Wondering how spray foam actually works?
You're not alone.
It’s one of the most common questions asked by our customers, so we felt it was only appropriate go into a little more detail for those of you that are interested
The old adage 'looks can be deceiving’ can definitely be applied to Spray Foam; although it starts out as a lightweight, liquid formulation, on application, it expands up to 100 times its liquid volume, sealing every nook and cranny in the process.
What does this mean for you?
Well for one, it creates comfortable conditions inside.
First, let’s consider some of the problems you might face without spray foam……
Our weird and wonderful weather often subjects us to rapid changes in temperature, which can in turn actually lead to burst pipes and a boiler on the blink. Not good!
Both of these issues are caused by extremes of cold.
Water inside the pipe will expand as it gets close to freezing, causing a build-up of pressure in the pipe. Once this level of pressure becomes untenable, the pipe will inevitably rupture, leading to leaks.
Spray Foam to the Rescue!
When situations such as the above start to surface, spray foam can quickly come to the rescue in one of two ways.
Firstly, the superior seal it provides prevents draughts from infiltrating the internal space. Draughts drive down the temperature inside, consequently leading to colder conditions within. Bad news for your comfort, and bad news for your boiler and pipework as well.
By insulating key areas of the home with spray foam, you create a more ambient temperature within. This will prevent the extremes of cold that compromise your comfort and play havoc with your pipework in the process.
Do DIY Spray Foam Kits Work Just As Effectively?
Although our team of professionally trained installers make the whole application process look easy, getting it right the first time is nigh-on impossible for an untrained amateur. (No offence!)
This is why we always stress time and time again that installing spray foam is a highly specialised job that should only be attempted by a fully licensed contractor such as Pinnacle.
Not only does the foam have to be mixed in the correct ratio; it also has to be applied in the correct amount to achieve different levels of thickness, depending on the specifications of the job.
Failure to do so will result in all manner of potential problems: from the foam 'bulging' out from the rafters (have a quick Google image search….I’m sure you’ll get the idea!), to general issues with 'off-gassing.'
Yes, you may save some money by opting for a DIY spray foam kit, but the likelihood of running into problems is alarmingly high-why take the risk in the long run?
Using a BBA approved company such as ourselves will allow you to sit back and relax while our team will tackle the entire task on your behalf, and ensure that the job is completed correctly the first time.
Installing Spray Foam Insulation: The Process
Before they begin, our team will ensure that every room requiring insulation is thoroughly protected by plastic sheeting, ensuring that the product remains contained within the designated areas just as it should do.
They'll also ensure that they too are wearing Personal Protective Equipment (known as PPE in the industry), with the requisite high-quality equipment to achieve a successful spray foam installation.
So, what exactly do the team get up to whilst they're working at your loft space? Take a look at the step by step procedure listed below to get a better idea of what to expect:
Step 1: Check & Attach Air Baffles
These are also called vents. They direct air flow through the ceiling space. They help to moderate the temperature in the attic and protect against water condensation damage.
They should be stapled to the underside of the eaves before you spray your foam insulation.
Step 2: Fill the Gaps
We make sure that we take your time to fill all the gaps between the rafters, so that there are no spaces for air to circulate outside.
This will help greatly in avoiding heating costs from a roof which does not retain the heat in cold weather.
Step 3: Spray Foam Installation
Our expert team will begin the process of applying the spray foam.
The foam will spread and expand, so it is essential to keep the foam to the required depth. (You see what we mean about letting us do the hard work for you?!)
Step 4: Allow Foam to Dry:
Once the spray foam has been applied, we let it dry completely before trimming off any excess, or overflow areas.
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF SPRAY FOAM INSULATION