The Research on Spray Foam Insulation Tells It All

December 11, 2014

Insulating the home for energy efficiency, energy savings, and home comfort can start in any part of the house, depending on individual needs.We often start out thinking about the attic and the roof, but insulating the basement foundation walls can also deliver great results.And when it comes to the basement, homeowners often start by considering the more traditional insulation methods that they're familiar with - like fiberglass batts or rigid insulation panels.

Homeowners who have done a little research and some shopping around, are choosing another option - its somewhat more expensive, but gaining wide popularity because it's more efficient, and delivers more product benefits than any other product or combination of products.The product is known as spray foam insulation (polyurethane foam) and has proven effective in every part of the home, from the roof and attic to the basement and foundation.

This is not a home-improvement project that should be performed as a DIY endeavor over the weekend.It's work that should be done by an expert - someone who knows how to operate the specialized equipment, and someone who understands the unique nature of the spray foam product.In fact, for maximum product performance, the spray foam, the install equipment, and the install method should be affirmed by the manufacturer's product specifications.

In recent years, research conducted by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has shown that when spray foam is used to insulate foundation walls from the inside, a good many advantages are offered over traditional insulating options.Even the basic benefits are superior to other products - like higher thermal resistance; better airtight barrier; and better resistance to moisture movement.The good news is that for long-term value, nothing quite compares.

One of the feature benefits of spray foam insulation is long-term performance.It adheres well to practically every surface and will not allow for any space between the insulation application and the foundation walls.Naturally, spray foam will not perform to its advertised potential if applied to a surface that is already damp or deteriorating.Clearly, a proper install, employing the services of a specialist, is essential in ensuring optimum product performance.

Spray foam insulation has proven itself again and again in the residential housing industry and amongst professionals in the business.The CHMC research only re-affirms the efficacy of the product.Product reliability proved to be above standard in the medium and long term; foam applications retained their original structure; adhesion was compatible with every surface; the product performed well above or below ground level; and no cracks or crevices remained.

In many applications, large and small, spray foam insulation often exceeds acceptable industry standards.And when comparisons are made, no other product, or combination of products quite compares with the performance level of the spray foam product.All things considered, the best approach for the consumer is to be informed and educated.That way, better decisions are made in terms of the best product for job, and the best contractor to do that job.