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Distinctive Spray Foam Insulation Issues

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Distinctive Spray Foam is popular in new construction and energy efficient homes. This type of insulation creates a custom air seal to control the movement of heat and moisture within the building envelope. It also helps block convective and radiant heat transfer. Unfortunately, there are several issues that can arise when spray foam is not properly installed. These issues include mold development, poor indoor air quality, and excessive energy use.

While the spray foam is curing, it emits a gas that causes blurred vision and difficulty breathing. This odor is caused by the unreacted amine catalysts in the product. It can linger for several days and be very unpleasant to those who are sensitive to chemicals. The odor can be described as smelling like fish, cat urine or new latex paint.

Why Distinctive Spray Foam Insulation Outperforms Traditional Insulation

Because the spray foam is a chemically derived product, it has the potential to react with other chemicals in the home. This can cause off-gassing of the toxic chemicals into the living space. This is especially problematic in shipping container or concrete basements where there is no ventilation to send it out to the outside.

The good news is that there are spray foam insulation companies who specialize in using greener products and follow proper installation techniques. These companies will often use a foam that is blow with a hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blowing agent which eliminates the need for the toxic MDI. If you are considering using this type of insulation in your building, it is always best to work with an experienced contractor who knows what they are doing and follows the manufacturer’s recommended installation instructions.

Distinctive Spray Foam
12439 CR 96, Nunn, CO 80648
(970) 413-4205