CENTRAL ATLANTA Blog

Why is R-value not a good indicator of spray foam performance?

R-value is not the best indicator for determining the effectiveness of spray foam insulation. While R-value has been a long-standing metric used in the insulation industry to measure thermal resistance, it is not always the best indicator of insulation performance.

Spray foam is an air barrier, meaning it resists airflow between conditioned and unconditioned spaces. Air barriers are important considerations in building science because they can improve insulation performance and indoor air quality.

Ever wonder why leaving the refrigerator door or the top of your freezer open significantly decreases its performance? The refrigerator or freezer materials have not changed, but now you have introduced air flow into the equation. As warm air moves into a cold refrigerator or freezer, it has the same effect as warm air moving into an air-conditioned home or building. The air flow impacts the climate, both inside your refrigerator and inside a building.

Another benefit of air barriers is that they help keep pollen, dust, insects, and other allergens from entering the home or building through cracks or crevices in the wall assemblies. Spray foam adheres to the walls, boards and studs of your home, creating a tight seal that limits potential intrusions.

R-value does not consider other factors that affect thermal performance such as air leakage, radiation, or convection. Spray foam insulation effectively addresses all these factors, which is why R-value is not the most important factor when considering spray foam.

Spray foam insulation provides unique benefits that go beyond R-value, making it an excellent choice for homeowners in Atlanta looking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.

Book your free insulation evaluation today with Koala Insulation of Central Atlanta or call us at (404) 994-1287 we would love the opportunity to help.