Explaining the Myths of Spray Foam Insulation

July 11, 2016

Over the years, residential homeowners have become familiar with insulation products like fiberglass batt insulation - likely because of the heavy advertising and marketing every season. And although Spray Foam Insulation has become more and more popular, product knowledge and awareness just hasn't kept pace. As it is, there are plenty of myths that surround SFI, and plenty of homeowners who are confused about the product and the benefits. Indeed, some of the myths are simply misinformation, and some need clarification. Beyond some of the misconceptions, there are some fundamentals that every homeowner should be aware. Most importantly, Spray Foam Insulation is not a weekend DIY undertaking. This is work for the experts - for professional installers who understand the uniqueness of the product and the complexity of installation. The equipment required is very specialized, and the installation process is multifaceted. Trying to save some money with a DIY approach could easily result in a bad install, and a reinstallation that could be quite costly. There are also some fallacies about project cost when installing Spray Foam Insulation. SFI is clearly a premium product when compared product to product with simpler, more conventional options. However, in most homes, it translates into a very cost-effective approach when insulating. R-Values are very high which means that energy savings are substantial. Energy efficiency is unparalleled, making for a good alternative in regions where temperature extremes are the norm. Best of all, seasonal utility bills are measurably reduced. Some homeowners are under the wrong impression that SFI settles over the years, and eventually requires topping up or reinstallation. The truth is, Spray Foam Insulation does not settle and will not lose its product integrity over the years. In fact, the product lifespan for SFI is such that it will never need replenishment or replacement. Unlike other insulation products that have a tendency to settle, and may require reinstallation, SFI delivers high performance over the long term - once again reinforcing its proven cost-effectiveness. When handled professionally, and expertly installed, Spray Foam Insulation is a safe application. Problems that arise are usually attributed to a badly handled installation. When installed to code, and when following the manufacturer's specifications, SFI cures properly and allows for a safe environment for occupants. SFI is approved by building codes across Canada, and is highly endorsed by many industry experts. In fact, SFI products have probably undergone more thorough product testing of the majority of building products. Unlike other home insulation options, SFI does not need a supplemental air barrier or vapour barrier as part of the overall installation. Spray Foam Insulation (in particular the closed cell version) seals a given space airtight, and provides an impermeable barrier to both air and moisture. Whether it's installed in the attic or roof, the application doesn't absorb water and stays dry indefinitely. Importantly, air and moisture are fully blocked from infiltrating through any opening, joint, crack, or crevice. The sealing also enhances R-Value. Simply put, Spray Foam Insulation is a better performing product - air infiltration is blocked; moisture is prevented from accumulating; and heat loss is dramatically reduced. The bottom line: energy efficiency that ensures substantial energy savings throughout the year.