Learn About Spray Foam Insulation Benefits
Although Comfortworks does not install spray foam insulation, we feel it is important to understand the benefits of using this product. Either way let us know if you have any questions about spray foam insulation benefits and geothermal systems.
Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation is a spray applied polyurethane foam which seals cracks, gaps and voids by expanding up to 120 times its volume into a semi-rigid insulation and air seal. High air permeability of traditional insulations allows air to easily pass through walls where the gaps and seams exist. This air infiltration is what reduces the thermal performance of traditional insulations.
Spray foam insulation is available in two forms: Open-cell foam and Closed-cell foam.
Open-Cell Foam
Open-cell foam is soft and spongy with a light open texture, the cells of the foam are broken and air fills the "open" spaces, and has excellent sound absorption qualities. This type of foam in most commonly used in walls and attic spaces. This foam offers an R-value of 3.5 per inch sprayed.
Closed-Cell Foam
Closed cell foam is hard and rigid with a dense texture, the cells of the foam are closed and compact, and offered added strength to the structure. This type of foam is most commonly used in commercial metal building structures, under home foundations, and applied to ductwork. This foam offers an R-value of 6 per inch sprayed.
Installation
Spraying SPF insulation to the underside of the roof deck (encapsulating the attic) makes a continuous air barrier simple and cost effective. The need for soffit, gable, and ridge vents is eliminated, as well as, radiant barrier materials commonly used under the roof deck. The encapsulated attic prevents moisture laden outside air from entering the attic and interior of the home. The attic will stay an average of 80 degrees in both the summer and winter. Whereas a traditionally insulated attic space can experience temperatures from 10 degrees to 140 degrees. The encapsulated attic greatly impacts the heating and cooling equipment and ducting by creating a conditioned space in your attic which reduces duct gains/losses, heat loads, and both sensible and latent cooling loads.