Spray Foam Insulation
When you install spray foam insulation, you'll find that you'll spend less on your energy bill, and the benefits of having a better-insulated home are numerous. First and foremost, the foam will create an air seal, stopping any drafts and air movement. Insulation foam can also help solve the problem of condensation on the walls, which occurs when there's a big temperature difference between the interior and exterior of your home.
The process involves the use of a specialized hose to spray the foam into an area. This usually involves a crawl space, attic, or uncovered walls. In new construction, spray foam can also be applied to concrete block walls or rim joists. A foam insulation crew uses a rig equipped with an electrical supply to ensure the right amount of foam is sprayed in the right spot.
However, spray foam is not the best choice for all projects. It has the potential to release toxic chemicals into the air. These chemicals can easily get into a new home and can cause health issues. For this reason, it is best left to a professional. Some manufacturers of the foam only sell to trained technicians.
There are two main types of spray foam insulation kits: open-cell and closed-cell. The open-cell foam has a lower R-value than closed-cell foam but is cheaper. However, open-cell spray foam is more susceptible to absorbing moisture than closed-cell foam. This means that it may be necessary to install a vapor barrier on the inside of the foam. In addition, open-cell spray foam insulation provides R-13 per inch, while closed-cell spray foam insulation produces R-19 per two-by-four-inch wall. During the application process, open-cell spray foam insulation may expand up to three inches. This makes it difficult to apply additional coats.
When installing spray foam insulation, the thickness should depend on the climate you live in. In milder climates, you may only need to install 3/4 to three inches of insulation. Typically, two inches of insulation is needed on the walls and three inches on the roof. These two-inch thicknesses meet the minimum requirements of the energy code (R-13), but for extreme climates, you'll need more. In Canada, for example, Passive Houses require R-40 insulating material.
If you'd rather not install spray foam insulation yourself, you can call a professional insulation contractor to install it for you. A professional will know how to properly install the particular brand of spray foam insulation and will use a spray rig that's been specifically designed for the project. The cost of labor is typically between $50 and $100 per hour. While the cost of hiring an insulation contractor will vary, the price is typically much lower than hiring a general contractor to install the same insulation in your home.
Using spray foam insulation for your home is a great way to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. The pros at Ecotelligent Homes are certified in installing this type of insulation for homes in the Metro Detroit area. They can also provide a home energy audit so that you can choose the best type of insulation for your home. If you probably want to get more enlightened on this topic, then click on this related post: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_insulation.