Spray foam insulation is one of the most popular insulation options in the US, and for good reason. Not only is it effective in blocking heat and cold, but it also helps reduce noise levels and prevents mold from forming. However, some people are concerned about the safety of installing foam insulation. So, is it safe to stay home while a professional installs spray foam?The answer is yes, as long as the foam is installed correctly.
RetroFoam, from Michigan, has more than 17 years of experience insulating thousands of homes and barns from poles in the lower part of the peninsula and the Toledo metropolitan area. The injectable foam on the walls also makes it easier to pass adhesive tape through them to lay new wiring. That said, there is a small cavity around the windows and doors that the injectable foam cannot reach. The outer walls can be completely insulated with injectable foam without the drywall collapsing. When selecting a foam insulation product, it's important to choose one that won't absorb water like a sponge.
Open-cell foam products are available on the market that do this, so make sure to do your research before making a purchase. Once you've decided that foam installation is necessary, the next step is to find a qualified and experienced professional for the job. Re-entry should be restricted until the product has finished curing and the building has been properly ventilated and thoroughly cleaned. Foam insulation needs no maintenance and will never need to be replaced unless manipulated, making the initial cost worthwhile. Foam insulation creates an air seal with a minimum of 3 inches of open cell or 2 inches of closed cell. Many people believe that closed-cell spray foam is the best choice for the attic because of its higher R-value, but in reality, both open-cell and closed-cell foams act as an air seal. Over the years, foam insulation has changed dramatically, so something that could have been true 20 years ago wouldn't be the case today.
In fact, foam insulation allows you to save more money in the long run on monthly energy bills, as it creates an airtight seal. If you're still concerned about safety during installation, you can consider leaving your house while the foam insulation dries. This way you won't have to worry about vapors or VOCs. Clarifying these misconceptions about foam insulation will likely make you curious to learn about its many benefits for your project.
