July 15, 2020 Spray Foam Insulation in the Building Industry

Why spray foam insulation is making waves and stealing the limelight in the building industry.

Although spray foam insulation has been in use since the early 1940s, the last three decades have seen an explosion in its applications due to its continual product innovation and its ability to stay current with the modern building codes.

One feature that makes spray foam insulation steal the limelight is its energy-saving properties. According to industry sources, up to 40% of a building’s energy is lost through air infiltration.

But not with the spray foam insulation. With an R-Value of 6 to 7 per inch—the highest among all the alternative insulation options, spray foam insulation does a stellar job at trapping heat and keeping it from escaping the house. In this post, we’ll look at the various reasons why spray foam insulation is making waves in the building industry.

1. It’s a Powerful Insulator

Spray foam’s air sealing properties are what makes it superior to fiberglass insulation and other insulation options out there.

This powerful insulator has the unique ability to get into seams, cracks, crevices, and voids. Once the foam is applied into the cracks, it expands and dries, sealing all the air escape points. Thus, spray foam helps to maintain the interior temperature of the building it encloses.

2. Saves Costs in the Long Run

One of the cons of spray foam insulation is that it’s more expensive than fiberglass or cellulose. However, in the long-run, spray foam is a cost-effective option.

Sure, you’ll incur higher upfront costs if you opt for the spray foam insulation. But this insulation is energy efficient. So much that homeowners can offset the cost they paid for it within 5 years in energy-saving bills.

The spray foam insulation cost depends on the number of square feet you’ll need to cover. But on average, it costs between $0.44 and $0.65 per board foot for the open-cell insulation and $0.90 to $1.50 per board foot for the closed-cell insulation option.

3. It’s Stronger and More Durable

Spray foam insulation makes structures up to 250% stronger. The hardness and density of the foam can add structural integrity to the walls where the foam is applied.

Plus it lasts a lifetime. Traditional insulation can lose its effectiveness over time. But spray foam is made of tough materials—polyurethane and isocyanate, that have been proven to stand the test of time. This insulator lasts 80+ years and doesn’t degrade or lose shape.

4. No More Pollen & Allergens into Your Buildings

One of the benefits of spray foam insulation is that it seals cracks and crevices, preventing pollen and allergens from getting through the walls. Spray foam also prevents condensation that leads to mold growth, thus also helps to improve the indoor air quality.

Since pests can’t eat through the foam, fewer pests mean fewer allergens in your ductwork. Reducing the number of allergens that get into your house is a good health precaution for those suffering from allergies and respiratory disorders.

5. Noise Reduction

Spray foam insulation has impeccable soundproofing properties, which might come in handy if your neighbors are party lovers. Once installed, the insulation soundproofs your wall by absorbing sound waves so you’ll have a serene atmosphere free of any external interferences.

Have you installed spray foam insulation into your buildings? If so, what are your experiences? Share with us in the comments section below.

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