The insulation in your home should be an important consideration when thinking about ways to conserve energy. Poor quality or damaged attic stair insulation can cost substantial amounts each year in extra energy bills while also causing your living environment to become uncomfortable. One of the best options available to combat these problems as well as others is to install Spray foam insulation.
This type of insulation is sold as liquid polyurethane and contained in bottles. It is sprayed by the user onto any area and left for a few minutes while it sets. The product is both flexible and durable in comparison with other insulation options available such as fibreglass. Because the spray is delivered in a liquid form it easily fills gaps and small holes and is also well suited to insulating small, tight areas or those with non-standard and awkward shapes. This is much easier than using fibreglass insulation boards to try and cover gaps and small cracks. The foam will dry and become a long lasting and durable solid shortly after landing on any surface, it will then require no more care or attention.
Polyurethane foam insulation will also bring health and environmental benefits when compared with other more hazardous types of insulation. The insulating foam will not release any harmful gases or crumble over time as fibreglass insulation does. This means that no floating particles will be present in the air which eliminates health risks usually associated with insulation products. This rigid foam insulation is a safe, green option.
As spray foam insulation is delivered in liquid form in can dramatically reduce heat loss and drafts in the home. It also has other benefits including the capability to keep water from entering the home once the foam has turned solid. This helps to reduce the build up of mould throughout the property. The insulation also fills small areas which may be used by insects or other pests to gain entry to the home thereby reducing potential pest control costs in the future.
It is possible for a home owner to install polyurethane foam insulation but professional installation will often be necessary. The equipment needed to complete the work can be expensive, especially if it is only to be used on one or two occasions. It will usually be more cost effective to hire a contractor to complete the work with the added assurance of a higher standard of workmanship. If you are going to attempt to complete the job yourself then it is important to plan the work before starting. You will need to identify the areas which require spray foam insulation and also those which do not as once the foam turns solid it will be extremely difficult to remove.
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