Indoor air quality (IAQ) is a measure of how clean and healthy the air inside a building is. It can affect the comfort, well-being, and productivity of the occupants, as well as the durability and efficiency of the building itself.
Poor IAQ can cause or worsen various health problems, such as allergies, asthma, respiratory infections, headaches, fatigue, and even cancer.
One of the factors that influence IAQ is the type and quality of insulation used in the building. Insulation is not only important for maintaining a comfortable temperature but also for preventing air leakage, moisture intrusion, and pollutant infiltration.
Among the different types of insulation available, spray foam insulation is one of the best options for enhancing IAQ.
In this blog post, we will explain why you should contact a spray foam insulation contractor who can improve the indoor air quality of your home or building by reducing pollutants, allergens, and moisture problems.
What Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a type of insulation that is applied as a liquid and expands to fill the gaps and cracks in the walls, ceilings, floors, and other areas of a building. It is composed of two components: a polyurethane-type resin and a chemical catalyst that reacts when mixed together.
The reaction creates bubbles of gas that make the foam expand and harden into a solid mass.
There are two main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell:
- Open-cell Spray Foam has a lower density and a softer texture than closed-cell spray foam. It is more flexible and cheaper, although it has a lower R-value (thermal resistance) it is still an excellent air barrier.
- Closed-cell Spray Foam has a higher density and a harder texture than open-cell spray foam. It is more rigid and expensive, but it has a higher R-value and is more resistant to air and moisture.
Also Read: Frequently Asked Questions About Spray Foam Insulation
Reduces Pollutants
One of the benefits of spray foam insulation is that it creates an effective air barrier that prevents outdoor air pollutants from entering the building. Outdoor air pollutants can include dust, smoke, smog, vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, pesticides, radon, and other harmful substances. These pollutants can enter the building through open doors and windows, ventilation systems, or cracks and gaps in the structure.
Spray foam insulation seals these cracks and gaps with its expanding nature and adheres to the surfaces it contacts. It reduces air leakage by up to 90% compared to other types of insulation.
This means that fewer outdoor air pollutants can enter the building and affect your IAQ. It also means that less conditioned air can escape the building, which improves energy efficiency and lowers utility bills.
Minimize Allergens
Another benefit of spray foam insulation is that it reduces the amount of allergens that can accumulate in the building. Allergens are substances that can trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks in sensitive individuals. Some common indoor allergens are dust mites, mould spores, pet dander, pollen, cockroach droppings, and rodent feces.
Spray foam insulation reduces allergens by preventing them from entering or circulating in the building. As mentioned above, spray foam insulation creates an effective air barrier that blocks outdoor allergens from entering the building.
It also prevents indoor allergens from spreading through the ductwork or other pathways by sealing them off. Additionally, spray foam insulation does not provide a food source or a habitat for pests such as rodents or insects that can carry or produce allergens.
Mitigate Moisture Problems
A third benefit of spray foam insulation is that it reduces moisture problems that can affect IAQ. Moisture problems can occur when water vapour condenses on cold surfaces or when liquid water leaks or seeps into the building. Excess moisture can cause various issues, such as wood rot, metal corrosion, paint peeling, structural damage, and mould growth.
Spray foam insulation reduces moisture problems by controlling both air flow and vapour diffusion. As mentioned above, spray foam insulation creates an effective air barrier that prevents air leakage.
This reduces the amount of warm, moist air that can contact cold surfaces and condense into liquid water. It also reduces the amount of cold, dry air that can enter the building and lowers the relative humidity.
Furthermore, closed-cell spray foam insulation acts as a vapour barrier that prevents water vapour from diffusing through the walls and ceilings. This reduces the risk of interstitial condensation (condensation within cavities) that can lead to hidden mould growth.
About Us
At Classic Spray Foam, we have years of experience in the insulation industry and have the proper qualifications and certifications. Contact us today to get a free estimate and find out how we can help you save energy, money, and the environment with spray foam insulation.