Why Should I Choose Expanding Foam Insulation?

Posted by | Posted on 2:09 AM

By Edward Nave

Expanding foam insulation is used for ceilings, walls, attics and basements. It's also used around window seals, electrical boxes, outlets and other small, enclosed places. Sailors use it for docks and pilots to strengthen airplane wings. What is it, and how is it applied? I will give you details on this and the other 3 insulations types, in hopes to assist you when choosing insulation.

The first we will consider when choosing insulation is loose fill. This insulation is made from either cellulose or fiberglass. It makes a blanket effect when it is blown into the walls. Contractors use it attics and walls in unfinished buildings. This type is treated for fire resistance and moisture.

Next we will consider rigid board when we are choosing insulation. It's made from fiberglass, polyurethane or polystyrene. It's used in basement walls cathedral ceilings, flat roofs and building perimeters. Rigid board is not moisture or flame resistant. Bugs often burrow in this insulation. This product required to be covered by fire resistant paneling or dry wall. I wouldn't consider rigid board when choosing insulation.

The third to consider when choosing insulation is loose fill. This insulation is made from fiberglass or cellulose. It is blown into the walls to make a blanket effect. This insulation is used in attics and walls of unfinished buildings. It's treated to for fire and moisture protection.

Loose fill made from fiberglass or cellulose like Expanding foam insulation it's blown into the walls to make a blanket effect. It is used in unfinished attics and walls.

Expanding foam insulation has many benefits. It reduces wind washing, sound and condensation. It improves air leakage, air quality and lowers heating and cooling bills. It protects against floods and doesn't deteriorate in time. It can be used in extreme temperatures effectively. You don't need to winterize further. It can be applied over the old insulation material.

The last to consider when choosing insulation is rigid board. This is made of fiberglass polystyrene or polyurethane. It's installed in flat roof reproofing, basement walls cathedral ceilings and perimeter insulation. Unlike expanding foam insulation it's not flame resistant and should be covered with either fire resistant paneling or dry wall. Bugs often make nests in this insulation so insecticide treated material is needed when insulating basement walls. Because of these problems I would not pick rigid board when choosing insulation.

When choosing insulation you have to consider the good and bad qualities of each type of insulation. Although batt and blanket is the cheapest initially, proper insulation is required. Rigid foam boards is also inexpensive but unless treated can obtain moisture and harbor bugs. Both require further weatherization. Expanding foam insulation and loose fill both effectively cover the area without bugs, or retaining moisture and without further weatherization.

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