Homeowners are becoming increasingly more aware of their environmental impact and energy costs. Which is why most turn towards spray foam insulation, the gold standard for energy efficiency and comfort.
When you’re taking up a major insulation project, it’s always a good idea to get foam insulation contractors on board. Here’s everything you need to know about using foam insulation.
What Types of Spray Foams Are There, and Which One Do You Need?
Before you start spraying, you need to pick the right type of foam for your project. Your two main options are:
- Open-cell spray foam is:
- Great for soundproofing (perfect if you have noisy neighbors)
- Expands when you spray it
- Good for filling weird-shaped gaps and tight spaces
- Budget-friendly
- Closed-cell spray foam is:
- Strong and waterproof
- Perfect for basements and damp areas
- Gives you more insulation power in less space
- Costs more but lasts longer
What Tools and Safety Gear Do You Need?
While professional contractors are the best option, you can still DIY it with a little preparation. Here’s what you’ll need for your safety:
- Respirator mask
- Chemical-resistant gloves
- Safety glasses
- Old clothes you don’t mind throwing away
- Good ventilation. Make sure to open those windows!
Preparing for an Insulation Project
Your first step to getting ready for your project is cleaning. This means cleaning everything thoroughly, from top to bottom. Even the slightest bit of dust can prevent the foam from sticking properly. Make sure you also cover anything you don’t want foam on because once it’s there, it’s probably not coming off anytime soon.
Walk through your space and look for:
- Electrical outlets (cover them with plastic)
- Pipes and wiring (mark their locations)
- Air leaks that need sealing
Some tips we give DIY-ers are:
- Always measure twice, but spray only once
- Calculate your square footage so you don’t end up with excess material
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Spray Foam Insulation
Step 1: Start at the bottom
Always start at the bottom and work your way up. Gravity is your friend, and this way you can let it rise naturally.
Step 2: Work in thin layers
While it’s tempting to fill the whole wall cavity in one shot, it’s not a good idea. That’s because spray foam expands for several minutes, even after you’ve applied it. Putting too much at once means damaging your framing or worse, pushing out your drywall.
Step 3: Only fill about ⅓ of the space
Watch it expand and fill the rest naturally. It’s a lot like watching bread rise!
Step 4: Keep your spray gun moving in smooth motions
Smooth, steady motions are your best bet. If you stop in the middle and start again, you could get uneven coverage and weak spots. Practice on some cardboard if you’ve never done this before.
Best Applications of Spray Foam
Rim Joists
Rim joists are your biggest bang for the buck. These are the boards that sit on top of your foundation wall. When you seal these, you can effectively stop cold air from wafting into your home.
Basement Walls
Closed-cell foam works best for basement walls. It sticks to the concrete and can create a moisture barrier.
Attic Spaces
Attic spaces can be tricky. While foam is a good option for air sealing, your attic needs to breathe. Make sure to let your roof ventilate so you can prevent ice dams from forming.
Around Windows and Doors
Most people don’t realise this, but small gaps can make a huge difference. Foam around the frame of windows and doors can prevent drafts. This saves you hundreds of dollars in heating and cooling costs.
Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?
If you’ve got small jobs piling up around your home, such as gaps around your pipes, outlets, or window frames, sure, DIY it! You’ll save money and even learn a valuable skill.
Bigger jobs, such as insulating entire basements or attics, require calling professionals to step in. This is because:
- They have the right equipment for large areas
- They know building codes
- Their insurance covers any mistakes
- They can spot potential problems you might miss
How Much Does Foam Insulation Cost?
You can expect to pay $1 to $4.50 per square foot for spray foam insulation. A typical whole-house project runs around $6,000, but that will vary widely depending on your home’s size and the areas you’re treating.
While the upfront cost might seem like a lot, spray foam actually pays for itself through energy savings. Most homeowners see their heating and cooling bills drop by 20-50% after proper spray foam installation.
What Maintenance Does Foam Insulation Need?
The good news is that properly installed spray foam maintains itself. While traditional insulation tends to shift, settle, and get damaged by rodents, spray foam stays put for decades. At best, you need to carry out a visual check annually, especially in spaces such as basements and crawl spaces.
Make sure to check for any cracks or gaps that may have developed over time. If you come across any small issues, you can always touch them up with a DIY kit from the hardware store.
Most quality installations will last 50 or more years, all without losing effectiveness. That’s longer than most people own their homes!
Also Read: How Long Does Spray Foam Insulation Last?
You Deserve a Comfortable Home All Year Round!
Spray foam insulation isn’t really just about staying warm in the winter or cool in the warmer months. It’s more about creating a home that works for you and not against you. Foam insulation can help prevent drafts, reduce noise, and prevent annoying moisture issues that tend to develop over time. While you can tackle small sealing projects yourself, we recommend hiring professional foam insulation contractors so you get the best of your investment. Get in touch with the professionals at Foam Insulation Solution today so you can maximize your home’s energy efficiency and comfort for decades to come!
