Why Spray Foam Changes the Way Homes Retain Heat Compared to Other Materials
Naturally, homes lose heat through walls, ceilings, floors, and especially through air leaks in the structure of your building. Traditional building materials do not really offer any kind of thermal resistance, which is why insulation is essential in any commercial or residential property. However, the thickness of insulation is often mistaken for having the most significant impact on heat resistance, when in reality, the actual material is what matters. Spray foam insulation in particular has changed the landscape with its exceptional R-value, durability and overall performance. If you are looking to significantly improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your property, ensure that you work with reputable insulation contractors in Brampton who specialize in spray foam insulation. Contact EcoStar Insulation today to get started.
Here is a breakdown of how spray foam has changed the way homes can retain heat.
How Traditional Insulation Works
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Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass and batt insulation are simply placed into wall cavities manually to help slow down heat transfer. The main issue with these materials is that they do not actually inhibit air movement. Both of these materials are particularly airy, allowing warm air to pass through them relatively easily. As a result, these insulation varieties have a low R-value.
Since air leaks account for a large portion of heat loss in most homes and properties, it is safe to say that traditional/older insulation materials are simply not effective when it comes to maximizing heat retention.
What Makes Spray Foam Different at a Structural Level
Spray foam insulation is spray-applied while it is in a “liquid state” and as it dries, it expands to help fill any gaps, cracks or irregularly shaped spaces in your home’s structure. This creates both an insulative layer and an airtight barrier at a single time. This continuous airtight seal helps prevent both air leaks and heat loss.
Both open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation have a high R-value of up to 8. Open-cell insulation has a more porous structure, whereas closed-cell insulation is extremely dense and rigid, giving it a higher R-value. This means that heat is not able to pass through either material very easily, contributing to less heat loss and gain.
Air Sealing Capabilities of Spray Foam
Spray foam insulation helps create an airtight seal by expanding into small cracks, gaps, and hard-to-reach spaces throughout the building envelope. This significantly reduces drafts and uncontrolled air leakage, which are among the leading causes of heat loss in homes. By keeping conditioned air inside and outdoor air out, spray foam helps maintain more consistent indoor temperatures while reducing the workload on your heating system. This contributes to greater energy efficiency and lower energy bills as a result.
Long-Term Stability Compared to Traditional Insulation
Traditional insulation materials like fibreglass and batt insulation do not last nearly as long as spray foam insulation. Both of these materials are prone to degradation, which compromises the insulating properties of the material. When exposed to water, pests or harsh conditions, these materials can become compacted or damaged, lowering their respective R-value. On average, fibreglass and batt insulation last 15-30 years. Spray foam insulation, on the other hand, can last up to 100 years because it is water-resistant and extremely durable. This contributes to excellent heat retention without the need for any upgrades in an entire lifetime.
Improve Heat Retention with Spray Foam Insulation
If you are looking to improve the heat retention capacity of your home, whether that be for comfort reasons or energy efficiency, working with reputable insulation contractors in Brampton that specialize in spray foam insulation is your best bet. Spray foam insulation is one of the best insulators on the market and provides a unique airtight seal that helps prevent air leaks and unwanted heat loss in the winter months. Reach out to EcoStar Insulation today to get started.
