Insulation Alternatives: Sprayed Foam Insulation

Foam insulation that is sprayed into place and then expands to fill cavities

Sprayed foam insulation is sprayed into wall cavities and expands to fill all the nooks and crannies. This very effective insulation does not shrink, sag, settle, or biodegrade. By acting as an air barrier, sprayed foam insulation provides insulation and air sealing in one step. It is ideal for filling small spaces where cutting fiberglass batt insulation to fit can be difficult and labor-intensive.

Sprayed foam materials cost more than traditional fiberglass batt insulation. However, since sprayed foam forms both an insulation and an air barrier, it can be cost competitive with batt insulation because it eliminates the steps for air-tightness detailing (such as caulking, applying housewrap and vapor barrier, and taping joints). As a result, it also reduces construction time and the number of specialized contractors. In addition, most foam insulation products have a higher R-value per inch than fiberglass batt insulation. This increases energy efficiency by allowing downsizing of the heating and cooling system equipment.

The installed cost for sprayed foam insulation runs about $1.25 to $2.25 per square foot, depending on wall thickness and type of foam.

Courtesy of PATH

www.pathnet.org/homeowners