How To Insulate Your House With Spray Foam
Adequate insulation is an important part of any home. It can cut down on your utility bill and keep the air in your house at a pleasant temperature. Unfortunately, older homes may not have been built with proper insulation. Insulation technology has come a long way in recent years, and there are now cheaper and more effective methods of insulation available.
1. Decide on open cell or closed cell spray foam.
There are two types of spray foam, and the one you should pick will depend on your needs. Closed cell foam is more dense, and it provides better insulation. If you live somewhere with extreme temperatures, closed cell foam is a good choice for your insulation material. However, open cell foam has its benefits too. According to Tiger Foam Insulation, open cell foam expands more readily. That means it's great for filling large areas or getting into tight corners. It also provides some sound-dampening qualities, which is great for anyone trying to insulate a bedroom or music studio. Open cell foam is useful for people who live in moderate climates.
2. Purchase the necessary equipment.
Once you've selected the right type of spray foam, you will need to obtain the equipment needed to apply it. Spray foam equipment comes in hydraulic, electric, and air-propelled varieties. For home application, you will probably want to select an electric machine. This machine will heat the chemical components of the spray foam and mix them in the proper proportions so you can apply them with a spray nozzle. Compressed air will propel the mixture for application.
3. Protect your clothing and skin.
Spray foam is very difficult to remove once it has been applied, so you'll want to protect any surface that you don't want covered in spray foam. Wear clothes that you don't mind throwing away; long pants and long-sleeved shirts are best, since they will protect your skin. Tie back your hair if necessary and wear safety goggles. You should also wear a face mask to protect your lungs from odors and chemical fumes.
4. Apply spray foam carefully and thoroughly.
Finally, when you're applying spray foam to areas of your home that need insulation, make sure to work methodically. Missing certain areas will allow air to leak through, degrading the quality of your insulation. When you're finished, there should be no gaps in your spray foam. Make sure to apply a thick enough layer, as well.