Spray foam insulation is an energy efficient solution to any and all HVAC needs. As an alternative to traditional fiberglass insulation, this approach can save in terms of energy costs and consumption. By keeping more heat in or limiting cool air from escaping, the right insulation is essential for homes and businesses that want to spend less without compromising quality. In doing so, they can cut costs by using less which makes an impact on the environment as well as on utility bills during a time where the total consumption of energy in the United States was approximately 97.4 quadrillion.
Outperforming fiberglass insulation alternatives
Spray foam insulation effectively outperforms traditional fiberglass alternatives in numerous ways. In addition to insulating a home or business more effectively, spray foam insulation also is more durable, while traditional fiberglass deteriorates quickly meaning that it loses its efficacy over time. The cost of replacing insulation can be expensive, making the initial investment into spray foam insulation one that pays dividends in the long run. In addition to its durability, spray foam insulation also does a better job at insulating. Unlike fiberglass, spray foam insulation fills spaces air tight. This means less air ultimately escapes which means more consistent temperatures and the need for less energy consumption. On the other hand, fiberglass insulation does not prevent air from passing through it. Though the cost of installation is less for fiberglass, spray foam insulation has a longer lifetime, stops moisture from building up, acts as a sound barrier, and even improves the structural integrity of a building.
Understanding different types of spray foam insulation
The two main types of spray foam insulation products are split between open-cell and closed-cell insulation. Open-cell spray foam means that cells are hollow, leaving air to fill the gaps inside the material. Closed-cell insulation is filled by using a spray foam gun to inject gas, liquid or another filler into the core of the foam. Examining the structural integrity of a facility, the location of the spray insulation, and the spray foam chemicals being used are a few factors to take into account when choosing between either option.
Installation Process
With installation being the main consideration for many home and business owners, it’s important to understand how spray foam installation equipment operates versus traditional fiberglass. Fiberglass insulation is prepackaged in rolls of different lengths and thicknesses which are to be measured and cut to fit into place. That installation process can release stay fiberglass particles into the air which can irritate everything from nasal passages to skin. Those installing fiberglass on their own must be sure to take the appropriate precautions to limit the inhalation of the material or its contact with the skin or eyes. Alternatively, spray home insulation kits are comprised of the two parts of the materials which are kept separate until being sprayed. Those two components are isocyanate and resin. Kits will mix the two by warming them to a temperature that makes them cohesive upon their application. The complexity of that requires a professional to install the insulation. Though a do it yourself approach cannot be applied to spray foam installation, professional installation improves results and limits the impact on the environment of the installation site.
Industry trends signify spray foam insulation is here to stay
Perhaps the best evidence of spray foam insulation becoming industry standard can be examined in the marketplace. The global spray foam insulation market was valued at 690 million dollars in 2018. That market value is expected to rise to 1.1 billion dollars by 2025. Those economic projections show that spray foam insulation is becoming industry standard. With corporations such as BASF Corporation, Lapolla Industries, Bayer Material Science, NCFI Polyurethanes, Icynene, Demilec, Premium Spray Products, Rhino Linings Corporation, CertainTeed Corporation, and Dow Chemical investing millions into this industry, it is only a matter of time before spray foam insulation antiquates alternatives.
Choosing spray foam insulation
Improved performance, a longer lifetime, and economic incentives are a few reasons why choosing spray foam insulation will maximize the value of any construction or renovation project. For both businesses and home owners, it has become apparent that there is no other option when it comes to maintaining the integrity of your HVAC system.
