The lifetime cost of Foam Insulation: Less than you expected

Spray foam insulation is indeed one of the most expensive insulation methods on the market these days. The relatively higher cost is related to the high required standard of workmanship, the equipment required to successfully complete the installation process, and the impressive benefits a building owner can enjoy for a lifetime. 

Different from conventional insulation methods like cellulose and fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation has simply way more to offer. And the initial investment will eventually pay for itself within the first years in lower energy bills and an increase in the quality of living indoors. In this article, we will compare spray foam insulation with cellulose and fiberglass insulation. Those and more, after taking a look at the benefits of spray foam insulation. 

Supreme Lifespan

Spray foam insulation has an estimated life expectancy that varies from 80 up to 100 years. And that can be achieved with little to no maintenance at all. The material is strong and it can last for as long as your building can. 

Different from cellulose and fiberglass, spray foam does not deteriorate, sag, or settle. When you think about deterioration, you should consider the maintenance cost that unfortunately can increase the initial investment by several times. Luckily, spray foam insulation does not have such weaknesses. All it takes to enjoy the benefits of spray foam for over a century is a professional insulation crew experienced enough to properly handle the installation process.

Higher R-Value

Simply put, R-Value is the measuring unit that indicates the performance of an insulation system. Understandably, the higher the R-Value the better it is. A high R-Value scores the ability of an insulation layer to resist the airflow and consequently the heat flow. 

The main goal of an insulation system is to prevent heat transfer by keeping the warm air inside in the winter and the cold air outside, and vice versa in the summer days. And this is how energy efficiency is earned. By making HVAC systems spend less energy on the same tasks.

Now to create a better understanding of the supreme efficiency and the high R-Value of spray foam, simply note that spray foam has an estimated R-Value that varies from R-3.5 per inch of thickness (Open cell) and R-6.5 per inch of thickness (Closed Cell). Compare that with cellulose (R-3.1 to R-3.7) and fiberglass (R-2.2 to R-4.2).

Increase your Property Value by 3% up to 6%

Not only does your spray foam insulation system shrinks your energy bills but it also significantly increases your property value by 3% up to 6%. Consumer reports suggest that new homebuyers seek different home upgrades or energy-efficient gadgets when looking to buy a new home. An insulation system is preferred as much as HVAC systems, solar panels, or bathroom & kitchen remodels.

Pests and Rodents Number 1 Enemy

Same as with fiberglass and cellulose, spray foam is treated with special substances like boric acid which keeps the tiny intruders away from your house perimeter. Boric acid creates an efficient insect repellent barrier that keeps pests, rodents, and other unwelcome guests far from your building walls. The substance is safe to be used indoors as it does not make contact with the building residents.

Prevent Mold From Growing on Your Building Walls

If you are looking for a dry and comfortable living, storage, or working space, you should consider spray foam insulation as your first defense in mold preservation. Foam insulation simply prevents the conditions that pave the way to mold growing on your home walls. As you may or may not know already, for mold to grow it requires the temperature indoors to be 40+ degrees and the humidity 50%+. However, with the proper installation, the foam insulation will help in creating a dry and temperature-controlled environment that also avoids water intrusion. 

Sound Absorption Properties

If you live in overcrowded areas you know how serious caustic pollution can be. Traffic noises, noisy neighbors, or a train passing by every once in a while. Well, there is a solution! Thanks to its installation process that applies polyurethane foam directly on the wall, foam insulation eventually seals all gaps and cracks that create an efficient sound barrier. It can reduce noises coming from the outside as well as noises coming from in between rooms or levels in your building. 

A Whopping 40% Decrease in Energy Bills

It is true that the initial spray foam insulation cost is relatively higher when compared with other conventional insulation methods like fiberglass and cellulose insulation. We already mentioned that above. However, the initial investment with eventually pay for itself within the first 3 to 4 years by shrinking your energy bills by up to 40%. And you are not only saving money but also making your living space more comfortable for your family members.

Comparison Table (Spray Foam vs. Fiberglass vs. Cellulose)

Below you will see a comparison table between the two conventional insulation methods (cellulose and fiberglass) and spray foam insulation. We believe that by setting their properties, advantages, and disadvantages side by side you can easily understand the most suitable insulation method for your building needs. 

Why EcoStar?

EcoStar Insulation Company has been serving the Greater Toronto Area and the suburban communities with professional insulation products and materials since 2008. If you have an insulation project, whether it be big or small, peak or slow season - our insulation contractors are here to help you with our energy savings solutions. Contact our team of professionals today and get your free estimate.