FAQs – Maine Spray Foam Insulation and Basement Waterproofing Services

Does spray foam add strength or rigidity to the structure?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:20:53 +0000

Yes. According to tests conducted by the National Association of Home Builders, closed-cell spray foam insulation in wall cavity applications improved racking strength 330%-400% over fiberglass insulation. Roofing foams also add structural strength. The compression strength of closed-cell roofing foams is 40-50 pounds per inch while other insulations offer 20-25 pounds per inch.

What is the cost of installing spray foam insulation and how is the cost derived?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:20:36 +0000

There are a number of variables when determining the cost quote for your project, including:

Size of area
Existing structure vs. new construction
Design and access to areas in need

We are happy to visit the building you’re looking to insulate to conduct a complimentary site analysis and explain the costs for your specific project.

Does spray foam require attic venting?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:20:05 +0000

No. Attic venting is a practice that initiated as a way to eliminate condensation from building up in the attic as a result of the temperature differences between the exterior and attic walls. Because of its moisture-barrier characteristics, spray foam insulation applied to the roof eliminates the need for cold air venting, lowering the overall annual costs.

Does spray foam perform well on metal roofs?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:19:45 +0000

Yes. However, prior to planning the project, be sure to check with the manufacturer of the metal roof to inquire about warranty considerations

Is spray foam a moisture barrier?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:19:27 +0000

Yes. Because closed-cell spray foam has cells that are closed, it will not absorb water when properly installed.

How is spray foam installed?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:18:57 +0000

Spray foam is sprayed into the wall cavity between the studs. While it’s applied as a liquid, it will expand to foam within seconds and fill gaps and open spaces–creating a permanent bond to the wood.

Where would I need spray foam insulation most?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:18:14 +0000

An on-site inspection or review of building plans would offer the greatest opportunity for deciding where spray foam insulation would best benefit your specific need.

Does using spray foam insulation create big savings on fuel?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:17:42 +0000

It certainly can. There are a number of factors that influence the use of fuel, ranging from building materials to building design to comfort and temperature preferences in the home. Typically, the fuel savings question is in regards to compensating for heat loss and gaps that contribute to air loss of the homes. When comparing use of fuel in accordance to air loss when comparing fiberglass products to spray foam, it has been tested and noted that close-cell spray foam fiberglass insulation offers 25%-40% more ‘R’ and offers significant advantages in gap filling and air loss control. The net gain of a tighter seal and higher ‘R’ value presents the opportunity of less fuel usage, which in turn can save a Maine home with 1,800 square feet around $447/year in fuel costs.

How is spray foam insulation different than fiberglass insulation?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:17:01 +0000

There are many differences, from active components to application to cost savings. While spray foam is more expensive than fiberglass and blown-in cellulose, it is the only insulation that offers an immediate reduction to energy costs due to its air barrier characteristics. Spray foam does not sag, compress, or settle over time and allows a greater protection against drafts and air loss in tight and hard to reach places.

No matter what form, fiberglass is not an air barrier and will not stop air leakage, especially at the tip and in tight places. Beyond that, the ‘R’ value or measure of insulation performance in the product is twice that of traditional fiberglass insulation products.

Specifically, spray foam offers:

Higher ‘R’ value
Liquid application to fill more gaps and create a tighter bond
No chemical or physical changes over time
Moisture barrier
Adds structural strength to walls and roofs
Can minimize sound transmission at greater levels

Will the spray foam settle or change physically over time?

swmc_access — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 21:16:40 +0000

No. The closed-cell spray foam products we use do not change chemically or physically over time.