Clearing Up Fallacies About Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is a popular choice for many homeowners looking to improve the energy efficiency of their homes. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about spray foam insulation that can lead to confusion and misinformation. Instead, it’s important for property owners to know some spray foam insulation facts.
In this article, we will clear up some of the most common misconceptions about spray foam insulation so that you can make an informed decision when considering this type of insulation for your home. Always remember the importance of hiring a reputable professional like Ascend Construction.
Common Misunderstandings About Spray Foam Insulation
Contents
- Common Misunderstandings About Spray Foam Insulation
- Myth #1: Difficulty Of Spray Foam Installation
- Myth #2: Spray Foam Insulation Is Expensive
- Myth #3: Spray Foam Insulation & Harmful Chemicals
- Myth #4: Spray Foam Insulation Causes Mold Growth
- Myth #5: Spray Foam Insulation Can Cause Health Problems
- Myth #6: Spray Foam Insulation Can Damage Your Home
- Myth #7: Spray Foam Insulation Is Difficult To Remove
- Myth #8: Spray Foam Insulation Isn’t Fire-Resistant
- Conclusion
- Spray Foam Insulation Facts In Fort Collins, Colorado
Keep reading to explore some of the misconceptions that exist about spray foam insulation.
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Myth #1: Difficulty Of Spray Foam Installation
The first misconception about spray foam insulation is that it is difficult to install. This is not the case at all when working with a professional. Spray foam insulation is actually quite easy to install and requires minimal preparation. All that is needed is a clean surface, such as drywall or wood, and a few tools, such as a caulking gun and protective gear. The installation process itself only takes a few hours and can be completed by a professional insulation contractor in a reasonable time frame. This type of insulation is difficult to install for those that lack the proper training.
Myth #2: Spray Foam Insulation Is Expensive
Another common misconception about spray foam insulation is that it is expensive. While it may cost more upfront than other types of insulation, such as fiberglass or cellulose, it will save you money in the long run due to its superior energy efficiency. Spray foam insulation also has a much longer lifespan than other types of insulation, meaning you won’t have to replace it as often. Additionally, many states offer tax credits for installing spray foam insulation which can help offset the initial cost.
Related Article: The Importance Of Home Air Sealing On Energy Costs In Colorado
Myth #3: Spray Foam Insulation & Harmful Chemicals
A third misconception about spray foam insulation is that it emits harmful chemicals into the air during installation. This could not be further from the truth! Spray foam insulation does not emit any harmful chemicals into the air during installation or after installation has been completed. While some types of spray foam do contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), these are only present during installation and dissipate quickly after application. Many manufacturers now offer low-VOC or zero-VOC options so you don’t have to worry about any potential health risks associated with VOCs in your home. In fact, spray foam insulation has been tested and certified by several organizations, including Greenguard Gold and UL Environment Greenguard Certification Program, which certify products for low chemical emissions into indoor air during product usage.
Myth #4: Spray Foam Insulation Causes Mold Growth
Some people believe that spray foam insulation will cause mold growth in their homes due to its moisture-resistant properties. This is definitely not true. Spray foam actually helps prevent mold growth by creating an airtight seal around your home which prevents moisture from entering your walls and ceilings where mold can grow unchecked. Additionally, if there are any existing areas of mold growth in your home prior to installing spray foam insulation, they should be addressed before installation begins in order to ensure proper protection against future mold growth.
Related Article: What Are The Pros And Cons Of Spray Foam Insulation?
Myth #5: Spray Foam Insulation Can Cause Health Problems
This misconception stems from the fact that some types of spray foam contain chemicals like formaldehyde which can be hazardous if inhaled or ingested in large quantities. However, modern spray foams are formulated with non-toxic ingredients and are safe for use in residential applications when installed properly by a professional contractor. Additionally, any off-gassing associated with these products dissipates quickly after installation, so there should be no long-term health concerns associated with using them in your home.
Related Article: How Does Insulation Affect Heat Loss?
Myth #6: Spray Foam Insulation Can Damage Your Home
This misconception likely comes from stories of people who have used DIY kits or improperly installed their own spray foam insulation, which can cause damage if not done correctly. However, when installed properly by a professional contractor, there should be no risk of damage to your home from using this type of insulation. In fact, many homeowners find that their homes become more structurally sound after installing spray foam due to its superior air sealing capabilities, which help reduce drafts and improve overall comfort and energy efficiency.
Myth #7: Spray Foam Insulation Is Difficult To Remove
This misconception probably comes from reviews of people who have tried unsuccessfully to remove their own DIY kits or improperly installed their own spray foam insulation, which can be difficult if not done correctly. However, when professionally installed by an experienced contractor, removal should not be difficult at all as long as proper safety precautions are taken during the process, such as wearing protective gear and using appropriate tools for removal purposes only (not cutting). Additionally, many contractors offer removal as part of their services, so you don’t have to worry about doing it yourself if you don’t feel comfortable doing so.
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Myth #8: Spray Foam Insulation Isn’t Fire-Resistant
Finally, some people believe that spray foam insulation isn’t fire resistant or doesn’t provide adequate protection against fire hazards in the home. This isn’t true either; while traditional fiberglass and cellulose insulations are more fire resistant than spray foam, modern closed-cell spray foams are highly fire resistant and provide excellent protection against fire hazards in the home. In addition, many manufacturers now offer flame retardant additives, which further increase the fire resistance of their products without sacrificing any performance benefits.
Related Article: How Better Attic Insulation Improves Indoor Air Quality In Colorado
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are a lot of misconceptions out there when it comes to spray foam insulation, but hopefully, this article has helped clear up some of them so that you can make an informed decision when considering whether or not this type of insulation is right for your home. Spray foam insulation offers superior energy efficiency and protection against fire hazards and mold growth – while being easy to install and relatively affordable compared to other types of insulations on the market today. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency without breaking the bank!
Related Article: Do I Need to Remove Old Insulation Before Installing New Spray Foam in Colorado?
Spray Foam Insulation Facts In Fort Collins, Colorado
To receive the many benefits that proper insulation has to offer, work with a professional insulation company for the best results. They can consider all of the necessary factors that will improve efficiency, comfort, and more. Ascend Construction specializes in insulation removal and installation, energy conservation, energy audits, whole house fan installations, and more in Fort Collins, Colorado, and the neighboring areas.
Contact Ascend Construction for a free consultation today. We can provide you with practical solutions to address the problem areas in your Fort Collins home. All of our services are affordable, and our work is guaranteed. Click here to contact us, or click the button below to give Ascend Construction a call. We offer free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.
Ascend Construction
301 S Howes St #1241
Fort Collins, CO, 80521