Foam Board Insulation

Everyone wants a nice cozy and warm house during the winter days or nights, but not everyone can afford it. Not because the insulation materials would be too expensive but rather because the foam insulation contractors are overcharging from up to 200% on regular spray insulation – let’s not even mention the foam board insulation which is definitely more costly. Of course, in the long-run you’ll be benefiting because foam insulation cuts down approximately 60% of the heating and/or cooling costs. Because of this the need of having a DIY spray foam insulation kit has been growing over the past years.

When we’re talking about diy spray foam we’re talking about expanding foam insulation and we’ve already cleared the fact that expanding foam insulation is way better than foam board insulation. Not only you’ll get an increased R-factor with spray insulation and better overall insulation, you’ll also get a much more cheaper bill, less hassle and more satisfaction.

Some interesting facts about spray foam insulation

The diy spray insulation kits can be found in specialized stores and they don’t cost too much. One of the most interesting facts about SPF ( or spray foam ) is that it offers superior protection against moisture and bugs. It doesn’t provide and nutritional bonuses for insects, thus no bugs will bug you anytime soon and is better at handling moisture than foam board insulation. Moisture is your worst enemy when you’re planning how much the insulation will last, in time the regular foam insulation board can loose it’s R-value and some other insulating properties because of the moisture and other external factors. Another reason why you should stick with a do it yourself spray foam insulation kit is because nobody will handle the job better than you. No foam insulation contractor will show as much interest in your own house as you will.

The common questions which need to be asked when planning on using a do it yourself spray foam insulation kit aren’t too many – and we’ve completed a list for you to follow.

Q1: Which spray foam is best for me ?

You should know that the two most commonly used spray foam products are low-density open-cell SPF ( in some cases refered to as “1/2 pound” ) and medium-density closed-cell foam( in some cases refered to as “2 pound” ).

The low-density SPF refers to a foam insulation that usually weights between 0.4 and 0.6 ponds per cubic foot after fully cured and can expand up to 100-150 times its original volume, offering and R-value of 3.5 per inch.

The medium-density SPF refers to a closed cell insulation foam that normally weights between 1.5 and 2 pounds per cubic foot after fully cured. When sprayed it can expand to 30 or 50 times its normal volume and offers and R-value of 6 per inch.

Q2: Which one is better ?

Depending on your insulation needs, the open-cell SPF is mostly used in interior walls and atic spaces because it has good acoustic properties.

Closed cell foam insulation is best for insulating exterior walls and crawlspaces – because it has a higher moisture resistance. Additionally, the closed cell insulation doubles the rack loads on walls and adds to the structural integrity fo the building.

Q3: Is SPF a good soundproofing material ?

Yes – not the best, but it does help in a way. Both the open-cell and closed cell spray foam insulation seal the cracks reducing the noise that could travel from outside. Unfortunately, they are less effective against noises caused by vibrations.

Q4: How long can a closed cell spray polyurethane foam insulation last ?

This doesn’t usually depend on the product used, because frankly the products are made to last a lifetime it rather depends on the conditions the foam has been used, the level of moisture and other external factors. You should know that the oldest surviving SPF roof is 30 years old and in great conditions.

Q5: How do you mantain SPF insulations ?

They should be inspected semi-annually and checked for phyisical damage that could have been caused by exterior factors ( storms, tool drops, wind-driven debris and so on ). Usually, insulations are re-sprayed once every 10-15 years.