What Are the Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation?

For homeowners, there are numerous benefits of spray foam insulation. In our view, it is the very best insulation option on the market.

Spray foam insulation consists of two main components, isocyanate and polyol resin. When mixed together, they expand and solidify into a foam. The expanding nature of spray foam allows it to conform to irregular shapes and create a seamless, airtight seal, making it an effective solution for both insulation and air sealing in residential buildings.

Keep reading for more information about the following benefits of spray foam insulation:

1. Excellent thermal resistance
2. Proper air sealing
3. Better air quality
4. Improved climate control
5. Spray foam creates a moisture barrier
6. Spray foam is resistant to mold
7. Keeps critters out
8. Longevity
9. Noise reduction
10. Reducing energy bills

REenergizeCO has installed spray foam insulation in homes throughout Denver, Fort Collins, and the Front Range of Colorado. Our extensive experience with the material has revealed a number of important benefits.

Benefit #1: Excellent Thermal Resistance

Of all the insulation options available, polyurethane spray foam has the highest resistance to heat. This is critical for effectively managing the temperature in your home and controlling your energy bills.

Home insulation is rated based on its thermal resistance, which is measured using a unit called the R-value. The R-value quantifies the insulation material’s ability to resist the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation’s performance.

Benefit #2: Proper Air Sealing

It is a common misconception that insulation fills all the nooks and crannies of a home. Most insulation can’t do this. Air can still move in and out of your home through small gaps and cracks.

Spray foam does double duty, not only insulating the space but air sealing it as well. Polyurethane foam expands when applied, making it uniquely suitable for filling cracks and holes. This creates a tight seal that minimizes drafts and the movement of air.

“Only spray foam insulation (or rigid foam boards properly sealed to a surface) is intended to both insulate and air seal, although densely packed loose fill insulation may also have some ability to slow air leaks.”

– Insulating Colorado Homes, Colorado State University

Benefit #3: Better Air Quality

Poorly insulated homes have poor air quality. Dust and allergens flow more freely through the air when there is insufficient insulation. This can lead to a range of health issues, from aggravating allergies to asthma and other respiratory illnesses.

Spray foam insulation can seal the spaces with air leaks inside your home. This can improve the air quality, resulting in better health for occupants.

NOTE: It is best to have a professional insulation contractor install spray foam insulation. Homeowners who try to do it themselves may find that spray foam gives off unpleasant smells and vapors if the material is not mixed and applied correctly.

Benefit #4: Improved Climate Control

Inadequate or damaged insulation can leave your home feeling cold and drafty in the winter and unbearably hot in the summer. You might also notice that the heat or air conditioning runs and runs, but the temperature is never consistent.

Read More: Common Problems with Insulation

The combination of thermal insulation and air sealing provided by spray foam contributes to a more consistent indoor temperature. Homeowners can enjoy a more stable and comfortable living environment without experiencing incessant temperature fluctuations.

Benefit #5: Spray Foam Creates a Moisture Barrier

The presence of holes and cracks in exterior walls can allow more than just air to sneak into your home. Moisture can also make its way in through small cracks and crevices if they are not adequately sealed and protected with proper insulation or filler. Excess moisture can lead to issues like mold and mildew, particularly in areas with high humidity.

Spray foam insulation acts as both an effective filler and insulation. And, because it is impermeable to water, the material will remain intact if flooding or moisture were ever to impact your home.

Benefit #6: Spray Foam Is Resistant to Mold

Mold can cause serious damage to your home and endanger your health. Spores often take up residence in insulation materials such as fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool—but NOT in spray foam.

In addition to water resistance, the benefits of spray foam insulation also include resistance to mold contamination. Spray foam is composed of an inert polymer that provides no source of food for bacteria and mold.

Benefit #7: Keeps Critters Out

Spray foam insulation isn’t just a thermal barrier. It also barricades the tiny openings that bugs, rodents, and other pests love to use to get inside your home.

Animal intruders often use insulation batts, rolls, and loose-fill for bedding. Spray foam insulation, meanwhile, provides neither food nor shelter. This reduces the risk of an infestation and the associated health hazards and damage to your home.

Benefit #8: Longevity

Spray foam insulation has an indefinite lifespan. It does not settle or degrade over time, providing durable and consistent thermal performance.

There are two types of spray foam insulation, closed cell and open cell. Of the two, closed cell spray foam typically lasts longer because it is rigid and retains its shape better. Both options are long-lasting, providing superior insulation for decades under ideal conditions.

Read More: How Long Does Spray Foam Insulation Last?

Benefit #9: Noise Reduction

At the right thickness, spray foam can also help to reduce the transmission of airborne sounds. This is especially advantageous for homeowners looking to create a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

To be clear, installing spray foam is not the same as soundproofing. Spray foam insulation dampens sound, but it won’t prevent sound from traveling between rooms or being audible outside the home. For many homeowners, however, simply reducing noise is enough.

Benefit #10: Reducing Energy Bills

Maximizing your home’s energy efficiency is one of the major benefits of spray foam insulation. The more efficient your home is, the less money you have to spend on heating and cooling the house.

All types of home insulation can help homeowners improve efficiency. However, the unsurpassed thermal resistance and durability of spray foam insulation result in optimal, long-term savings on energy bills.

Discover the Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation for Yourself!

Insulating your house with spray foam has a number of advantages, but it is important to determine whether it’s right for your particular needs and goals. Your budget is another important consideration.

REenergizeCO can help you decide if spray foam insulation is right for you. Our efficiency team is made up of qualified and experienced professionals committed to maximizing your energy savings and improving the comfort of your home.

Contact REenergizeCO today for more information about our spray foam insulation services!