In the building and construction industry, many types of insulation are used in different applications. One of the more talked about types of insulation is spray foam. When comparing different types of insulation, spray foam tends to consistently come out on top. There are a number of reasons for this which we will explore shortly. But first it is helpful to understand what spray foam is.

What Is Spray Foam?

Spray foam is a chemical compound that is used as an insulator in the building and construction industry. While there are many different brands and types of spray foam, they generally work on a similar principal. Chemical compounds are mixed together and this results in foam being formed. This foam can then be sprayed on an area to insulate it. As the foam settles on the area, it expands and then hardens to form an insulating barrier.  In large construction projects, specialized contractors will apply the spray foam. However, spray foam is also available in handy DIY kits that homeowners can use for smaller applications.

What Advantages Does Spray Foam Have over Other Insulators?

One of the great advantages of spray foam is that it can be used to get into and insulate hard-to-reach places. If there are small cracks or crevasses, the spray foam can easily be applied to seal up the area. Spray foam creates a more efficient seal and insulator because it can spread out evenly. Compare this to other types of insulators that come in mats. They have to be measured and cut to size which is a tedious and messy task. Even then you can’t be assured they will fit properly. You can use spray foam to insulate both small and large surfaces. It comes in many different types and is used for different applications. High-density spray foam can be used to weatherproof an area as it is water repellent and moisture-resistant. This means that it can help prevent damage caused by rising damp in walls. The tight seal that spray foam forms also prevents insects and vermin from entering your home. This helps to preserve the value of your home.

Spray foam is relatively easy to apply. Kits are available that you can order online and use to insulate your home. The instructions are easy to follow and all the necessary equipment is provided. Spray foam hardens quickly which means that your home insulation DIY project needn’t take all weekend. Spray foam can be used to insulate walls, ceilings, roofs, and floorboards. It is also excellent for soundproofing.  It can be used to add extra insulation to your TV or music room so neighbors and other members of the household are not disturbed when you are watching TV at a high volume.

Long-term Benefits of Insulating Your Home with Spray Foam

When your home is well insulated, you will be making a more efficient use of your energy resources. Because spray foam has a high density and gets into all the nooks and crannies, it is rated as one of the most efficient types of insulators. This means that whatever heating or cooling systems you have installed in your home will be more effective because more of the heat is retained inside the house. In the warmer summer months, when you have the air conditioning running, good insulation will ensure that the warm air from outside doesn’t seep into your home and that the air being circulated inside your home remains cool. By making your home more energy efficient, you will be inadvertently "greening" your home and contributing to environmental efforts. An added benefit is that you will save money on your utility bills. In the long term, this can amount to substantial savings that will far outweigh the costs of installing the spray foam insulation in the first place.

Spray foam is also very durable. In certain types of construction, such as wooden homes, spray foam can be used to help strengthen as well as insulate the building. This helps to increase the lifespan of the building as well as its resale value. Spray foam is not only effective as a temperature barrier. It can also protect your home against moisture buildup, insects and vermin. It therefore helps you to maintain your home with less effort. Even a standard brick home that is well insulated with spray foam will be able to command a better resale value.