FAQ

Why do I need to seal my attic if I’m adding insulation?

Where are the big leaks in my attic?

Can I over seal my home or make it too tight?

What is the difference between open cell and closed cell foam?

How is spray foam better than traditional fiberglass?

Does spray foam support bacteria or fungal growth?

Why do I need to seal my attic if I’m adding insulation?

Fibrous insulations (fiberglass and cellulose) are not air barriers, and as such, they allow air to move through them. This results in increased energy use. Air sealing stops the escape of air from the home.

Where are the big leaks in my attic?

Typically, the biggest attic leaks are found where the walls meet the attic floor, above drop ceilings and overhangs, and behind attic walls. Look for dirty or discolored insulation to find the leaks. This indicates that air is moving through the insulation materials. There are many other “holes” in the attic ceiling that should also be sealed, such as recessed “can” lights, plumbing stacks, electrical wires, attic hatches or doors, around chimneys or flues, and duct chases. We have certified solutions for all of these areas.

Can I over seal my home or make it too tight?

While it is possible to seal a house too tightly, it is very unlikely in older homes. In new homes where we install spray foam insulation, we often recommend an energy recovery ventilation system be added. While this is an added cost, the reduction in tonnage needed to heat and cool the home can offset most or all of the cost.  A certain amount of fresh air is needed for good indoor air quality and there are specifications that set the minimum amount of fresh air needed for a house. Our BPI Certified building analyst using diagnostic tools can make sure your combustion appliances are operating properly (see www.bpi.org).

What is the difference between open cell and closed cell foam?

Open Cell foam is identified as a 0.5 pounds per cubic foot. It is made up of tiny cells of foam that are not completely closed. The cells are broken and air fills all of the “open” space inside of the material. This makes the foam have a soft feeling. Open Cell foam has an r-value of 3.4 to 4.5 per inch.

Closed Cell foam is a 2.0 pounds per cubic foot. The cells are closed and packed tight together. They are filled with gas that helps the foam rise and expand. Closed Cell foam is a greater insulator due to its denser properties. Closed Cell foam has an r-value of 5.4 to 7.2 per inch.

How is spray foam better than traditional fiberglass?

Spray foam is applied in a liquid form, and then expands. As the foam is expanding it conforms to and fills every single nook, cranny, crevices, hole, crack and gap to create a continued thermal envelope. Spray foam insulation adheres to any clean, dry surface and will not shrink, settle or disintegrate over time.

Does spray foam support bacteria or fungal growth?

Open cell and closed cell offer no food value, and is an inert substance; therefore if does not support bacteria or fungal growth.