Why Spray Foam?
Insulation isn't only about what goes inside a wall or attic. It's about controlling how heat and air move through the building.
Insulation Is Part of a Bigger System
Your roof, walls, ceilings, windows, doors and insulation work together as the building envelope: the boundary between indoor conditions and the environment outside.
Traditional insulation primarily slows heat transfer. Spray foam can also help control unwanted air movement when installed as part of an appropriate assembly.
The Air-Sealing Difference
Spray foam expands during installation, allowing it to fill irregular spaces and help create an air barrier where properly applied. That combination of insulation and air control is what sets it apart, without meaning fiberglass or cellulose have no place.
How Does Spray Foam Compare?
Spray Foam
- Insulation plus air-sealing capability
- Expands to conform to irregular areas
- Professional installation required
- Higher initial cost than some options
Fiberglass
- Widely used, batt or blown
- Primarily thermal insulation
- Can perform well when properly installed
- Air sealing may need separate measures
Cellulose
- Loose-fill or dense-pack
- Common in attics and retrofits
- Primarily thermal insulation
- Air control depends on the assembly
The right choice depends on the building, the assembly and the project goal.
Spray Foam Isn't a One-Size-Fits-All Decision
The right answer depends on the existing assembly, moisture strategy, roof and attic design, ventilation, existing insulation, accessibility, project goals, budget, local code, and whether it's retrofit or new construction.
The first question shouldn't be how much foam we can sell you. It should be what the building is trying to do. Sometimes spray foam is an excellent fit. Sometimes the assembly needs more evaluation first.
Talk to an Insulation ProfessionalQuestions People Ask Before Choosing Spray Foam
Is spray foam safe after installation?
Once cured, spray foam is a stable part of the assembly. Re-entry guidance can vary by product and manufacturer, so follow the specific product guidance for your project.
Does spray foam have an odor?
There can be an odor during and shortly after application that dissipates as the foam cures.
Can it be installed in an existing home?
Yes. Existing homes and attics are common projects.
Does existing insulation need to be removed?
It depends on the assembly, condition and project plan. Some projects add to existing material; others start with removal.
Is open-cell or closed-cell better?
Neither is universally better. The right choice depends on where it is installed, the assembly and the project goal.
Is spray foam more expensive than fiberglass?
Spray foam often carries a higher initial cost than some traditional options, which is weighed against its insulation and air-sealing characteristics.
You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone
Tell us about your property and what you're trying to improve.