FAQ's
Check out Our Most Frequently Asked Questions About Spray Foam Insulation!
Over the years we have received a ton of questions about Spray Foam Insulation since it is a somewhat new product to be residentially available and has risen in overall popularity.
We thought we would give you a quick rundown of the top questions that we are asked by customers who are considering choosing spray foam insulation for their home or business.
Read more below or use our table of content to navigate the questions and answers we have put together.
Can Spray Foam Be Painted?
Technically yes, spray foam can be painted with a latex paint however it is meant to be covered by drywall which is then painted. Most people opt not to paint their spray foam insulation for a number of reasons.
One, because the seams where the panels meet will need to be caulked which can be difficult to do neatly if the area is already painted. Second, if there are any issues with the spray foam itself, such as cracking or bubbling, painting over it will only serve to further complicate matters.
It is generally advisable to simply cover the spray foam with drywall and then proceed with painting as usual. This will give you a neater finish and save you the headache of having to deal with potential issues down the line.
Does the Foam hold/attract water?
The answer to this question is a bit tricky as spray foam can absorb water - their are specific kinds of open cell foams that will absorb water but this does not mean that all spray foam does/will.
Closed cell spray foam will not absorb water and is the most common type used in homes. This variety of spray foam is also more effective at blocking out moisture and air which is why it is the preferred choice for most people.
That being said, even closed cell spray foam can be damaged by water if it is exposed to a significant amount of water over a long period of time.
Generally speaking, however, spray foam is not particularly susceptible to water damage and will hold up well in most situations. If you are concerned about your spray foam being damaged by water, you can always consult with us to get a professionals opinion
Is It Fire Resistant?
Because spray foam is a kind of plastic it is flammable if exposed to a significant amount of direct heat or fire. Spray foam's typical ignition temperature is about 680 degrees Fahrenheit making it extremely unlikely to catch fire.
Does the Foam Hold/Attract Water?
The answer to this question is a bit tricky as spray foam can absorb water - there are specific kinds of open cell foams that will absorb water but this does not mean that all spray foam does/will.
Closed cell spray foam will not absorb water and is the most common type used in homes. This variety of spray foam is also more effective at blocking out moisture and air which is why it is the preferred choice for most people.
That being said, even closed cell spray foam can be damaged by water if it is exposed to a significant amount of water over a long period of time.
Generally speaking, however, spray foam is not particularly susceptible to water damage and will hold up well in most situations. If you are concerned about your spray foam being damaged by water, you can always consult with us to get a professionals opinion
Is Spray Foam Toxic?
Spray foam is not toxic to you or your house mates once it has been cured. During the installation process, because of the areosolants used, it is important that everyone in the house vacate until the installation is complete.
What are the long term effects of living with spray foam?
The main effect of living with spray foam is increased energy efficiency as your home will be better insulated. This can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable home overall.
In terms of health, there are no known long term effects of living with spray foam insulation. Some people may be sensitive to the chemicals used in the installation process but these generally dissipate quickly and do not pose any long term risks.
Can I just do it myself?
Certainly you could, however it is always best to let the professionals handle it as they are highly trained, get the materials cheaper, and are able to provide you a money back gaurentee in most cases.
What spray foam has the highest r-value?
Closed cell spray foam has an r-value of about r-6.8 it is the highest r-value insulation available currently and because of its airtight qualities proctects against mold, mildew, and pest/animal activity.
What is an r-value?
The r-value is a measure of how well an insulator works. The higher the r-value the better the insulation will be at keeping things cold in the winter and hot in the summer.
How long does spray foam last?
When installed properly, spray foam insulation can last for the life of your home. It is not susceptible to pests or animals and will not degrade over time like other types of insulation. This makes it a great long-term investment for your home.
Is spray foam really better than traditional fiberglass insulation?
There is no simple answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors. In general, however, spray foam insulation is more effective than traditional fiberglass insulation. It has a higher r-value, is airtight, and can help block out noise. It is also more expensive upfront but can save you money in the long run.
What are the disadvantages of spray foam insulation?
The main disadvantage of spray foam insulation is the cost. It is more expensive than traditional fiberglass insulation and can be difficult to install if you are not a trained professional.
Overall, spray foam insulation is a great choice for most people. It is more effective than traditional fiberglass insulation and can save you money in the long run. It is also important to be aware of the disadvantages of spray foam insulation before making a decision.