Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Are all foams created equal?
Quite simply, no. SPF is a two-component product that is manufactured on-site, but engineered in the molecular level to optimize performance for a specific application. By varying key components, the finished product can be modified to meet specific performance requirements for roof applications, insulating air barrier systems, adhesive applications or wall insulation.
Q2. Will I save money if I insulate with Spray Polyurethane Foam insulation?
Yes. The installed cost of SPF is somewhat higher than fiberglass or cellulose; however, the higher initial cost is partially offset because you won't need house wrap and vapor barrier (E only) and your heating and air conditioner units can be smaller in size and BTU output. You will save in heating and cooling costs and also greatly reduce emissions.
Studies suggest that a home insulated with SPF uses 25% to 50% less energy than a home insulated with conventional insulation. Depending on the size of your home, your life style, appliances, home location, types of windows, etc., the extra cost of SPF is usually paid back in energy cost savings in two to three years.
Q3. Why the renewed interest in Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation?
Due to constant and continuing cost increases in energy, whether fossil fuels or electricity, homeowners are now becoming more aware of the advantages and payback time of using SPF. Also the manufacturers of spray foam have changed the chemical components and have removed the harmful chemical and ozone depleting blowing agents that were used several years ago, to make it safe for the family home.
Q4. How does EFFICIENCY PLUS and EFFICIENCY MAX compare to fiberglass batts?
Fiberglass will not stop air leakage; what fiberglass really does is filter out dirt, just like a filter on your furnace. You would be further off to build a home using straw bales than use fiberglass for insulation. Blown-in cellulose only slows down air permeance, where SPF stops air completely. Fiberglass (in the bundle un-opened) has an R-value of about 3.5 per inch thick. Efficiency Max has a LTR (long term r-value) of 7 per inch thick and Efficiency Plus is 4 per inch thick with no air leakage and is pretty much a constant R-value whereas fiberglass significantly loses R-value with temperature changes. Fiberglass will sag in the walls creating a void on the top and cause a thermal loop and heat loss, the same with cellulose, it will settle or if installed in an attic it may get blown around by wind entering the soffit of your home. SPF adheres to wood and metal studs resulting in a permanent barrier to air entry and heat loss.
Q5. What are the advantages using SPF for vapor barrier and air infiltration?
Efficiency Plus is an Insulation air-sealing system, Efficiency Max is also an insulation and air-sealing system but with the added sealing of a vapor barrier to moisture so nothing enters the walls or attic of your home. Both products conform to the cavities and sheathing, where fiberglass does not. Your vapor barrier is placed on the inside walls of your home, thereby cold or warm air (depending on season) enters the walls from the outside into the fiberglass, drawing in moisture and contaminants with it. Then holds it there creating molds, fungus and causing wood rot. Efficiency Plus and Efficiency Max prevents this unhealthy occurrence.
Q6. What are SPF thermal advantages?
SPF has the highest insulating value with the best R-value per inch thick of any readily available insulation, it allows for more insulation in a tighter space than fiberglass, also it’s performance in cold or hot weather conditions far exceed fiberglass. SPF also prevents convection loops that occur in fiberglass batts. SPF is also an excellent sound barrier.
Q7. Will SPF trap moisture and aid in mold growth?
Moisture problems are caused by air leakage, which draws moisture into the fiberglass insulated wall cavity, since SPF is an excellent air barrier, moisture problems are virtually eliminated, it also depends on how your home is built, but SPF does not promote fungus or mold growth.
Q8. Any long-term smells or odors?
Usually there is a slight smell during the application, but this will rapidly dissipate after the job is completed. After the room is vented (recommended 24 hrs) this helps in the curing process, there should be no odor, similar to painting a room.
Q9. Where can you use Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation?
a. Any where you like; Efficiency Plus is normally used in your home or workshop where there is 2’’x6’’ or greater wall thickness construction, attics, basements etc. Efficiency Max can be used also for better insulating value in your home. Other applications include walk-in freezers, docks, metal garages and large storage sheds or containers, wherever moisture may be a problem, underground piping/plumbing, etc, etc.
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