Using Spray Foam Insulation to Effectively Insulate the Basement.

February 25, 2015

The fact that spray foam insulation is the best product available is reason enough to use it for the basement. The basement is a unique space, and it poses some specific challenges - spray foam addresses those challenges and provides effective solutions in one application. The fact is, even beyond basic product attributes, spray foam achieves three objectives much better than any other product of its kind - it impedes moisture; it inhibits air movement; and it provides thermal insulation. Most residential basements have cold floors, and very often, cold walls. This is also an area that promotes moisture buildup. But most importantly, this is an area that suffers from energy loss, primarily because of poor insulation. Poor insulation leads to heat loss, inefficient performance of the HVAC unit, and in the end, costly energy bills. Solving these issues brings the indoor environment into balance, reducing energy costs and creating home comfort at the same time. To effectively insulate the basement, the space must be sealed AND insulated. That means creating an airtight area - and nothing does the job more efficiently than spray foam insulation. Expertly installed, a spray foam application completely seals up a given space: every hole, opening, gap and crack is sealed up, as well as hard-to-insulate spots. And the result is apparent - air movement is curtailed, heat loss is prevented, and moisture buildup is repressed. Spray foam insulation has become the favorite of contractors in recent years - it's the best air barrier; it's the best insulator; and it provides a superb moisture barrier - all in one application. The truth is, there's no need to have a separate vapor barrier installed. It means that condensation is dramatically reduced, which in turn averts the accumulation of mold and mildew. A good install also adds structural strength to the basement walls - it's simply the best approach for a space like the basement. The benefits of a spray foam application are noticeable. Air circulation, as well as air quality, is enhanced; HVAC equipment performs at peak; indoor home comfort is significantly improved; and energy consumption is regulated and balanced. Bottom line - when energy consumption (winter heating and summer cooling) is balanced, it translates into cost savings, and for the average homeowner, this is likely the most important outcome - just another reason to insulate the basement with spray foam. Although many industry professionals have chosen spray foam insulation as their product-of-choice, it's considered more costly than other products. But the benefits far outweigh the upfront cost (in the short-term and long-term). No other insulation product can compare - the application is maintenance free - it lasts a lifetime - and it doesn't need replacement or replenishment. If you ask a real estate agent, a home with spray foam insulation is an added value during resale. For basement walls and ceilings, spray foam is equally popular with homebuilders, renovators and contractors. At the same time, professionals agree that an expert install is required. This is an installation that requires product knowledge, special handling, and application expertise.