March 25, 2020
For homeowners looking to upgrade their home or attic insulation and replace their old and aging “pink stuff,” spray foam insulation is a very attractive option.
What Are the Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam is not only a great insulating material, but it has superior air sealing capabilities as well, and can make your home or building more comfortable in a number ways that other types of insulation can’t:
Air sealing prevents drafts, leading to higher comfort levels and better indoor temperature control
Air sealing also provides a barrier against pollen, dust, and insects, which can be especially helpful in households with allergy sufferers
Closed-cell spray foam acts as a barrier to water and vapor, helping to prevent condensation, water intrusion, and mold growth
Spray foam is an effective sound barrier
But if you’ve been poking around online, trying to decide what kind of insulation you want to upgrade to, you’re likely not only looking for an effective material, but for the safest insulation for your home as well. Have you stumbled across websites asking, “Is spray foam insulation safe to use?” or “Is closed cell spray foam safe for your home?” The answer is yes, as long as it’s installed correctly!
Let’s separate fact from fiction, and explain why, as long as your insulation contractors know what they’re doing and are taking the right spray foam insulation safety precautions, spray foam is a great option for your home retrofit project.
How Safe Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray polyurethane (SPF) foam is a kind of plastic—and is made of two different liquids that combine to form a chemical reaction that makes foam. There are several different kinds of spray foam, including open cell, closed cell, and injection foam.
Spray foam is a very powerful insulating material, but there are some health risks associated with the installation process. The application process can result in spray foam off gassing—as the chemical process that creates the foam is taking place, it emits chemicals into the air that you don’t want to breathe (this is why any smart spray foam insulation installer takes safety gear seriously).
Vermont Foam Insulation requires that customers who are having spray foam insulation installed in their homes vacate the house for 24 hours following application, for this very reason. It’s just like when you open up your windows and ventilate your home as you’re letting a fresh coat of paint dry inside!
Spray Foam Insulation Is Safe… When It’s Installed the Right Way!
When it’s installed by an expert insulation contractor, spray foam insulation is a completely safe and effective solution to a number of problems in your home, including:
Rising fuel bills
Drafty rooms and inconsistent temperatures in your home
Indoor allergy-like symptoms (such as coughing and sneezing)
Vermont Foam Insulation is the spray foam insulation company you can trust to leave your home safe and energy efficient after upgrading your insulation. For nearly 15 years, they’ve been helping homes throughout Southern Vermont and Southwestern NH feel better indoors and keep their energy costs low. Whether you are looking to seal up your attic or install much needed basement insulation in your home, reach out to our team and learn more.