Homeowners who air seal and insulate their homes with Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) can save up to 50% of heating and cooling costs depending on the extent and level of the application. SPF resists heat transfer better than many other insulation materials, with R-values typically in the range of 3.5 – 6.5 per one inch of thickness. (R-value is a term used to rate an insulation’s ability to resist conductive heat transfer and the higher the R-value is, the more effective the insulation’s ability is to reduce conductive heat flow.) SPF insulation minimizes air infiltration and assists in preventing moisture vapor from entering and escaping the structure thereby reducing the load on heating and cooling systems and the energy they consume to operate. In fact, HVAC sizing can also be reduced by as much as 35% without the loss of efficiency or comfort which may also translate into a capital cost saving. (Source: Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association)
SPF is also an effective air and vapour barrier and is commonly used to prevent drafts from windows, doors, attics and floor boards creating a more comfortable indoor environment. As it minimizes air infiltration through the building envelope, high humidity and condensation are prevented and therefore mildew and mold growth are also impaired, improving the safety and longevity of the structure. It also helps minimize air-borne sound transmission and effectively impedes the entry of insects and pests by sealing gaps from the outside.
As SPF is spray applied on-site, it can seal small cracks as well as insulate large areas including walls and roofs making them easy to cover in a relatively short amount of time. Resistive to settling due to its general stability, SPF typically will not subject to structural deterioration or decomposition and resists settling unlike more traditional insulation products. Depending on the application(s), your SPF contractor may deploy different types of SPF on a single project.
The energy savings obtained by air sealing homes is significant enough that the purchase and use of SPF products may qualify for grants, rebates or tax credits through Canada’s ecoENERGY Retrofit-homes initiative as well as provincial programs like Ontario’s Home Energy Savings Program. SPF also conforms to the National Building Code of Canada and may deliver up to 13 points in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design projects (LEED). In the United States, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allows for a tax credit of 30% on the purchase of energy efficient products including SPF.
GMW Restoration Services can get you on the road to lower energy costs and comfortable homes and offices. Contact us for your no-obligation quote to provide spray foam insulation to your project.