Bad insulation is one of the most common issues homeowners face. While it might not seem like a big deal to some, bad insulation leads to structural issues, entails higher utility bills, and renders most HVAC units ineffective. This is why there are different insulation options customers can choose from. Spray foam insulation, in particular, is favored by many homeowners thanks to its effectiveness. However, it remains one of the most expensive insulation options on the market. So, is spray foam insulation worth the money? Read on to get the answer.
Pros
Let’s start with the positives of spray foam insulation. When homeowners hear about the cost of spray foam insulation, they usually think it is a bit high, especially when compared to other options like fiberglass. Nonetheless, you need to understand that the benefits of spray foam greatly offset its costs. Here are some of the benefits of going for spray foam insulation.
It Works Great
Because you need to invest in the best insulation option for your house, there is no better way of doing so than opting for spray foam. What sets spray foam apart from other options is that it provides an unmatched airtight level of insulation. Since spray foam expands after it sets, it fills any holes or gaps. It can also expand to reach the tightest corners and seal them effectively. Thus, spray foam is considered the most effective insulation option on the market.
It Helps You Save Money
Given it is high installation costs, spray foam insulation might seem the least likely option to save you a pretty penny. However, it can help you cut costs on energy consumption down the road. Since the insulation it provides is airtight, you will find that you are getting lower utility bills. Great insulation means that your house remains cool in summer and warm in winter, eliminating the excessive use of HVAC units and fans. Also, it does not hurt that lowering your energy consumption leads to less pollution—just something to mull over.
It Maintains Your Home’s Structural Integrity
More often than not, poor insulation entails bacteria and water leakages that encourage the growth of mold and mildew. Indubitably, mold, and mildew are every homeowner’s greatest enemy, as they negatively impact the structural integrity of any building. Additionally, they attract moths and other pests that can infest your home—a frightening idea indeed! Nevertheless, by eliminating water leakages and bacteria, you can get rid of mold. When it comes to preventing mold and mildew from growing, you will probably not find a more effective solution than spray foam insulation due to its water-resistant feature.
Cons
It’s Expensive
Unfortunately, we cannot ignore the high costs of installing spray foam insulation. When compared to other insulation solutions, the cost of spray foam is downright astronomical. Generally, it can amount up to $6 for every square foot. On the other hand, a square foot of fiberglass costs only $0.40. Despite its amazing benefits, spray foam insulation remains unaffordable for many homeowners.
It Doesn’t Last Forever
Given the money you will be willing to put up to install spray foam insulation, you should at least expect it to be a one-time purchase. Sadly, this is not how spray foam works. If you live in an area that experiences wacky weather, then the layer of spray foam itself might shrink, compromising its effectiveness. To solve this problem, you will need either to give your house a new coat of spray foam or just completely remove the old layer and start anew. Both options do not sound enticing, especially when calculating the overall cost of the installation.
It Can Be Installed Only by a Professional
If you are someone who likes to get creative and DIY their house renovation projects, then you are in for a big disappointment. Spray foam insulation cannot be installed by a non-expert due to the safety hazards the process involves. Professional installers usually wear protective gear to protect themselves from the chemicals in the spray foam. Furthermore, the process itself needs some experience to go without a hitch, as you might overlook some gaps and end up with a botchy installation.
After considering the pros and cons of spray foam insulation, you need to come to your conclusion on whether it is the best option for you. With that being said, we recommend that you at least give it a try since its pros outweigh its cons. By installing spray foam insulation, you can rest assured that your home is highly protected and also enjoy giving your HVAC a break. If you are willing to cover the costs of both the installation and the spray foam itself, there is a lot to gain from opting for this option!
