Spray Foam Insulation 101

Updated: Aug 31, 2023

When it comes to insulating your home, especially in the colder months of the year in a part of the country like New York, you need to be able to trust the insulation you choose

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation is the most advanced, energy-efficient insulation and air sealant available today. There are two different kinds of spray foam:

CLOSED-CELL SPF provides added structural strength and is a hard, vapor-resistant foam that won’t need to be replaced if your home is flooded.
OPEN-CELL SPF offers the same insulation benefits but does not act as a vapor retarder or water barrier.

Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Drastically cut energy bills

Air leaks waste up to 40% of the energy used to heat and cool the average home. These air leaks waste energy and drive up utility bills. Spray foam acts as an air barrier to seal any cracks and gaps and prevent air leakage. Minimizing these leaks can save the typical homeowner up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs.

Improved Building Strength and Durability

Closed-cell spray foam can improve a building’s strength and durability in several ways. Building studies have shown applying closed-cell SPF to wall cavities can increase racking strength (i.e., resistance to horizontal forces like high winds).

Spray foam can also resist water damage. Because the material can be both cleaned and dried, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) actually classified closed-cell SPF as an insulation material that can resist flood damage. The ability to control moisture can also help resist the formation of mold in walls, and under floors and ceilings.

Protection Against Rodents

Keeping mice and other rodents out of buildings is always problematic. Prevention is key. By using spray foam insulation to seal your home effectively, you’re more likely to prevent rodents from ever entering.

Rodents are not attracted to spray foam. Generally, it’s not something that they will chew or eat, as opposed to other forms of insulation that is more easily penetrable. Mice can enter a house through unimaginably small openings. But because SPF expands in place and fills those tiny openings, mice will no longer be able to enter.

Reduced Allergy Symptoms

Because closed-cell spray foam is resistant to water damage, this drastically reduces the formation of mold, mildew, and general dampness. Also, by using SPF to seal gaps this can provide a greater barrier against pollen, dust, and insects. Reducing these external allergens can be especially beneficial in households with allergy sufferers.

More Comfortable Home

Efficient insulation is the key to keeping your home dry and cool in the Summer and cozy warm in the Winter. Traditional insulation materials, such as cellulose or fiberglass, can’t compete with spray foam insulation when it comes to airflow and leakage. Therefore, foam insulation is the best option as it provides both heat resistance and an air seal.