How Spray Foam Insulation Work
If you do an energy audit in your home, you’ll discover that a lot of heat is escaping through your walls and attic. This is how you know that insulation is important. Insulation will seal the air that circulates in your home so you don’t have to spend a lot of money on your utility bill. Did you know that heating eats up more than half of your monthly power bill?
Modern home insulation techniques apply the second law of thermodynamics, which states that heat flow from warmer spaces to colder areas. For the longest time, fiberglass batt has been the primary choice for insulation. But because it is fairly expensive, another alternative came to be, and many homeowners prefer to use it because it’s well within their budget.
What is Spray Foam Insulation?
Right now, spray foam is the most popular material for insulating homes. It can fill the spaces between the walls and attic, more particularly the framing studs. It is also technically non-toxic and will last you for almost a lifetime. Spray foam also has the tendency to expand several times its original volume, thus filling the air gaps effectively. So even if the material used for your walls and attic expands your insulation will be expanding along with it.
If you’re just insulating small parts of the wall, buying tanks of spray foam from local contractors may be the more cost-efficient choice. Just be sure that you’re wearing the proper gear when installing it. But if you’re insulating a bigger area, such as 200 square feet or more, then you should consider hiring the professionals.
How to Apply Spray Foam Insulation
If you want to install spray foam insulation on your own, be sure that you’re aware of the risks and health hazards associated with it. You need the proper equipment and wear the right gear to ensure that everything turns out well. Here are more tips to get you started.
1. Test the spray first.
You have to know how the spray form behaves so you can apply it accordingly. Spray foam expands up to a hundred times its original volume. By doing a test spray, you’ll know how much you should apply in the different areas of your home.
2. Spray evenly.
The places that need spray foam most are the studs and the backside of exterior sheathing. Spray the foam evenly and let it expand accordingly. Make sure that it fills the gaps and creases in the wall, especially in the attic.
3. Shave away excess foam.
After applying, allow the foam to set and form. Then use a handsaw blade to shave away the excess, particularly the ones that extend past the studs. Excess foam has to go so it won’t get in the way when installing drywall.
Spray foam insulation are preferred by most because it offers a better seal attics and walls. Aside from its exemplary performance, it is also quite affordable. If you need help in installing spray foam insulation Indianapolis, seek the most reputable service provider in the area.