When it comes to insulating your home, there are several options available on the market, each with their own benefits and negatives. Out of all the options, spray foam insulation stands out as the best choice, offering advantages that other insulation materials simply can’t. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between spray foam insulation and other common types of insulation, explaining why spray foam is the best insulation material for property owners looking for energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term savings.
First, let’s look at all the most common types of insulation.
The Most Common Insulation Options
1. Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass insulation is made of fine glass fibers woven into fluffy material that is usually installed in batts (pre-cut sections) or loose-fill (blown into spaces). This type of insulation is affordable and simple to install compared to other types. This explains its popularity and widespread use. However, it has some downsides. Fiberglass can lose effectiveness if it becomes too compressed, and it doesn’t guarantee an airtight seal, which can cause air leakage and reduce its efficiency.
2. Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose is another common insulation material made from recycled paper products. It’s mostly installed loose-fill. It’s environmentally friendly and provides decent thermal performance. Unfortunately, like fiberglass, it can settle and compress over time, leading to airflow gaps and reduced effectiveness. Cellulose is also prone to moisture absorption, which can lead to mold growth and other insulation problems.
3. Rigid Foam Insulation
Generally made from either polystyrene, polyurethane, or polyisocyanurate, this type of insulation offers high insulating value and resists moisture well. It’s installed most often in basements, exterior walls, and roofs. While it provides good thermal resistance, it can be difficult to install in oddly-shaped spaces and doesn’t always provide a perfect seal.
Why Spray Foam is the Best Insulation Material
1. Airtight Seal
Spray foam insulation’s most notable benefit is how well it keeps an airtight seal between your space and exterior walls. Fiberglass and cellulose can develop gaps and subsequent loss of insulating value. However, spray foam expands to fill every crevice, creating a perfect barrier. This airtight seal prevents drafts, reduces energy costs, and improves comfort.
2. High R-Value
The R-value is the measure of insulation’s ability to resist heat flow. Good insulation has a high R-value. Therefore, the best insulation has the highest R-value. Spray foam insulation’s R-value is by far the highest of all types. This guarantees its long-term effectiveness and superior insulating properties.
3. Moisture Resistance
Closed-cell spray foam is completely resistant to water. That makes it a perfect choice for damp areas like basements, crawl spaces, and outdoor structures like sheds. It helps to prevent water infiltration and reduces the risk of mold growth and damage to your property. This moisture resistance also contributes to the longevity of the insulation itself as well as the overall health of the home.
4. Improved Structural Strength
Spray foam also adds structural strength to walls, roofs, and other surfaces. This can be beneficial in areas prone to extreme weather conditions, because it helps to defend the home against the elements.
5. Long-term Savings
Let’s face it: spray foam insulation costs more up front. However, with that cost you also get crucial long-term savings. The improved energy efficiency means lower heating and cooling bills, while the durability of spray foam means it won’t need to be replaced as frequently as other types of insulation – and likely never.
Call Icon Insulation Today
When comparing spray foam insulation to other insulation options, it’s clear that spray foam offers exclusive benefits in terms of energy efficiency, moisture resistance, and overall performance. Call Icon Insulation today to schedule your spray foam insulation consultation and experience the difference.