At A+ Insulation, we install many kinds of home insulation. From fiberglass to cellulose to spray foam and batt style to BIBs (blow-in-blanket) to closed cell foam. We’d like to talk to you about spray foam insulation and the differences between it and other types of insulation, pros and cons, and where it makes the most sense in your home. We like to give you all of your options to help you make the best decision. Here’s a quick rundown on spray foam insulation from the insulation installation pros at A+ Insulation.
What Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Icynene spray foam insulation is an insulation and air barrier material that seals walls, floors and ceiling cavities against air movement. The biggest advantage to spray foam insulation is that besides providing a temperature barrier, it also seals out air. By creating an air barrier, it minimizes air infiltration through walls and ceilings, preventing drafts, cold spots and energy loss. By restricting outside air from entering your home and condensing, it minimizes the possibility of moisture entrapment and buildup within the walls and ceilings.
How Does Spray Foam Insulation Work?
Spray foam insulation works by expanding up to 100 times its original volume within 4-10 seconds of spraying it on. After about 24 hours, spray foam insulation is completely hardened and safely cured. It won’t shrink or sag. Because it expands, it can fill small cracks and holes around electrical wires, outlets, light fixtures, etc. The solution can be safely sprayed directly onto electrical and plumbing with no overheating or corrosion issues.
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Are There Any Harmful Emissions?
Icynene spray foams are safe for both you and the environment. Most spray foam products are water-blown, and do not emit HFCs or HCFCs. Extensive testing in North America have shown that no VOCs are detected after 30 days following installation. Because of this, spray foam is ideal for environmentally-conscious homeowners.
Does the Foam Entrap Moisture?
Icynene’s open cell spray foam insulation products are vapor permeable to allow water vapor molecules to flow through the foam. This means any moisture in the home’s concrete or lumber can escape through the insulation as the building dries out, thus eliminating moisture that could potentially cause rot or mold.
How Is Spray Foam Insulation Installed?
Icynene foam insulation is installed by fully trained, licensed insulation professionals who spray the solution into open walls, ceilings and floors. For homes that are already built, a slightly different kind of pour foam solution is used so it can be injected into small holes drilled into plaster or gypsum faced walls, or from the outside of the wall, whichever provides the easiest access.
What Makes Icynene Spray Foam Better than Traditional Types of Insulation Such as Fiberglass?
Icynene insulates and seals air out in one step. Traditional cellulose and fiberglass insulation can’t do without the use of extra sealing materials such as vapor barriers. Traditional types of insulation also leave small gaps and seams around electrical boxes or light fixtures.
Can Spray Foam Insulation Be Installed by a Homeowner?
No. Spray foam insulation is not a DIY product. A fully trained, licensed Icynene contractor must install the product. If you’d like more information about spray foam insulation, call the home insulation experts at A+ Insulation and we’ll be glad to answer any questions you have. Call us at (913) 281-2250 or (816) 268-7511.