Expanding foam insulation is used for ceilings, walls, attics and basements. It’s also used around window seals, electrical boxes, outlets and other small, enclosed places. Sailors use it for docks and pilots to strengthen airplane wings. What is it, and how is it applied? I will give you details on this and the other 3 insulations types, in hopes to assist you when choosing insulation.
When choosing insulation Batt and blanket should be considered. It’s is made from fiberglass and rock wool. It’s used in walls and ceilings of unfinished buildings. Contractors usually install between studs 16-24″ apart. It’s the cheapest, but without proper installation it will have a minimal effect. After installing you will need to vapor seal, house wrap or caulk.
Next we will consider rigid board when we are choosing insulation. It’s made from fiberglass, polyurethane or polystyrene. It’s used in basement walls cathedral ceilings, flat roofs and building perimeters. Rigid board is not moisture or flame resistant. Bugs often burrow in this insulation. This product required to be covered by fire resistant paneling or dry wall. I wouldn’t consider rigid board when choosing insulation.
The third to consider when choosing insulation is loose fill. This insulation is made from fiberglass or cellulose. It is blown into the walls to make a blanket effect. This insulation is used in attics and walls of unfinished buildings. It’s treated to for fire and moisture protection.
The last is Expanding Foam insulation. This insulation is my favorite when choosing insulation. It is made from modified urethane or polyurethane. The product is blown into the walls, expanding while it dries to fit the entire area. Once dry, excess is cut off and a thermal barrier is applied according to regulations.
Expanding Foam insulation has many uses. They range from finished walls, ceilings, floors, docks and airplanes. It’s especially helpful around electrical boxes, outlets, window seals and other small tight enclosed areas.
The last to consider when choosing insulation is rigid board. This is made of fiberglass polystyrene or polyurethane. It’s installed in flat roof reproofing, basement walls cathedral ceilings and perimeter insulation. Unlike expanding foam insulation it’s not flame resistant and should be covered with either fire resistant paneling or dry wall. Bugs often make nests in this insulation so insecticide treated material is needed when insulating basement walls. Because of these problems I would not pick rigid board when choosing insulation.
Expanding Foam insulation costs between $1.25 -$2.25 to install, but unlike the other, it doesn’t require extra work. It’s environmental friendly because it takes less energy to produce, does not hurt the ozone layer and reduces global warming gases. It improves air quality and reduces noise.
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