Closed-Cell Spray Foam is Revolutionizing Energy Efficiency -- As Amazing as That Sounds (Part Three)

By Katie McVay

If you've been tuning in, you already know that our latest articles deal with using closed-cell spray foam as a way to increase the energy efficiency of new and existing buildings. If you need to catch up with what we've been talking about, you can read the spray foam introduction, or skip ahead to our post about what closed-cell spray foam is.  

This week, we'll talk about application.

As with most insulations, application is the key to reaping the full benefits of closed-cell spray foam. If improperly installed, closed-cell spray foam could actually negatively impact the building envelope. For instance, if it's installed unevenly, it may not achieve the proper air barrier needed to prevent costly air leaks. But if properly installed - using the correct product formulation, manufacturer-suggested application, etc - closed-cell spray foam will provide lasting occupant comfort and building protection for the lifetime of the structure.

The two-component insulation is sprayed in place using a long hose with a nozzle attached, and allowed to expand to fill gaps, crevices, holes, and voids. Closed-cell spray foam is applied in 0.5" to 1.5" passes, or lifts, until the desired thickness is achieved. Excess foam can be trimmed easily. However, most applications don't require shaving of the product.

Technically, spray foam is manufactured on site by the installer, in a process that combines the two components inside the hose applicator. There's alot of chemistry going on in that process, something we won't bore you with here. Suffice to say, installing spray foam is both an art and a science.

Stay tuned next week when we discuss all the benefits associated with closed-cell spray foam.