Insulation is basically ensuring that any form of energy (be it sound, light, thermal, etc.) is protected or guarded with a material so as to avoid it from being transmitted. Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation amongst a few others (like cellulose, fiberglass etc.) and it is used in houses to help save energy and provide great resistance making it a good insulator. It is comprised of two main materials which are known as polyurethane and isocyanate. These materials react with one another to form formaldehyde which is useful for repelling heat and minimize the penetration of air in joints and cracks.
Types of Spray Foam Insulation
This technique consists of two types which are opened and closed-cell spray foam insulation.
- Open-cell spray foam: They are also known as low-density spray foam which weighs about 0.5 pounds and is a very flexible hard foam. It is applicable in either high or low pressure. They are sprayed on ceilings, walls, unvented attics, and ducts. They provide high insulation, ability to block air very efficiently and low permeability for moisture.
- Close-cell spray foam: They are the opposite of the open-cell. Also known as high-density spray foam and weighs about 3 pounds. It is very heavy; therefore, it doesn’t expand as compared to the open-cell and it provides higher insulation abilities. They are seamless, thermal-resistant, and solid; therefore, they are mostly used by construction workers that require high insulation and power, exterior works, and roofing (especially for high wind seasons).
How to Install Spray Foam Insulation
- The substance is in the form of liquid which is then sprayed on the chosen area through the tip of the spray foam gun.
- Comprises of polyurethane and isocyanate which forms the hard substance on the surface area.
- The hardened substance is expanded on the area, which forms the layer of defense to seal area against air, moisture and heat.
Advantages of Spray Foam Insulation
- They are very efficient in saving energy and air infiltration.
- They help the rooftop to maintain a very low temperature which also helps to save energy.
- They help to give household items a long-span. For example, they are used on rooftops and even during the high-wind season, which increases the resilience of the building.
- They are used to effectively seal holes and cracks in buildings against unwanted air penetration.
- Efficient water resistors made up of polymer such that bacteria, molds, and mildew cannot grow.
Is Spray Foam Insulation flammable?
One thing you must understand is that insulators react to whatever form of energy is placed on them, but they react slowly. For example, if you expose an insulator to electricity, they will conduct electricity but they do this very weakly. What does this tell you about Spray Foam Insulation? They are flammable when exposed to a specific amount of heat. From research by the International Building Code, it is given that foam plastic materials from proofing foam, Styrofoam, and spray foam are all flammable. Make sure its interaction with the sun or any form of heat is kept at a minimal level so as to ensure efficiency for a longer period of time although there are a lot of regulatory laws put in place to improve the design, comfort, sustainability, and enhanced insulation.
Close-cell spray foams may also be waterproof, but the same cannot be said about open-cell spray which may be water-resistant since they can hold a specific amount of water. High-density spray foams can be considered to be more effective with its resistance to water.