Things You Should Know About Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is a great way to reduce your energy bill. In fact, the installation of this type of insulation can lead to a 20- to 50% reduction in your monthly energy bills. In addition, you'll save on airborne irritants like pollen and dust, as well as lessened humidity in your home. You may even be able to qualify for rebates and tax credits for your efforts. However, there are a few things you need to know before installing your spray foam.

One of the first things you should know about spray foam is that it's a hazardous material. The chemicals in the product are very toxic, and can cause eye irritation and respiratory problems. Therefore, you should not attempt to install it yourself. A trained professional should be used for this task.

You can also expect to pay more for closed-cell spray foam than for open-cell spray foam. This type of insulation is stronger, more resistant to mold and mildew, and more durable. The cost of open-cell spray foam is also lower. If you live in a dry climate, you might choose open-cell foam.

If you're thinking about using spray foam to seal your attic, you should make sure it's installed properly. If it's not, you can expect your attic to fill up with gaps. This could cause conditioned air to escape into the attic and a lot of unconditioned air to enter. This is a common problem in attics, and it can make your HVAC system work harder. It also can lead to damage to your electrical wiring and plastered ceilings.

When you are installing spray foam, you should be aware that it will off-gas large amounts of volatile organic compounds during the curing process. If you choose to do the job yourself, be sure you wear protective equipment and stay away from your house for at least a day after the installation. The EPA requires that you avoid spray foam insulation for at least 72 hours. If you're not able to leave your home, you should use a ventilation system to help the insulation dry.

Another important thing to know about spray foam is that it comes in three different varieties. The most common is a polyurethane-based product. You can find alternative types as well, including water-based and foam-based options. While all of these products have advantages, the best choice for you will depend on your needs.

While the price of installing spray foam insulation depends on the type you choose, you can expect it to be in the range of $1,284 to $3,741. The costs can vary based on the size of your project, the thickness of the product you choose, and the labor costs of your community. If you're looking to upgrade your home, you can get a free estimate from a local expert. You should be careful about how you install it, as you don't want to leave any voids that can trap air or mold. You should also take care to make sure your spray foam installer is equipped with the proper safety gear.