Open-cell spray foam insulation is a non-structural, thermal insulation material used in wall cavities, floor assemblies, ceiling assemblies and in attic applications. Open-cell foam insulation is a performance upgrade over conventional insulation that leads to energy efficiency, improved occupant comfort, a cleaner indoor environment and greater noise reduction for building/home owners.
Building envelopes with increased insulation levels are becoming standard practice. Consumers are increasingly involved in the selection of green building products due to rising energy costs and the recent availability of tax credits and energy rebates. Open-cell spray foam technology is a cost-effective solution to improve the energy efficiency of a building.
Icynene open cell spray foam Insulation has several advantages over conventional glass fiber insulation. The spray foam expands 100 times, filling building cavities, sealing cracks and crevices, and creating an air barrier. It has a slightly higher R-value than glass fiber, and has the added advantage of not being subject to loss of R-value due to aging, windy conditions, settling, sagging, convection or air infiltration. Icynene open cell spray foam is a 100% water-blown product that contains no harmful CFC’s or formaldehyde. It has a lowest global warming potential of 1. It’s a great choice for a healthy indoor living environment.
What is Open Cell spray foam?
We use Icynene’s LD-C-70. Icynene spray foam insulation is an insulation and air barrier material that seals walls, floors and ceiling cavities against air movement, including spaces around electrical outlets and light fixtures and where walls meet windows and doors. Spray foam insulation can provide an effective air barrier insulation to minimize air infiltration through walls and ceilings, preventing drafts, cold spots and energy loss. The performance of spray foam insulation means that humid indoor/outdoor air is restricted from entering the walls & ceilings and condensing, thereby minimizing the possibility of moisture entrapment & build-up within the wall & ceiling cavities. This is conducive to preventing building envelope failure due to moisture damage.
What is the R-Value?
The aged R-Value is 4.08/inch
How much does it cost?
Contact us for a quote
Is it environmentally friendly?
Icynene’s LD-C-70 (open cell spray foam) product does not contain environmentally harmful blowing agents like HFCs, HCFCs or HFAs.
What are the advantages of using open cell spray foam?
Typically, buildings expand and contract due to temperature differentials, moisture content, wind load and seismic etc. Closed-cell insulation cannot accommodate the movement of the building. Open-cell spray foam:
Provides air sealing benefits in many applications at lower cost
Vapor permeability supports bi-directional drying of assemblies – critical in warm climate zones/seasons
Flexibility allows it to expand and contract with any movement of the building structure ensuring long term air sealing
Water-blown product maintains a lower GWP (GWP 1) than most closed-cell products
Can I make my house too airtight?
The answer is, you have to build tight and ventilate right. With the proper use of exhaust fans and heat/energy recovery ventilators, a building envelope can be made tight while clean, healthy air is circulated through the structure. Air leakage needs to be controlled in houses by making wall and attic assemblies as tight as possible. This not only prevents drafts but reduces the amount of airborne noise and dust from entering the building while ensuring that insulated cavities remain moisture-free.
Is there an odor? If so, should I be concerned?
There are no blowing agents such as CFC’s (chlorofluorocarbons) or HCFC’s (Hydrochlorofluorocarbons). Spray foam insulation is produced by mixing 2 components at a high temperature, which causes the foam to atomize during installation. This process creates an odor and requires venting. As soon as the foam “cures” (or sets), which occurs within seconds, it no longer produces the odor. It usually takes about 24 hours for the odor to completely dissipate.
What makes spray foam better than traditional types of insulation such as fiberglass?
Spray foam insulates and air-seals in one step to control unwanted random air leakage – which traditional cellulose and fiberglass insulation can’t do without the use of extra sealing materials. Traditional insulations can also leave gaps and seams around electrical boxes or light fixtures (compromising performance), but spray foam fits perfectly around all detailing for a complete air-seal. The result is a healthier and more efficient home.
When does spray foam usually get installed?
Spray foam usually gets installed just before drywall installation. Everything including the framing, windows, doors and electrical, plumbing inspections should be completed prior to the installation of spray foam. Typically, following the application of spray foam, the installation of 0.5-inch dry wall will provide the thermal barrier cover when required by the codes. It is best to always refer to your local code requirements.
Does Icynene® break down, sag or shrink?
No, Icynene foam insulation is stable. It does not shrink or sag. The reaction that creates Icynene foam insulation is irreversible and it cannot break down into its constituent parts.
Can I be in the house when spray foam is being applied?
Due to the chemical process involved in the application, only certified installers, wearing appropriate equipment are permitted during application, and for 24 hours after application.