Insulation plays a critical role in your home’s energy efficiency, keeping it warm during the winter and cool during the summer. When properly installed, a fresh layer of insulation can significantly cut down your heating and cooling bills and help keep pests out of the attic.

The type and amount of attic insulation you need depends on a number of factors, including the climate where you live and the age of your house. The “R” value of an insulation, which measures its resistance to the conductive flow of heat, is also important. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.

Loose-fill cellulose and fiberglass are the most popular options for attic insulation. These are inexpensive and do a good job of providing an R-value of around 3.5 per inch. The CDC recommends making sure your attic insulation is at least five to six inches thick.

Beyond the Basics: Innovative Applications of Spray Foam Insulation in Home Improvement

Another option is spray foam, which can seal air leaks and insulate at the same time. It can be quite expensive, though, and it requires professional installation. If you choose this option, be aware that the chemicals used to make the foam can irritate your skin and eyes and may cause rashes and other symptoms if they come in contact with it. In addition, the professionals who install this type of insulation must wear protective gear that includes a mask and goggles.

Be sure to identify uncovered electrical boxes and other objects before insulating an attic space. Some insulated materials can cover these items and block proper ventilation, which can allow carbon monoxide to leach into your home and cause flu-like symptoms.

Spray Pro Insulation
1155 Commerce Blvd N, Sarasota, FL 34243, United States
863-205-7111

Proseal Spray Foam is a popular and effective way to add insulation and create a seal in your home. Its air-sealing properties help keep energy costs low, while improving comfort and reducing unwanted noise from the outdoors or neighbors. But what exactly is it made of and how does it work? South Central Services receives this question from many of our customers, and we’d like to provide some helpful information.

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a composite material created by two liquid chemical components that undergo a chemical reaction when they meet at the tip of a spray gun. The chemicals are kept in separate hoppers or tanks and transported through gas pressure or a liquid until they are ready to meet at the tip of the spray gun, at which point they react to create the plastic foam. These chemicals are typically called the A side and the B side, but each spray foam manufacturer has its own proprietary blend of chemicals.

The Science Behind Proseal Spray Foam Insulation

When choosing your spray foam insulation, look for a product that uses a blowing agent with low global warming potential (GWP). The HFCs used to be commonly found in many products, but there are now a number of manufacturers using alternative blowing agents that have significantly lower GWPs, including Ecomate CM01 by BASF and Genyk Boreal Nature by Gensun. These newer, patented ingredients are not as harmful to the environment as the former HFCs, and are also safer for workers to use in their application.

“Proseal Spray Foam
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825 W Main St, Hortonville, WI 54944
(715) 467-7165

Measuring Depth of Attic Insulation

The Foam Guy in most attics will reveal the tried-and-true materials that are typically used to insulate homes — fiberglass batt insulation, cellulose, mineral wool and spray foam. Each type has its advantages, but they all work essentially the same way. The key to effective insulation is to get the right R-value based on your climate zone, proper installation and air sealing.

The easiest way to assess your attic insulation is by measuring its depth. This can be done using a ruler or tape measure inserted into the insulation, but you’ll need to take measurements in multiple locations for an average. Be sure to wear a headlamp so you can see the areas you’re measuring, and don’t forget to bring a respirator mask to protect your lungs from attic dust particles.

How Attic Insulation for Summer Heat Improves Comfort”

You’ll also need to determine what R-value your current insulation has – you’ll find this information on the product label or in the manufacturer’s specifications. Generally, fiberglass insulation has an R-value of 3 to 3.5 per inch. The next step is to subtract your current R-value from the recommended value for your climate zone. The result will indicate how much additional insulation you need to achieve the desired level.

In addition to ensuring that the insulation is in place, you should also check that it doesn’t block or clog your attic soffit vents – a common problem. This can be a tricky issue to resolve on your own, and you should consult with an insulation professional for more advice.

The Foam Guy
642 Moffitt Hill Rd, Old Fort NC 28762
(828) 808-6923‬