Commonly Asked Questions
1.) What is the R-value of this foam insulation? Open cell foam: R-4.1/per inch & Closed cell foam: R-7/per inch
2.) If the R-value is no higher than fiberglass or cellulose, then what is so great about your product? 3 1/2" open cell foam will outperform R-26 & 5 1/2" of open cell foam will outperform R-38 in performance tests.
3.) How much is spray foam insulation compared to fiberglass and cellulose? Spray foam insulation is about 2 to 2.1/2 times more expensive than conventional insulations, but the payback period is about 3 to 5 years.
4.) Why would I want to pay 2 to 2 1/2 times the price of fiberglass or cellulose for this insulation? This insulation is a lifetime product. It will not sag, separate or decay like conventional insulations. It stops air infiltration which is the #1 reason for energy loss. It will provide a seamless building envelope and create a more comfortable indoor environment. It is safe and environmentally friendly. It will decrease your energy bills, as well.
5.) What type of energy savings can I expect with foam insulation? In existing homes, you can save up to 30% on your energy bills. In new construction, you can save up to 50% on your energy bills.
6.) How long will this insulation last? Lifetime insulation
7.) Why do you spray this on the underside of the roof deck? Spray foamed attics are typically 5 to 10 degrees warmer or cooler than the living space temperatures year-round. Vented attics fluctuate from the temperature outside in the winter to as hot as 160 degrees in the summer months. Vented attics can have condensation issues where spray foam attics eliminate condensation and ice damming problems. Spray foam attics are great for HVAC duct work and systems because they are now part of the conditioned building envelope.
8.) What happens if I get a roof leak? When open cell foam is used on the underside of the roof deck, it will saturate with water and drip letting you know that you have a roof leak. It will also dry out as soon as the source of water is taken away.
9.) Can I save a room in my house and put my air handler in the attic? Yes, when we spray the underside of the roof deck; your attic will become a conditioned area.
10.) Will the spray foam insulation void my shingle warranty? No, most shingle manufacturers will warrant the practice of applying foam to the underside of the roof deck without ventilation. It is spelled out in their warranties.
11.) Doesn’t my attic have to breathe? No, conventional insulations are air permeable which means that air will penetrate and leak out of your structure. When hot meets cold, you have condensation. This is why attics must be vented. However with spray foam insulation, it is air impermeable insulation. Therefore, it can be applied directly to the underside of the roof sheathing and not require ventilation because there are no longer any condensing surfaces.
12.) What’s the difference between open cell and closed cell foam? Open cell is used in dry interior applications and closed cell foam is for below-grade or exterior applications.
13.) Do I have to have a vapor barrier installed over the foam insulation? No.
14.) Is this product good for soundproofing? Yes, open cell spray foam insulation has the best soundproofing qualities of all insulations on the market.
15.) Do I have to change anything on the sizing of my HVAC if I use foam insulation? In new construction, you are able to downsize your HVAC system up to 40% by using spray foam insulation.
16.) Does your insulation support mold growth? No, it does not support mold growth. It is an inert plastic which will not let mold proliferate.
17.) Why do I want to spray the garage ceiling where there is a bonus room above? This will eliminate cold and drafty floors above.
18.) Is this foam insulation fire rated? Class 1 fire rated like fiberglass and cellulose.