Spray foam insulation is one of the most effective ways to both insulate and air seal Central Virginia homes. However, some of our customers have recently expressed concerns to us about installing spray foam insulation for a few different reasons.
At Responsible House, we’re building science experts committed to providing safe and durable insulation solutions to homes throughout our community. We believe that spray foam insulation is among the best choices for homes, so today we’re taking some of the top misconceptions about spray foam insulation and providing some insight on the truth behind the product.
1. MYTH: Spray Foam Won’t Seal Air Leaks
Spray foam insulation is made from a foam solution that’s created when polyurethane and isocyanate are combined. As it cures, the foam will expand over 30-60 times its size, effectively filling the nooks and crannies found throughout your home. When installed correctly, spray foam insulation is one of the best air sealants on the market today.
At Responsible House, we can pinpoint exactly where air leaks are present in your home with blower door testing and our extensive building science knowledge. Our professional spray foam insulation will leave your home feeling more comfortable and increase its energy efficiency.
2. MYTH: Spray Foam is Too Dangerous to Use in a Home
As we mentioned above, spray foam is made from chemicals. During the curing process spray foam will release gasses that can be harmful to your health and requires the installer to wear full protective gear. However, once the curing process is complete, all residents of your home are safe from spray foam off-gassing.
The best way to ensure your safety during spray foam insulation installation is to work with a knowledgeable and experienced contractor, like Responsible House. We take all of the necessary safety protocols and always recommend that you leave your home for 24 hours after we finish installing spray foam in your home.
3. MYTH: Spray Foam Will Damage a Home
Some homeowners worry that because spray foam insulation is rigid and long-lasting it will cause damage to their home’s structure. In truth, however, spray foam will actually strengthen your building envelope and provide excellent protection from the outside elements.
At Responsible House, we specialize in installing spray foam insulation in vulnerable areas found in a home, like attics and crawl spaces. As an effective moisture barrier, spray foam keeps these areas protected from flood and water damage, which can lead to wood rot and costly structural repairs.
4. MYTH: Spray Foam Will Make a Home Too Tight
Ventilation is crucial when effectively air sealing with spray foam insulation. While it may seem counterintuitive, without proper ventilation, dust, moisture, and pollutants can build up inside your home.
When you install spray foam insulation with Responsible House, we’ll ensure that your home has adequate ventilation to ensure your family’s safety, like properly functioning bathroom fans and range hoods. As a part of our indoor air quality solutions, we can even install energy recovery ventilation systems, or ERVs, that will mechanically bring fresh air into your home while minimizing energy loss.
5. MYTH: All Spray Foam Insulation is the Same
There are two main types of spray foam insulation, closed-cell and open-cell, and each one has a best practice for installation. Closed-cell spray foam is dense and rigid, making it a good choice for areas that need added moisture control. Open-cell spray foam is more malleable and soft, making it a good choice for hard to reach areas of a home.
At Responsible House, we can help determine which type of spray foam insulation is best for your home’s specific needs during an in-home consultation.
Get Professional Spray Foam Insulation Installation with Responsible House
We’ve been in the home building business since 1995, and have helped our community make their homes more comfortable, efficient, and healthy. Our extensive background and building science knowledge equip our team to find reliable solutions that cater to homes in Waynesboro, Charlottesville, Staunton, Harrisonburg, and the surrounding areas. If you think spray foam insulation is a good option for your home, reach out to our team today.