Spray foam has been around since the 1940s, primarily used in the construction of aircraft carriers and other large structures. However, with continuous technological advancements and product innovations, foam insulation has gained significant popularity in both residential and commercial construction over the past few years. Below are three key things to know about spray foam insulation before you start insulating your home.
Due to its wide range of applications, a variety of spray foam products and kits are available on the market. While some products may boast “insulating properties,” we strongly recommend hiring a professional for this job. Insulating your home should be left to the professionals for many reasons.
One main reason is that spray foam is genuinely an art and requires a bit of chemistry to get right. Chemicals must be mixed correctly; if not, they can pull away from the surface or cause lingering odors that can lead to health problems. If not applied correctly, gaps and holes in insulation can render it less effective. If the product isn’t suited for your climate, it can be ineffective, leading to mold and mildew growth, and possibly roof rot due to improper moisture and temperature management.
When installed correctly, this insulation method offers numerous benefits. One key difference between spray foam and traditional fiberglass insulation is that spray foam can insulate and air-seal. As a result, spray foam has become a popular insulation product for both commercial and residential projects.
Air sealing with spray foam insulation helps mitigate air leakage from the building. This also reduces the risk of mold and mildew growth. When compared to fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation minimizes air infiltration and helps limit moisture from entering and escaping the home. In turn, this reduces the workload for heating and cooling systems.
A few other benefits of spray foam insulation include a reasonably quick, straightforward installation process. Once sprayed in place, the foam mixture expands and hardens. This then creates a vapor barrier and fills any small holes that might compromise the building envelope. Because this insulation application is sprayed in place, it can be easily applied to horizontal, vertical, or sloped surfaces. Since spray foam is a synthetic product, it doesn’t attract rodents or insects. Our state-of-the-art insulation also helps improve air quality by keeping out unwanted pollutants.
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Customers in Chesterfield, Richmond, Port Huron, and across Macomb, St. Clair, and Sanilac Counties in Michigan appreciate our spray foam service.