Airtightness is an important measure of insulation. Along with the R-value, an insulation’s measure of airtightness can influence how effective the insulation material is at preventing energy loss. This is why it is important to pay attention to more than just the R-value when considering insulation options.
We have compiled some of the most important things to know about tightness in spray foam insulation for contractors and anyone who wants to learn more. Keep reading to learn how spray foam can contribute to the airtightness of a building and why tightness is so important as an insulation factor.
What Is Tightness in Insulation?
Many building owners consider airtightness a key factor when choosing insulation for a building. Airtightness focuses on eliminating gaps and cracks around a building’s frame. Having airtight insulation can help reduce airflow, which reduces drafts and creates a more comfortable, energy-efficient living or working environment. Certain types of insulation provide more airtightness than others, which makes tightness an important factor when building owners select their insulation.
It is also important to note that making a home 100 percent airtight is exceedingly difficult and can even lead to issues such as high moisture and carbon dioxide levels. When applying insulation to increase tightness, spray foam contractors should always make sure that the building has adequate ventilation. Using closed-cell spray foam can also help mitigate moisture, as it provides a moisture barrier.
Importance of Insulation Tightness
Did you know that air leaks can account for up to 50 percent of the energy loss in a building? This is why so many property owners are concerned about air tightness in their homes and buildings. Insulation tightness helps reduce airflow, which creates a more comfortable and less drafty space. Reducing airflow increases energy efficiency, as the building’s HVAC system will not need to work as hard to properly heat or cool the building.
The higher R-values associated with higher-density foams make heating and cooling more efficient because it helps prevent heat and air transfer. These are just a few of the benefits of airtight insulation that you can market to your future customers.
Is Spray Foam Airtight?
Spray foam is one of the best insulation types for promoting airtightness. However, some foams may be more effective at achieving it than others. A spray foam’s density can influence its airtightness. For example, closed-cell foam has a higher density at a rate of two to three pounds per cubic foot. Because it is denser, this foam provides higher R-values and airtightness ratings.
There are three types of spray foam densities to be aware of: low-density foam, medium-density foam, and high-density foam. Keep these unique varieties in mind when choosing or recommending foam types for creating an airtight building.
Other types of insulation are not as effective at promoting airtightness. For example, fiberglass and cellulose insulations do not qualify as air barriers, which gives them low airtightness scores. This is another perk of spray foam insulation over other types.
Does Spray Foam Make a Building Airtight?
While making a building completely airtight is nearly impossible, spray foam insulation has airtight properties. If a customer wants to focus on airtight insulation, recommend high-density spray foam insulation in a variety of locations around their home or commercial building. Knowing where to apply spray foam to promote airtightness is just as important as knowing which type of insulation to choose.
Places You Want To Promote Airtightness
Let’s discuss some of the best areas to spray to promote energy efficiency and tightness throughout a home or commercial building. The attic is one of the most effective places to apply spray foam for less airflow. Heated air can rise and expand to the ceiling and roof of a building, especially during the winter months. Warm air can escape more easily if the building’s roof has gaps or poor insulation. Other critical areas to pay attention to for insulation purposes include walls, crawl spaces, areas under stairs, areas around windows, and more.
How Long Does Spray Foam Provide Benefits?
If you have ever worked with other types of insulation that tend to degrade over time, you may wonder how long spray foam can provide these tightness benefits. Fortunately, one of the biggest benefits of working with spray foam is the fact that it does not lose its shape or R-value over time. With the right application and inspections, spray foam insulation can last the lifetime of a home or commercial building. Even though spray foam has a higher up-front cost, the lack of maintenance and replacement materials that home and building owners will need to invest in makes foam insulation one of the more cost-effective options on the market.
Equipment You Need for Airtight Spray Foam
If you are planning to add high-density foam to your business’s list of services, you’re going to need the proper equipment. To provide an airtight spray, you will need closed-cell spray foam products and a system that supports these components. If you’re looking for more information on commercial spray foam insulation equipment and its applications, feel free to browse our selection of machines and parts at Spray Foam Systems.
If you are just starting out as a contractor, you might be wondering how you can learn more about spray foam and its equipment. Feel free to browse our website at Spray Foam Systems or contact our professionals today if you have any questions about which spray foam equipment is right for you. Practicing applying foam and observing the properties and qualities of spray foam can help expand your experience as a contractor.
Now that you know more about tightness in spray foam insulation, you can stock up on the supplies you need and provide more services for your customers. Many home and business owners will be looking for contractors who provide insulation and airtight treatments for their buildings, which your company will be able to fulfill. Don’t forget to check out our selection of spray equipment at Spray Foam Systems to expand your services as a contractor.
