Does Spray Foam Insulation Off-Gas In Colorado?
Spray foam insulation is present in millions of homes. It’s easy to see why people choose this over other options. Besides being able to create a superior thermal envelope, it offers noise reduction, moisture resistance, airtight seals, and lower energy bills. Yet some are wary about possible negative effects on health and wellness, particularly due to off gassing spray foam insulation. Many of these claims are overblown. Read on to find out the truth behind spray foam misconceptions and discover how reputable insulation contractors ensure client safety.
Important Information About Spray Foam Off-Gas & VOCs
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A lot of common household products off-gas; that is, they release volatile organic compounds into the air. These include household cleaning solutions, refrigerants, hairsprays, wall paint, adhesives, composite woods, rugs, carpets, mattresses, scented candles, and air freshers. Several types of insulation off-gas as well, such as fiberglass, polystyrene, and spray foam.
VOCs are potentially harmful chemicals. These compounds often build up inside homes over time. Concentrations can be up to 10x greater indoors compared to outdoors. Homeowners can lower the risk by buying low-VOC product options, improving ventilation, avoiding peak off-gas periods, and hiring experienced insulation installation contractors.
Is Spray Foam Insulation Dangerous?
With proper handling, spray foam insulation is not dangerous whatsoever. It will only off-gas immediately after installation, so move out before work starts. After a prescribed period, you can re-enter your home with confidence and resume your normal life. You don’t even have to think about it. Just enjoy the improved household comfort and other perks.
Manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to enhance safety. Premium spray foam products with new formulations have lower VOC content than cheap products with old formulations. If you choose one of the low VOC options, then you won’t have to worry about off-gas. Reduced exposure will keep you, your family, and your pets safe. Furthermore, your insulation contractor will discuss any period of time that you will need to be out of the home and when it is safe to return home.
What to Watch Out For
Off-gassing can irritate people who are sensitive to odors. The strong smell can be distracting. It prevents them from working at home, enjoying entertainment, or even sleeping soundly at night. They can open the doors and windows to make the offending gas dissipate. Using a fan can improve air circulation and hasten the process.
Off-gassing may also trigger pre-existing conditions. Individuals who have ailments such as asthma and other respiratory issues are more vulnerable than the general population. It is a good idea for them to wait for off-gassing to finish before re-entry.
Installing a Safe Spray Foam in Your Home
Be Mindful Of The Spray Foam Material’s Specifications
Before you welcome any product into your house, you should try to be aware of its composition. This is true for furniture, construction materials, toys, and insulation. Spray foam products are not made equal. Some are more toxic than others, so you shouldn’t lump them all together and bar them from your home. Look for the safest versions among all those available in your area. You can ask for the help of an expert to find an acceptable solution.
Check The Recommended Re-Entry Times After Spray Foam Installation Fort Collins
These products should include information about proper application and recommended re-entry times. Some might off-gas for only a few hours, after which you can come back to your home as if nothing happened. Others will tell you to stay away for at least 24 or 48 hours. Heed the advice of the manufacturer for your own well-being.
Why You Should Choose a Reputable Colorado Insulation Contractor
If you are concerned about spray foam off-gas, then the best way to allay your fears is to choose a reputable insulation contractor. Professionals with proven knowledge and experience in the field can provide expert guidance. They will also implement best practices in every project, giving you the confidence to move forward with your plans. In addition, you can be sure that this kind of contractor will do the following:
Use a Low-VOC Spray Foam
You won’t have to spend time researching different products in the quest for safety. The best contractors will provide you with excellent insulation options, including low VOC spray foam. These will give you the known benefits of spray foam insulation, such as high R-value, good soundproofing, moisture resistance, and airtight seals — all while providing a safer environment thanks to drastically reduced off-gas.
Ensure Correct Ventilation
The best contractors will set up the house properly before starting the spray foam application. They will open doors and windows in key areas to prevent indoor gas build-up and improve air circulation. They may even bring large fans to push the air out at a faster rate. This protects them while they do their work and prevents foul odors from sticking to different materials. They will follow all the safety guidelines regarding spray foam ventilation.
Recommend Proper Re-Occupancy Times
Experienced contractors are familiar with most products on the market. Using these in the past made them understand the quirks of each. They know how long people must wait before going back to occupy their homes. They can recommend safe re-occupancy times based not just on the manufacturer’s advice, but also the current environmental conditions and project scope.
Deploy Highly Skilled Workers
The best contractors take the job seriously. They train their workers well and continue to sharpen their skills to keep up with new products. By deploying highly skilled workers, they can achieve better results, including safer installation and excellent spray foam insulation performance. They avoid costly mistakes.
Conclusion
While it’s true that spray foam produces gas, this is limited to the period immediately after installation. Off-gassing stops once the insulation has cured and achieved its stable solid form. Homeowners don’t need to worry because they can simply leave while the process is ongoing and come back when they get the green light. They won’t have to deal with the smell or the VOCs. Proper ventilation will push all these out of the way. Thanks to the work of reputable contractors, families can quickly and safely resume regular activities in their newly insulated home.
Off Gassing Spray Foam Insulation Fort Collins, CO
When it concerns insulation, consulting with a professional insulation company is the best option. There are a lot of factors to consider when determining what type of insulation works best for your home. 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
(970) 420-5495