NEWARK Blog

A Brief Guide to Spray Foam Insulation

Insulating a home has been a part of building codes for some time now, so the concept is not new. However, choosing a type of insulation can be more challenging since there are many available. Spray foam insulation is a useful tool for large-scale new construction projects and minor remodeling work. The following guide offers some insight into insulation to help ensure the success of your project.

What Is Spray Foam Insulation?

This chemical-based material is made of isocyanate foam and polyol resin, which technicians mix onsite. Combining these materials causes a reaction that turns the mixture into foam, which is then sprayed into open cavities using a hose, compressor, and other specialized equipment. When first applied to a surface, the insulation resembles a bubbling liquid and then expands and hardens after a few seconds. Due to its versatility, you can use it to fill wall voids and cracks, boosting your home's R-value and interior comfort.

Types

There are two types of spray foam insulation: closed-cell and open-cell. They vary based on the type of tiny bubbles or cells inside the foam. The bubbles of closed-cell foam are tightly pressed together, so air and moisture can't penetrate the material. This high-density insulation is rigid once it cures. The bubbles in open-cell insulation aren't pushed together and enclosed, making the low-density material soft and spongy after curing.

Benefits

Since this insulation is sprayed through drilled holes in surfaces and then expands to fill the void, technicians don't have to remove drywall and floorboards, which means they can complete work quickly with few modifications to your property.

The closed-cell variety is a good choice to eliminate drafts or humidity, as the material hardens to form an airtight, watertight barrier with an R-value of seven per inch. The rigid material won't lose its shape, either, which helps it last for decades as an effective insulator. It's also sturdy enough to provide structural support to prevent walls from bowing and buckling, which can help you eliminate the need for repairs.

If you need to fill cracks in the property infrastructure, open-cell spray foam insulation is an excellent sealant to use. The spongy substance remains flexible after it cures. This means it can conform to the shape of irregular openings of various sizes to provide an airtight seal in hard-to-reach areas. The sponge-like material absorbs sound, too, which is why it is used to muffle outside noise and the clanking and buzzing of air ducts and plumbing equipment in building voids.

Ensure your home is airtight and energy efficient with services from Koala Insulation of Newark in Delaware. These professionals offer energy audits and insulation installation for homeowners throughout New Castle County. The knowledgeable, courteous, reliable technicians are committed to improving your home's efficiency. Visit them online for details on insulation benefits, or call (302) 273-8476 to schedule a consultation.