Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a spray-applied plastic that can form a continuous insulation and air sealing barrier on walls, roofs, around corners, and on all contoured surfaces. It is made by mixing and reacting unique liquid components at the job site to create foam. The liquids react very quickly when mixed, expanding on contact to create foam that insulates, seals gaps, and can form moisture and vapor barriers. SPF insulation is known to resist heat transfer extremely well, and it offers a highly effective solution in reducing unwanted air infiltration through cracks, seams, and joints.
R – value is the most common measure of the insulating qualities maintained by an insulation material; it is a measure of thermal resistance. The greater the R – value, the more effective are the insulation material’s insulating qualities. It is, however, important to note that a manufacturer’s R – value applies only to properly installed insulation, with improperly installed insulation systems being far less effective. Conventional fiberglass batt and blown-in insulation systems may actually perform at a much lower level than indicated by their R – value, depending on how well they have been installed.
The R – value of insulation is substantially diminished with the presence of air leakage. Often, over 40% of a home’s heat loss can be attributed to air leakage.
By using spray foam insulation, installed by a certified Spray Foam Insulation Ottawa professional, the issue of air leakage is eliminated. Spray foam insulation seals your home completely, making it 100% airtight. Spray foam insulation is seamless, making it more efficient than any other material used to insulate a structure. The R – value of medium density spray foam insulation is well over two times that of conventional fiberglass batt insulation, provided the latter is operating under ideal conditions. Medium density spray foam insulation has the highest R – value per inch of any insulation available.
