easy to install, contractors are familiar with it if you decide that installing it yourself is not for you, and it’s easy on the wallet. However, if your home or business is in desperate need of effective insulation that is worth spending extra funds on, spray foam is your best bet. It may cost a lot upfront, but it will save you hundreds in the long run.

Have more questions or need a quote for your insulation project? Learn more about A+ Insulation’s Fiberglass Batted Insulation or Spray Foam Insulation services or contact us today for a FREE quote!

Why Shouldn’t You Install Your Own Installation

installing-insulationProfessional insulation services may seem expensive but attempting to DIY could be a massive mistake. This article explains why. 

Your home insulation is a key and vital part of your property. The right insulation will help ensure that your energy bills don’t go through the roof and guarantee that your home remains comfortable. 

As such insulation improvements are popular home renovation projects. However, it’s important that you approach a project like this the right way. 

It can be tempting to complete a home renovation project without outside help and that’s understandable. You might do this to try and save money, but this would be a mistake. It could end up costing you a lot more than you bargained for. 

Can I Install Insulation Myself?

Do It yourself installation is technically a possibility. However, it does depend on the type of insulation that you are using. 

For instance, you might decide to use foam spray insulation. This is a popular choice and it works quite well. It’s also easy to install but some of the other options are more complicated and will require tools that you probably don’t have. 

The Dangers of Do-it-Yourself Insulation 

You might assume that there’s no danger involved in DIY insulation however this is not the case. Insulations can be messy and certainly dangerous if they are not handled the right way. Part of the reason for this is that insulation involves different chemicals. If you breathe the fibers in, then they could harm your health. 

This is why if you use a professional contractor for your insulation you will often find that they do use protective gear. You probably don’t have gear like this around your home. 

What Is the Best Way to Install Insulation?

The best way to install insulation is always going to be using a pro and there are a few reasons for this. First, you won’t know the tricks and the important steps that insulation contractors know. As an example, when installing insulation, it’s important to maintain the right level of airflow. If you don’t do this, then it can lead to issues with condensation as well as environmental problems in your home. 

There are guides online but they might not provide all the steps that you need to follow. As well if insulation is installed incorrectly, then it could actually damage the value of your property. This is just one of the ways that a DIY job for insulation could end up costing you a lot more than paying for a professional. 

Installing home insulation might seem like an easy task but the reality is there are unseen pitfalls here that you need to be wary of. The DIY insulation materials you use might not provide the same benefits that you would get if you did invest in a professional installation completed by a trained expert. Professionals also get discounts on the materials that could cost you an absolute fortune so in the long run hiring a pro could save you a great deal. 

Your existing insulation also needs to be disposed of properly. If you have fiberglass insulation or blown-in insulation, you will need to make sure you are following the local disposal guidelines.

Installing insulation yourself might seem like a good way to save money, but there are many things you might not know how to do. The experts at A+ Insulation will make sure that your insulation is installed correctly and will help maximize your home’s energy efficiency.

Why Do You Need to Re-insulate Your Home?

Insulation being addedNo building codes for insulation minimums existed before 1980. With the many changes in the standards for insulation over the years, you still need to check your home’s insulation even if you had the property built after 1980. The standard insulation then may not meet the code today.

At A+ Insulation, we believe that insulating your home provides superior comfort. But re-insulation offers more than indoor comfort.

What You Get from Re-Insulating Your Home

Proper insulation provides thermal resistance around your home. You’ll stay cool during summer and warm during winter with the right type of insulation. Also, you don’t have to worry about heat loss or gain affecting your indoor comfort and your utility bills when you have adequate insulation.

It’s the most cost-effective way to boost the energy-efficiency of your home. Proper insulation helps you save up to 20 percent in energy bills, or up to 10 percent of your heating and cooling costs every year. One of the best ways to save further on your bill is to add insulation to the attic. The ideal R-value for this part of your home is R-38; colder climates would need an insulation level of R-49. You’ll need varying R-values throughout different parts of your home, from the walls down to the flooring.

Reduced energy also means you lower your greenhouse gas emissions, allowing you to contribute to eco-friendly efforts.

Signs Indicating Your Home Needs Re-Insulation

Apart from the age of your property, you can consider multiple factors first before you decide on re-insulating your home. These include your home’s location and its dimensions, the climate, your energy consumption, and your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC).

Here are some questions to consider before calling your insulation provider:

  • Does your home offer the comfort you need from the climate in your location?
  • Does your home get too hot in the summer?
  • Does your home become too cold in the winter?
  • Do your energy bills come higher than you expected?
  • Do some rooms on the same floor in your home have a different temperature than the others?
  • Does your upper floor become hotter in the summer but colder in the winter?
  • Do you use extra portable blankets, portable heaters, and wear an additional layer of clothing in the winter?
  • Do you turn your fans on and sleep without blankets in the summer?
  • Do you consider buying a new window A/C unit, a new furnace, or new windows for the sake of comfort?
  • Do outside noises such as lawn mowers, barking dogs, or traffic bother you even inside your home?

If you answered “yes” to all, or most, of the questions, then your home definitely needs re-insulation.

Dependable Insulation Contractor in Kansas City

Whether it’s an attic or wall insulation, we know what to do. We know the importance of getting the job done right. Our trained and certified technicians will add the right insulation in the right places to help you stay comfortable all year round. With our guidance, we’ll also help you save on energy bills.

Call us today and schedule an appointment.

Why You Should Hire an Insulation Contractor Instead of a General Contractor

Insulation contractor fixing thermal insulationOne of the things homeowners can do to save on expenses each month is to install insulation. Homeowners can hire general contractors to do this, but the results may not be as they desire.

Hence, when you need someone to take care of your insulation requirements, it is best to hire a professional insulation contractor instead of just a general contractor. The following reasons should convince you to get the right contractor for your insulation job.

General Contractors Do Not Specialize in Insulation

You’ve likely heard the phrase “jack of all trades, master of none.” It is how one can describe general contractors. Many homeowners love hiring general contractors because these people know a bit about every aspect of home improvement, repair, and maintenance.

The problem with general contractors, however, is that they do not specialize in any one skill. As such, they are often a poor choice in tackling crucial jobs like insulation. Insulation contractors in Kansas City, on the other hand, specialize in insulation and can solve any issues related to it.

Insulation Contractors Are Familiar with Important Techniques

Many companies that primarily work with insulation have accredited and certified professional energy contractors. These organizations commit their operations to installing insulation correctly. Moreover, they are knowledgeable about vapor retardants, air infiltration, ventilation, and other critical insulation-related techniques. This knowledge is necessary for projects revolving specifically around insulation.

Removing Old Insulation Safely Prevents Health Problems

Insulation Contractor replacing insulationsA primary concern in padding insulation is determining and understanding the type of insulating material. Contractors who lack the qualifications to handle toxic insulation materials, such as asbestos, can cause homeowners and other occupants of the property to get sick. Thus, it is best to hire insulation contractors, as they are qualified to handle hazardous insulation materials.

Insulation Contractors Know the Various Types of Insulation

Various types of insulation exist, and a general contractor who does not have an adequate background on insulation may think that they are all the same. Each type of insulation, however, has its advantages and disadvantages. So, hire certified insulation contractors instead. They can walk you through the differences and benefits of each type of insulation.

Homeowners Can Maximize Rebates

Some homeowners may be qualified to receive certain rebates from the government, such as federal tax credits for consumer energy efficiency. Professional insulation contractors working exclusively on insulation will know the types of insulation that may be eligible for a rebate from the government.

If you are looking for a certified and qualified insulation contractor in Kansas, don’t hesitate to turn to A+ Insulation. We have been insulating residential and commercial properties since 2004. Whether your property needs blow in blanket insulation, spray foam insulation, batted wall insulation, attic insulation, or other types, we make sure to add the right amount of insulation to give you the most protection from high-energy costs and the elements.

Moreover, you can rest assured knowing that our team of insulation technicians will arrive on schedule and work efficiently to complete the project to your satisfaction.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Why is Insulation Upgrade Essential for Your Home?

Worker installing an insulationNo matter what the temperature is outdoors, you need to make sure that you obtain the same level of comfort indoors. Upgrading your home insulation in Kansas City is necessary when your current one doesn’t retain a comfortable indoor atmosphere.

You need good heat retention before the winter comes and consistently cool rooms during summer. Lack of indoor comfort can also mean skyrocketing utility bills because the HVAC system is compensating for less-than-efficient insulation. Either way, an insulation upgrade is worth the time and money.

Blown-in insulation is rated to last 50+ years, so undertaking a project now will give you a lifetime of comfort in your home. But before you earmark a portion of your yearly budget for insulation, it’s best to do an energy audit first to know whether you need an upgrade or a total replacement.

Pinpointing the Problem

Knowing that your insulation has a problem is one thing. Knowing the location or depth of the problem is another. That’s why you need an energy auditor to come by, and do an evaluation. An audit can reveal your usage pattern, where your energy bills are going, and provide ideas on how to make your house more efficient. Your auditor will also educate you about indoor air quality in your home, and if you need to improve your house’s ventilation capabilities.

Energy audits usually come with an insulation service request, so don’t worry about missing out on important pre-project details.

Knowing About R-Value

R-value is a common characteristic of insulation materials. It provides information about the durability of the material, how well it can hold up against heat penetration, and how thick it is. A higher R-value means better insulation and more expensive.

Contractor installing the proper insulationRest assured that your contractor will help you get to know the R-value of each insulation material. The climate in your area is the primary determinant of the material, but your contractor will also keep your preferred budget in mind when recommending insulation foam.

Your Insulation Options

Once you’re sure that you need an insulation upgrade or replacement, you’ll move on to your options. And while there are several characteristics you need to know, you’ll mainly choose between the foam materials.

Fiberglass – This material comes in rolls, blankets or batts. Some fiberglass insulation also comes as loose fill. (Pros: inexpensive, easy installation, low R-value; Cons: vulnerable to moisture, requires special installation equipment)

Polyurethane foam – Available in low- and high-density variants, polyurethane foam is made of furniture stuffing or bedding. It’s a common insulation material, which you can spray or inject. (Pros: inexpensive, preferred material for tight spaces, good R-value; Cons: toxic for the installer, requires special installation equipment)

Cellulose – Made of recycled paper and needs borate treatment to be fire-retardant. (Pros: cheap, easy to install, good R-value; Cons: takes time to settle, subject to moisture, requires special equipment)

There are other kinds of insulation materials, like reflective insulation and foam board, but contractors rarely recommend them to homeowners. As for the costs, there are tools available online that can provide a rough estimate of the expenses.

At A+ Insulation, we treat your home like our home. So we don’t just help you save money, our insulation technicians will pick the right materials, meet local and building codes on energy efficiency, and perform diligent, efficient work to ensure indoor comfort all year round.

Call us today to schedule a free, no-obligation inspection and estimate.

Unseen Risks: Could Your Attic Insulation Be Harming Your Health?

Asbestos roof designOld houses hold a nostalgic appeal for their architectural features unique to a bygone era. But the aesthetic could come at a cost: dated structures have a higher chance of containing harmful materials like asbestos.

Asbestos dates back to ancient Rome, where it was used in building construction. The practice continued to modern times where it was widely used in US house construction during the post-war manufacturing boom. It was a popular manufacturing material then because it was inexpensive and fire-retardant. It could also store heat, maintain dryness in damp areas, and keep cement strong.

It’s not all upsides to this building material, though. It has its dark side, as well.

The Dangers of Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos could lead to health complications like asbestosis and lung cancer. Detecting the material is difficult, however, because its fibers are microscopic. People cannot see, smell, or taste them, so it’s easy to unwittingly inhale or swallow the dust. Furthermore, exposure to asbestos has no immediate symptoms; an asbestos-related illness may take about 20-50 years to develop.

Until the formal ban of the deadly mineral in 1999, asbestos was present in about 50% of all residential properties.

Adding to the complication is the fact that asbestos fibers are difficult to destroy. Once they enter the body, they’re difficult to break down. While some of the fibers may stay in the nose and throat where it is still possible to remove them, others can make their way to the lungs or digestive system.

Identifying Vermiculite Attic Insulation

Workers installing Asbestos InsulationAsbestos fibers can lurk in various corners of your home like floor tiles and water pipes. Sometimes, you might even find thousands of loose particles of asbestos inside walls or beneath attic floorboards. That’s why it helps to identify whether your attic insulation is a secret haven of the dangerous mineral.

The main source of asbestos danger comes from vermiculite insulation, a pellet-like mineral. While not all vermiculite poses a health risk, those that come from the Libby mine are risky because they contain tremolite, a mineral similar to asbestos.

Here are some signs to look out for to identify whether your property contains asbestos:

  • Specific colors – Vermiculite insulation has a gray-brown or silver-gold color.
  • Rough textures – The asbestos will have a piano-like appearance as a result of the particle puffing up.
  • Flat appearance – Unlike loose-fill fiberglass insulation that looks fluffy, asbestos with insulation looks firm and flat.

Dealing with Asbestos Insulation

Any disturbance can release asbestos fibers into the air. If you really need to go to your attic, you should try to limit the number and length of the trips to lessen exposure.

If you suspect the presence of asbestos in your insulation, don’t panic. Asbestos fibers usually only have the worst effect when exposed to intense concentrations on a regular basis over a long period.

To limit the spread of the harmful mineral, the Environmental Protection Agency suggests you do the following:

  • Limit the disturbance of asbestos insulation in your walls and attic
  • Avoid storing boxes and other items in places with asbestos insulation
  • Do not proceed with a do-it-yourself method of removal
  • Get in touch with a professional contractor to safely remove the asbestos from your home

Without asbestos, attic insulation has significant benefits. It will improve the comfort of your home as well as its energy efficiency. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation energy evaluation.

Besides Your Attic, Where Else Can You Apply Spray Foam Insulation in Your Home?

A house being insulatedOne of the areas that homeowners want to be insulated in their home is the attic. Applying spray foam insulation in your attic helps residents save hundreds of dollars on their monthly energy bill and prevent long-term structural damage to moisture.

While insulating your attic improves the energy efficiency and comfort of your home, you may not realize that some areas in your home can benefit from an excellent insulation product. If you’re wondering about other places in your home where you can use spray foam insulation, these areas will be perfect.

Crawlspace

A place in your house that people sometimes overlook, but can most definitely benefit from spray foam insulation is the crawlspace. This space is where you would find your home’s heating and cooling system. If moisture builds up in the crawlspace, it can compromise air quality. By insulating your crawlspace, you protect your HVAC system and help preserve the quality of air in your house.

Newly Built Rooms

A worker insulating an atticHomeowners sometimes overlook applying enough insulation on freshly built rooms or converted rooms. These new rooms may not have adequate insulation like the rest of the areas in your home. Using spray foam insulation in these rooms creates an effective air barrier that helps regulate temperature in your new space. Additionally, it keeps the temperature consistent with the rest of your house.

Entertainment or Media Rooms

When you decide to allocate a room for movie watching or music practice, you will want to keep the sound from travelling to other areas of your house. Making sure that the sound stays in these rooms is instrumental in making your home enjoyable for your family. Fortunately, you can use spray foam insulation for entertainment rooms, as this can minimize the transmission of airborne sound.

If you are looking for a professional to perform spray foam insulation in Kansas City for your crawlspace, entertainment rooms, and other areas in your house, count on A+ Insulation to get the job done. We perform a complimentary, no-obligation inspection of your home to determine which areas require insulation. Additionally, our insulation contractors will make sure to complete the project on time and budget.

Contact us today.

Attic Insulation, the Goldilocks Way: Making Your Attic Temperature ‘Just Right’

An attic being insulatedMany of us are familiar with the tale “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.” As the story goes, Goldilocks enters the cottage and tries out three bowls of porridge. One bowl was too hot and the other too cold. When Goldilocks tasted the third bowl, she remarked that the temperature is “just right.”

Attic insulation is similar to the porridge bowls of the three bears. Some home attics are too hot while others are too cold. So, how can you insulate your attic to create a suitable temperature?

Learn About the Insulation Types

If you are planning to insulate your attic, you might be inclined to have every floor joist and wall space in your attic stuffed with whatever type of insulation you find. Before you fill your attic entirely with insulation,  find out the merits of each type of insulation. Some of the common insulation types are:

  • Reflective Insulation – Used in unfinished floors, walls, or ceilings, this insulation may stop unwanted, downward heat flow.
  • Foam Board Insulation – This plastic insulation has a relatively thin profile that provides excellent insulation properties.
  • Spray Foam Insulation – Professionals spray the insulation in a particular space to fill up uninsulated areas.

Familiarize Yourself with the Climate

Glass wool insulationThe next step is to become familiar with the climate of your city. The coldest periods of Kansas City, for instance, range from late November to early February. If you find your attic not producing adequate heat during the cold months, your insulation material probably has a low R-value, which delivers inadequate insulation. Take this time to find out the R-value appropriate for your climate.

Check with Insulation Professionals

If you are not too familiar with R-values or need further help regarding the right kind of insulation that should go in your attic, do not hesitate to check in with insulations experts. They will recommend a combination of insulation types to achieve that “just right” temperature for your attic.

Performing attic insulation in Kansas City to set the right temperature for your attic can be a daunting task. Instead of doing the work yourself, it’s best that you leave it to the experienced insulation professionals of A+ Insulation. Our contractors will carry out efficient and diligent work and make sure that the project finishes on time and on budget. This way, you and your family can enjoy a temperature that even Goldilocks would approve.

Contact us today for more details about our attic insulation.

What Makes Spray Foam Good Insulation for the Winter Season?

A house being insulatedWinter season is nearing—it’s that time of the year again when seeking warmth under a blanket and a mug of hot chocolate seems like a good idea to get comfortable. But if the insulation in your home is not fully functional, hot chocolate and blankets may not be enough to keep you warm.

With the cooler months upon everyone, it’s best to ensure all insulation systems are in good condition. Apart from checking the quality of each unit, it is also important to consider costs: how can you reduce your bills despite the freezing cold?

One of the best ways to ensure your home insulation in Kansas City is in good working order is by having spray foam insulation in your home. Consider the following advantages:

Noise Reduction

Upon installation, spray foam can also reduce the noise entering the room. Exteriors facing the wall will block out most of the external noise, like loud neighbors, loud music, street traffic, and road construction. Spray foam offers a layer of insulation between rooms in the house, too.

Keeps Moisture Out

A house attic with insulationWhile mold growth is not a big issue during the winter season, there is still potential for moisture. If there are leaks in the ceilings, roof, flooring, or wall, you will run into the same problems this winter.

Fortunately, spray foam provides airtight seals that last for years, providing you with top-quality moisture barriers. These seals keep water from entering your home, sparing you from costly damages during stormy winter seasons.

Consistent Indoor Temperature

Apart from serving as a barrier that keeps out moisture and cold air, insulation also creates even temperatures throughout your home. Unless you are experiencing ductwork issues, each room of the house will receive the same amount of comfort, keeping everyone warm during the winter.

The airtight nature of spray foam also eliminates cold drafts. It gets into ever tiny corner and crack, providing high-quality seals in any room.

This coming winter, you need not be shaking due to the cold. A+ Insulation keeps you and your family warm with our foam insulation and other services.

Call us today.

How Much Can DIY Spray Foam Insulation Save You?

Spray Foam InsulationComfort is always a priority, whether you just invested in your first home, have recently moved into a new one, or are renovating your existing property. You want to make the area more comfortable for your household and your guests. One way you can do this is by investing in decent temperature regulation methods to keep you warm during winter and cool during summer.

When you’re looking for something to insulate your home efficiently, consider spray foam kits.

You might find yourself asking, “how does spray foam insulation work?” To put it simply, the product retains heat effectively, consequently lowering energy costs and utility bills. It results in comfortable and energy-efficient homes with quality insulation.

For installation, you may either use DIY spray foam insulation or look for professional installers to do the work, instead. Having said that, you need sufficient knowledge about both methods before deciding which one is more suitable for your specific needs.

Consider DIY Spray Foam Insulation Kits

Homeowners who want to install spray foam insulation themselves look into DIY spray foam kits such as Foam It Green and Tiger Foam.

Foam It Green is a DIY spray foam kit that considerably reduces your household’s heating and cooling costs. The insulating material has a high R-value — or thermal resistance determined by the type of insulation, thickness, and density; it features an R-value of 7 in a mere one-inch layer.

This type of DIY spray foam insulation does not just keep your home warm, though. It also enhances the indoor environment. It improves indoor air quality, eliminates drafts, withstands peak wind loads, and deters mold and pests. It also adds structural support and dulls sounds coming from the outside.

Simply put, Foam It Green is an all-around product that provides both air insulation and acts as a moisture barrier. As such, it saves on construction costs that you can instead use on other home maintenance or renovation-related expenses.

On the other hand, you may consider Tiger Foam’s DIY spray foam insulation products. The brand provides kits that demonstrate high performance which result in savings on monthly energy bills. Its product sprays provide good value for money, to the satisfaction of its customers.

Furthermore, Tiger Foam uses high-quality materials without CFCs, VOCs, PENTA-BDEs, and formaldehyde. You can install the insulation knowing that your family’s health is not at risk.

Whichever product you choose, you will save on the cost of hiring professional installers if you go the DIY way – this is what people find attractive about dealing with insulation on their own.

Catalog the Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam kits are often used for the walls and ceilings of new homes. DIY spray foam insulation, however, is a suitable choice if you need to seal minor cracks and gaps along walls, vents, or other house fixtures. Either way, the product provides financial advantages for your household.

Initially, spray foam insulation possibly reduces the heating and cooling costs that greatly affect your overall utility bills. Energy cost reduction is probably the most common benefit of this insulation type, but it wouldn’t hurt to point out that spray foam reduces the strain on your HVAC system, as well. It keeps warm air inside your home and prevents cold outdoor air from seeping through small cracks and into the indoor area.

On a related note, spray foam kits have no additional maintenance cost. Once you have foamed the walls, ceilings, and cracks of home, you no longer need to worry about maintenance or replacement.

Spray foam has also proven its environmental resilience. This type of insulation addresses moisture damage and can protect homes from changes in the weather, allowing you to save on repairs and weatherproofing.

Moisture damage occurs when the air condenses within the insulation — usually with the external transition from warm, moist air to cold, dry air. But since spray foam is an airtight insulation, it prevents air from entering and causing condensation, which then leads to moisture damage. Furthermore, the material stands as a weatherproofing agent that protects your home during extreme weather.

Additionally, spray foam kits contribute to overall home comfort. This type of insulation reduces outside noise and decreases the amount of dust and pollen that enter your home’s interior.

Ensure the Quality of Spray Foam Insulation Installation

Home Spray Foam InsulationDIY spray foam insulation kits offer the mentioned benefits; and, on top of the common benefits, choosing DIY lets you save on the fees that professional installers typically charge. But, there’s a downside to the DIY route: one wrong move, no matter how minor it may seem, could affect the overall functionality and efficiency of your insulation.

When you do spray foam insulation entirely by yourself, you’re risking installation mishaps. You are also more susceptible to using low-quality products. So, when you’re installing spray foam insulation, take note of the risks you must deal with.

First, the spray foam may not be thick enough. Spray foam insulation comes in two categories: open cell and closed cell, both of which insulate and act as an air barrier of the house structure. With DIY installation, however, you might miscalculate how thick the foam should be. This typically involves closed cell foam because it doesn’t completely fill the framing cavity, but it also happens with the other kind of cell foam.

Second, spray foam insulation should be airtight and if you choose DIY installation, you might miss certain air leakage areas. Even some professional installers overlook small cracks and gaps, causing the humidity in the air to interact with cold surfaces, a process which results in condensation. Consequently, you might have to later spend on otherwise preventable repairs. This likewise highlights the value of considering a reliable insulation company for your needs.

Third, you might spray too little or too much foam. Your home’s building envelope — which is a challenging concept on its own — requires proper alignment with the insulation to avoid excess heat loss and gain. You experience thermal bypass if you miss some areas, but you waste materials if you spray unnecessary extra foam.

And fourth, the material might contract and separate from the frame. When the spray foam pulls away from the base, it will lead to otherwise preventable heat loss or gain. While there is a lower risk of this happening than the first three risks, it is still a potential result of incorrect installation.

These are only some of the risks that come along with DIY installation. Having said that, think about hiring a trusted professional to do the job for you, instead.

Consider Professional Installation

Spray foam kits may be readily available for DIY installation. Nevertheless, because working with spray foam is not a walk in the park, you might want to consider working with professional installers for reliable home insulation. This way, you guarantee that the insulation is effective, cost-efficient, and provides optimum comfort in your home. In the long run, professional installation may be more cost-efficient after all, as you do away with potential damage to your property, wastage of materials, and other costly errors.

Discuss spray foam insulation concerns with your local insulation services provider to figure out exactly what your home needs.