Myths about Spray Foam Insulation

There are a lot of misconceptions about spray foam insulation. From its safety to its effectiveness, people always seem to be questioning if it is a good option for their home or business. The MPI foam team is here to bust all of the myths and guide your decision-making process. Here are 8 myths you may have heard through the grapevine; but don’t worry, we’re here to help clear that up.

 

Spray foam insulation smells.

 

If spray foam is installed and cured properly, it should not have any type of smell. The only times there could be issues with spray foam emitting odors is when an inexperienced spray foam technician doesn’t follow the correct insulation instructions when applying the foam. This can include but is not limited to; incorrect mix ratios, temperature settings or a batch of bad material from the foam supplier.

 

Spray foam insulation absorbs water.

 

Open-cell spray foam will allow moisture to pass through it through bi-directional drying and wick in the event of a leak to eliminate the chance of condensation and mold growth.

Closed-cell spray foam insulation on the other hand is a vapor barrier and does not allow moisture to pass through it. Closed-cell foam is a great application for foundation exterior walls (both basement and crawl space) as well as wine cellars.

Spray foam is full of dangerous chemicals.

 

Our professional spray foam installers wear protective gear while spraying, and we ask residents to leave the area for at least 24 hours during and after spray foam installation. This is done and regulated for a reason, as the 2 part foam is applied it takes between 12-24 hours for the foam to set and dry. Once the allotted time period is up, the completed insulation is safe to be around.

If I already have traditional insulation, I can’t switch to spray foam.

 

If you have already had traditional insulation and decide to make the switch to the many benefits of spray foam, the traditional insulation can be removed if needed before upgrading to spray foam. We recommend making the switch, as it is also a great way to improve air circulation and reduce your heating and cooling cost; it is a great investment financially.

 

Spray foam insulation is dangerous to have in any household because of chemicals and does not meet air barrier code requirements.

 

Spray foam insulation is just as safe as commonly used fiberglass insulation. The idea that spray foam insulation does not meet air barrier code requirements is false. Closed-cell spray foam meets air barrier code requirements for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, the International Code Council, and the Air Barrier Association of America.

 

Spray foam insulation’s only benefit is that it helps control the temperate of your house.

 

Spray foam insulation offers more than just energy efficiency for your house. It also adds additional support to your housing structure, lasts over 80 years, and creates sound barrier efficiency. Spray foam insulation is the first line of defense in saving energy on your home.

 

Anyone can install spray foam insulation in a house.

 

Trained professionals are the only ones who know how to mix the solution and apply it properly. If the spray foam insulation is not mixed correctly it can cause problems in the future for the homeowner. Spray foam insulation should only be applied by professionals.

If you are ready to experience the best in spray foam insulation, then contact the spray foam insulation experts at 844-MPI-FOAM. We look forward to working with you!


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