Spray Foam Insulation in Waterloo

These days, a common question for any insulation contractor is whether spray foam insulation is right for a home insulation project. It’s a question being posed equally by homeowners, homebuilders, and contractors. In general, the answer is the same for all of them - spray foam is the best insulation product available today. Spray foam provides a complete “insulation system” and delivers more than other products. For those who may be thinking of installing spray foam insulation in Waterloo, this is a project with lifelong benefits.

For most experts in the industry, Spray Polyurethane Foam (sometimes referred to as SPF) is considered a superior product, especially when compared to the other options.  Indeed, spray foam has become a favorite for insulation projects of all sizes. SPF delivers multiple benefits in a single application, and provides superb product performance wherever installed - the roof, the attic, the basement, and even the garage. For the average homeowner, and in homes of various configurations, the benefits of SPF are comprehensive:

• spray foam completely seals a given space – it becomes totally airtight
• the final installed R-Values are measurably higher than other products
• an expert install will effectively constrain any unwanted air movement
• properly installed, spray foam will counteract the build up of moisture
• depending on the location, spray foam augments structural strength

For experts in the business, insulation performance relies on a space being totally airtight. Airtightness will make for better outcomes – improved energy efficiencies; better operating HVAC system; better balanced heating and cooling cycles; and dramatically lower heating and cooling costs. These improvements have a positive impact on every building structure, whether it’s a typical home or a larger commercial building. And in every case, the cumulative energy savings will make for an insulation project that is cost-worthy.

In the early days of development, SPF was primarily used in industrial applications.  It was a very effective insulator for cold-storage spaces, coolers, and deep freezers. Today, with significant product improvements, spray foam has become the superior insulation product preferred by many professionals. It is particularly well suited for those expansive areas like the attic and roof, where sealing and insulating are so critical. SPF evens seals the smallest holes and cracks, making it especially effective in awkward spaces like the attic.

When it comes to the installation process, spray foam insulation demands experience and expertise. The SPF compounds require some special handling, as well as onsite preparation. The application is also involved – the foam is sprayed out through a nozzle system – it spreads out as a thick liquid – and it quickly hardens in place. For the installer, the aim is to spray a consistent, uniform blanket of foam insulation. When complete, the final application looks very much like an insulating blanket that has enveloped the entire space.

One of the most important features of SPF is the capacity to impede air movement and moisture buildup. The insulation “blanket” is impermeable to air and moisture, and with a professional install, coverage is complete and comprehensive – everything is covered and sealed. Bottom line, there is no likelihood of air leakage, and likewise, no potential for “heat loss”. In addition, SPF is so impervious, there’s no need to install a separate vapor barrier - the installed “blanket” creates a combined air and moisture barrier at once.

An average home can benefit significantly from a spray foam install. Energy efficiency will be greatly improved; air circulation will be measurably enhanced; HVAC equipment will operate more efficiently; and heating/cooling cycles will be better balanced from season to season. For most, the best result is reduced energy usage. This will make for reduced utility bills throughout the year, and for substantial savings on both gas and/or electricity. Depending on the scope of the installation, savings could be considerable.    

For those homeowners who may be considering spray foam insulation in Waterloo, the best approach is to do the job right from day one. It’s therefore important to work with an insulation expert who has the experience and expertise. A good contractor follows building standards; abides by the construction code; and obeys relevant by-laws. And a good installer doesn’t take shortcuts, always installing according to the product specifications and manufacturer guidelines.  It’s the only way to fully ensure good project results.

For a homeowner, it’s vital that an insulation project be warrantied. At Great Northern Insulation (G.N.I.), customer satisfaction is assured for both products and installations. A manufacturer’s product warrantee is offered, and full project satisfaction is guaranteed. GNI installation teams are well trained, certified, and licensed. They make sure that the jobsite is prepared properly; they protect themselves with personal safety gear; and they make sure that occupant health and safety is assured during the installation process.

Without doubt, spray foam insulation requires professional oversight. The spray compounds require special handling, and the installations can sometimes pose challenges – clearly, every project will present unique issues. This is project work that is best left in the hands of an expert. And while homeowners might be tempted by a DIY approach, spray foam is absolutely not a project for the uninitiated – there are risks that go far beyond the capacities of an average homeowner. Indeed, a poor install and rework can be quite costly.

In recent years, SPF insulation has become a favorite install for many professionals. Small projects or large, SPF is the ideal for new construction, retrofitting, and renovation work.  The product has wide acceptance, and usage has grown exponentially – it points to the effectiveness of the product and installation. For home applications, spray foam brings about excellent results in attics, roofs, basements and garages. It’s been considered the ultimate insulating product, delivering homeowner benefits for many years to come.

By all descriptions, Spray Polyurethane Foam is considered to be a premium product. Because of this, it may not fit into every project budget. But overall, it’s an insulation project that goes well beyond any of the other alternatives.  An SPF installation will last a lifetime - it will not need replacement or replenishment - and the final results are better than anything comparable. In terms of project investment, SPF allows for a payback period that is quite reasonable - between 2 and 7 years - depending on the scope of the project.