Q- What is spray foam insulation?

A- SPF (Spray Polyurethane Foam) is a spray-on applied plastic composed of two materials which when mixed together, cause a chemical reaction and expand rapidly forming a strong bond filling the wall and roof cavities to insulate and seal from air infiltration and air leaks. SPF resists heat transfer extremely well which offers a highly effective solution in reducing and eliminating unwanted air infiltration and air leaks.

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Q- Can I be in the building when SPF is being applied?

A- The Saskatchewan Builders code and provincial regulations state that all occupants must vacate the building for 24 hours once SPF is applied. 

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Q- Is spray foam safe? Is there a smell afterwards?

A- Yes, spray foam is 100% safe. The gas that is released during the installation process is a result of the two chemicals reacting. This is known as off-gassing, which is why we require the occupants to vacate the building once the installation process has begun for a period of 24 hours after SPF has been applied. This will allow for the foam to fully off-gas. Once the 24 hour period is complete, the home will be completely safe to live in and there will be no trace of any scents associated with the foam. 

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Q- What is the difference between conventional insulation and spray foam?

A- Fiberglass insulation comes in thick sheets or rolls of fibrous material called batts. It’s a very common material used to insulate buildings in North America. You may save in cost but you pay for it in effectiveness. Fiberglass insulation does help to filter cold air out to some degree, but it has no true air seal. Air will still flow in and out of your house or building with this type of insulation. Easy installation is another reason fiberglass is so popular. Homeowners can normally install this themselves, although it’s always best to hire a professional to ensure proper installation. Keep in mind that fiberglass batts sag and deteriorate over time. This means you’re left with gaps that don’t provide any insulation at all, and what your left with is major air infiltration. In order to maintain a certain indoor ambient temperature, you must eliminate air infiltration and leaks as air infiltration causes major energy loss.  There are so many places air can escape and infiltrate your home such as: behind knee walls, attic hatches, wiring holes, plumbing vents, open soffits, recessed lights, furnace flue and duct chaseways, basement rim joints, and of course the biggest contributor being windows and doors. SPF seals all of these areas, so your home can easily maintain any ambient temperature you choose, not to mention you will be saving hundreds on heating and cooling costs!

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Q- At what point in building / renovating should spray foam be applied?

A- Spray foam is usually applied prior to drywall installation, however it can be applied in attics, around windows and doors and in basements at any point, even once the home is fully completed. SPF can also be applied to the walls of an existing home, however it is very invasive as you must remove the existing drywall in order to expose the wall cavity.

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Q- What is an R-value?

A- An R-Value is the rating system used to grade insulation products or a material's insulating properties. The “R” stands for “resistance” and refers to the resistance a material has to heat flow, or temperature conduction. When a product or home has a high R-Value, this means it is well insulated. 

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Q- How long does spray foam insulation last?
A: If the Spray foam is undisturbed and shielded from direct sunlight, spray foam will last the lifetime of the structure.

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Q- What are some of the other benefits of choosing spray foam?

A- Great question! SPF has many added benefits! Here is a list of the most important benefits to consider when choosing SPF insulation:

- SPF greatly minimizes airborne sound transmission throughout the building

- SPF seals leaks preventing drafts which creates a comfortable indoor environment

- SPF provides indoor ambient temperature control by creating a sealed environment 

- SPF not only seals from moisture and air leaks / infiltration but also seals against pollen, dust and insects which provides a healthy and uncontaminated environment for those with allergies

- Homeowners may qualify for tax incentives, rebates, grants or certificates when they choose SPF over conventional insulation

-SPF improves efficiency and has been proven to lower energy costs immensely

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Q- Can I leave spray foam exposed on my walls?

A- The Saskatchewan Builders code and provincial regulations state that all spray foam must be covered by a fire resistant material such as drywall. A standard sheet of 1/2" drywall can offer up to half an hour of fire resistance. 

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Q- Does spray foam have to be replaced if my home floods or suffers water damage?

A- Absolutely not! If a flood occurs, unlike conventional insulation, you don't have to remove SPF as it is completely water and moisture resistant. Conventional insulation absorbs water, which will "climb" the wall and dampen the drywall as well, which can lead to mold and mildew, costing you more in repairs and renovations! 

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Q- I heard that SPF increases the strength and durability of the structure it is applied to, is this true?

A- Yes! Since SPF expands, adheres and conforms to the area in which it is applied, it achieves maximum surface contact between the cavity creating a durable, solid wall or roof. Because of this, and SPF's non porous composition, SPF eliminates water seepage through weak spots and homes and buildings which have had SPF applied, are less prone to wind and water damage. SPF acts as a "glue" to hold the building together which greatly enhances the overall structural integrity and it also gretly enhances wind and pressurization resistance.

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