Keep Your Home Warmer With Spray Foam Insulation
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There are lots of reasons to use spray foam insulation in your home. One is that there is no other insulation that seals as completely. Owens Corning pink fiberglass batt insulation is a thing of the past. Today's spray foam insulations (spray polyurethane foam, SPF) have a much higher R-value per inch. It's especially popular as an attic insulation. Spray foam insulation expands 100 times it's original volume. Spray foam insulation will give a superior wind and air tight seal where ever it is used. It will expand and contract as the house does. Here's another reason why it's so popular, spray foam insulation will no settle or sag or shrink.
The only downside for many is the initial cost of residential spray foam insulation. It can cost you three times more than traditional insulation but, it will save you 30% on your energy bills.
There are two different types of residential foam insulation. This is important to know as it effects where in your home you should use it. One type of spray foam insulation is open-cell, or isocyanurate. The other type is closed cell, or polyurethane.
If you're planning on applying residential foam insulation onto an attic ceiling (under a roof) be aware that you need to use the open-cell, or isocyanurate insulation. The attic is where air and moisture both leave your home. Open-cell spray foam insulation will allow moisture to escape.
If you are building a new home it's a perfect time to use spray foam insulation. In the walls of your home you would want to use polyurethane closed cell spray foam. Closed foam has a higher R-value than does open-cell spray foam insulation. Although closed SPF is more expensive than open-cell it gives twice the R-value of open-cell.
If you are do-it-yourself type you can spray foam insulation yourself. You can buy kits or rent equipment. Spray insulation is actually two chemicals that come separate that come together when sprayed through the nozzle. You'll need to carefully follow manufacturers instructions regarding installation and make sure you wear protective clothing, eye protection and the proper breathing apparatus. While once installed polyurethane foam is safe and does not release toxic gas those who apply it could be exposed to fumes.
If you're considering using expanding foam insulation in your home talk with experts. Do your homework. Some R-values are based on certain areas of the country and may not apply to where you live.
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