The Value and Types of Foam

To be effective, an insulation system must address six factors "(understanding insulation)":

Conduction
Convection
Radiation
Air infiltration
Air Intrusion
Moisture

Spray foam is applied to open cavities as a liquid and rapidly expands to completely seal any opening in the building envelope. Our Air Krete retrofit foam is pumped into existing walls and flows to fill the cavities before setting up. Both systems effectively address all of the factors listed. In contrast to other insulation materials such a fiberglass and cellulose, which do not stop airflow, foam delivers.

Spray foam seals!

The advantages of foam insulation can be easily summarized:

Foam seals the building and stops drafts and noise.
Foam insulates the building with superior energy performance.
Foam keeps out pollutants, which improves indoor air quality.
Foam contains no loose fibers that can become airborne and cause an allergic reaction

In short, a home insulated with foam is more energy efficient, quieter and healthier.

At Pure Seal, we choose our foam based on the application:

Open cell spray foam (R = 3.5 per inch, installed weight 0.5 pound per cubic foot). Expands at a dramatic rate, typically 100:1, and is highly vapor permeable. Because of its relatively low R-value per inch, it requires deep cavities. Water is used as the propelling agent.

Semi-closed cell spray foam (R = 4.8 per inch, installed weight 1 pound per cubic foot). Our foam of choice for most residential wood construction. It has great R-value and excellent vapor control properties. It is water blown.

Closed cell spray foam (R = 6.6 per inch, installed weight 1.7 to 2.0 pounds per cubic foot). Provides a vapor barrier and tolerates moisture extremely well. Used below grade and on masonry walls. Some are water blown but most use non-ozone depleting chemical propelling agents.

Air Krete pumpable foam (R = 4 per inch, installed weight 2 pounds per cubic foot). Ideal for insulation of existing wall cavities where spray foam can not be used. Air Krete is a light weight foam in which magnesium oxide is used to maintain the cellular structure. It contains no petrochemical components, is non-allergenic and will not burn. It can be used in wood, block and masonry walls with excellent results.