If you have decided to install insulation in your home to increase the energy efficiency, you will have to visit a building supply store to get what you need. One of the most effective types of insulation you can buy is spray foam insulation. Here are some very useful answers to commonly asked questions about this type of insulation so that you can make an informed decision about whether it's right for your home.
How Is Spray Foam Insulation Installed? -- Unlike traditional insulation that is installed by hand, spray foam insulation is jettisoned from a trigger that is attached to a tank that holds the foam. The foam is made from polyurethane, and the instant it is sprayed, it fills every open space in your attic and rooms and becomes very hard, forming a strong and durable seal. Because the insulation is sprayed, it can be installed much quicker than traditional insulation, and it can fit into narrow and irregular spaces easier than hand-installed insulation
What Are Some Advantages of Spray Foam Insulation?-- Standard insulation is made from loose fiberglass fill material that comes in batts and rolls, which are large pieces of insulation that often leave significant gaps when they are installed--and any gaps or holes in your insulation means you will not get the full protective benefits. Spray foam insulation leaves much fewer gaps because the foam spreads into every corner and open space and fills it as it hardens. That means less air escapes from your attic, which maximises your energy savings. Another advantage of spray foam insulation is that because it seals more tightly than standard insulation, it can help dampen the transference of noise between rooms in your home. And because spray foam hardens and forms a strong shell, it is much more resistant to insects and termites that can infest your home.
What Are the Common Types of Spray Foam I Can Buy? -- Building supply stores typically sell closed and open cell foams. Closed cell foam is the more expensive of the two, and it is harder and denser than open cell foam. Closed cell foam is also water resistant. Open cell foam is less expensive than closed cell foam, weighs less and doesn't have the same level of water-resistance. If you're on a budget, open cell foam is the choice, though you will likely have to inspect your insulation for moisture.
