LOUISVILLE Blog

Your Guide To Spray Foam Insulation

You have many options when it comes to insulating your home or commercial structure. One of the most popular is spray foam insulation, which is sprayed directly into a cavity, where it expands and provides a tight seal against air and moisture. 

What Is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation is made of two materials, a polyol resin and isocyanate. When these materials come together, they produce a chemical reaction, which creates a foam. Using special applicator tools, the foam is sprayed into open spaces, like attics, crawl spaces, and rim joists. There it expands to fill the entirety of the space and hardens within several seconds to create a strong seal.

This insulation comes in two types. The closed-cell variety contains closed cells that compress together and prevent air and moisture from getting in; this is ideal for average and larger-sized cavities. The open-cell type has a bit more space between the cells, which creates a looser, spongier fill; this is better suited to small cracks and tight spaces where air typically escapes. 

What Are The Benefits?

Because spray foam expands and fits into the spaces where it is applied, it offers enhanced protection against air, water, and extreme temperatures. This makes it easier to keep your home comfortable, and you won't need to use your furnace and air conditioner as frequently. With less use comes lower heating and cooling costs, as well as less HVAC wear and tear, both of which will save you money.

It also prevents condensation from forming inside your walls. Condensation can damage the structure of the wall and encourage mold growth. This isn't an issue when you apply spray foam.

Another benefit is the prevention of ice dams. Ice dams form when heat from the home rises and melts ice and snow on the roof. The water runs down to the edge of the roof, where it is colder, and refreezes there, forming a ridge that blocks further water runoff. The water then backs up and can get under your roof and into your attic. Spray foam in the roof deck locks in heat from the home before it has a chance to reach the roof and melt snow and ice. 

Spray foam is beneficial in both residential and commercial structures. Koala Insulation of Louisville provides a variety of insulation solutions, including spray foam, blown-in, and batt varieties, as well as solar attic fan installation and insulation removal. We work with you to find the best solution to fit within your budget.  Call Koala today or book online and schedule your free insulation inspection and see how we can help you!