Are you thinking about installing spray foam insulation in your Houston home?

If so, it pays to know a thing or two about spray foam insulation before you decide to hire a contractor and take the next step. Luckily, you have Eskimo Insulation on your side. At Eskimo Insulation, not only do we provide insulation installation in Houston and all of southeast Texas, we also want to help our clients stay informed about what they’re buying and why. That’s why we’ve come up with this guide on what you need to know about spray foam insulation.

What exactly is spray foam?

Spray foam is an air barrier and insulation system that can be used to insulate and air seal walls, ceiling cavities, floors and many other spaces against air movement. It is first applied as a liquid, but as it dries, it expands to up to 120 times its original size, allowing it to fill in all areas, even the smallest nooks and crannies. Spray foam is typically made of petroleum, but there are some options made from soy and other agricultural materials.

Why is spray foam superior to fiberglass insulation?

While fiberglass is still the most commonly used kind of insulation, it’s certainly not the most effective.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy,

The most common insulation, fiberglass, does not stop air leakage. In older homes, dirty fiberglass is a telltale sign of air movement (it simply collects dirt like a filter).

If your home’s insulation cannot provide an adequate air seal, then true insulation can’t be achieved. Wet fiberglass is especially problematic, reducing its effectiveness by more than 50 percent. Spray foam, on the other hands, creates a true air seal, providing a much higher level of insulation. Unlike fiberglass, spray foam will not break down over time. However, it is important to note that spray foam can start to disintegrate after prolonged periods of UV exposure.

What’s the difference between open-cell spray foam and closed-cell spray foam?

• Open-cell spray foam – This is the most common type of spray foam insulation, and it excels at absorbing sound. Open-cell spray foam is porous in nature, which means that it isn’t resistant to humidity or water. Open-cell spray foam is often used in areas that require sound attenuation, like interior walls, but it’s also ideal for attic ceilings because it has pores that allow for roof leaks to be spotted inside homes.
• Closed-cell spray foam – Closed-cell spray foam, just like it sounds, is much more dense than open-cell spray foam, making it water resistant. Closed-cell spray foam is ideal in areas where moisture or vapors are a concern, such as in basements, freezers, swimming pools, wine cellars and foundations.

Is spray foam insulation the right option for your home?

Spray foam is ideal for a wide variety of uses and areas, so chances are, spray foam is the ideal choice for insulation in your home in Houston. However, here at Eskimo Insulation, we offer free estimates, and we can help you determine if spray foam insulation is the right option for you.

Contact us today to learn more!