Whether your home is old or new, the number of benefits that come from using spray-foam insulation (SPF) is as expansive as the product itself.
That’s because the use of SPF results in buildings that are drier, warmer, more energy efficient, healthier and stronger.
But what exactly is spray foam insulation?
Spray-foam insulation is a form of non-toxic polyurethane that is mixed on site then sprayed into the areas to be insulated, usually the space between the floor, wall and ceiling joists. It works so well because it expands into nooks and crannies that traditional insulation just can’t reach.
There are two types of spray foam insulation, open- and closed-cell. Open-cell (so-called because of air within the cells) is a low-density foam insulation good for moisture and sound management. Closed-cell, on the other hand, is a rigid, flood-resistent material that, at around 6.2, has the highest R-value of any insulation. (R-value tells you how well a type of insulation can keep heat from leaving or entering your home. A higher R-value means better climate control and better energy efficiency for your home).
Innovative Western-Canadian construction company Impact Drywall uses closed-cell spray-foam because it has many advantages over other types of insulation.
Keeps Indoors Comfortable Year-Round
Because spray-foam insulation resists heat transfer and seals gaps, it prevents hot and cold air, vapor and moisture from penetrating into a building’s interior. The result is a more consistently comfortable indoor space.
Saves Energy
Up to 40 percent of a building’s energy is lost due to air filtration. Spray-foam insulation can reduce home heating and cooling costs by minimizing air leaks from walls and roofs.
Spray-foam insulation can reduce home heating & cooling costs.
Increases Property Value
Strengthens Structures
The rigidity of closed-cell SPF, once cured, provides increased structural integrity to walls and ceilings.
Minimizes Indoor Allergens
The airtight nature of SPF reduces the amount of pollen, dust and other allergens or pollutants that enter your home.
Prevents Mold
The frequently damp and cool nature of the basement provides a perfect breeding ground for dangerous molds and bacteria. By sealing the walls, spray-foam insulation can create a drier, safer, warmer and healthier home.
Dampens Sound
SPF absorbs sound coming from outside as well as room-to-room transfer, making for a quieter home.
And just where are the best places to use spray-foam insulation?
Attics
Attics are a major source of heat transfer: Spray foam can prevent hot air from escaping through the roof during the winter months, and cold air from coming in. On the flip side, the insulation can prevent cool air from escaping in summer, and hot air from coming in.
Keep the temperature of your house consistent. Prevent cool air from escaping in the summer and hot air from coming in.
Exterior and Interior Walls
Insulating exterior walls with spray-foam provides air and moisture barriers during extreme weather events, and increases the structural strength of the house. Insulating interior walls before covering them with drywall not only prevents heat movement from warmer to cooler rooms, it provides an effective noise barrier.
Basements
Spray foam insulation can help make basements - notorious for being cold and damp - dry and comfortable.
Other places where using closed-cell SPF can make a big difference include: plumbing vents, attic hatches, wiring holes, behind knee walls, basement rim joists, windows and doors, open soffits, recessed lights, furnace flues and duct chaseways.
As the popularity of spray-foam insulation ‘expands’, it’s obvious that companies like Impact Drywall are well-placed to meet those needs. If you’re ready as a homeowner to see what a difference closed-cell SPF can make in your life, call Impact Drywall at 1.877.486.9095 for a free quote.