DIY encapsulating Wooden Subflooring Improve Value

Sub-flooring that has rotted due to moisture problems.
Sub-flooring that has rotted due to moisture problems.
Rotten floorboards damaged by moisture.
Rotten floorboards damaged by moisture.

Why your floors need protection now, and what you can do about it.

Do you shudder because of your once-beautiful hardwoods cupping and buckling?  Are your subfloors being overtaken by mold and decay, and termites making a buffet of your home? Peter Reichard’s 2009 article in New Orleans Homes and Lifestyles got it right: Even here in Southern Louisiana, you can protect yourself from the ravages of moisture and insect infestation. And perhaps one of the best ways to “insulate yourself” against such problems is to encapsulate your wooden floor with closed-cell spray foam.  Can this be a DIY encapsulating wooden subflooring?  Here are some facts to help you with your process. 

Why closed closed-cell spray foam is likely your best choice.

Even though it’s more expensive than other insulation options, it’s also much denser and far less permeable than other options. Closed-cell spray foam creates an air-tight seal that decreases air loss, moisture buildup, and termite damage, making it ideal for sealing crawl spaces and encapsulating floors.

What to consider if you decide to save a little money and make application a DIY.

Sub-flooring protected from moisture and rot by closed cell insulation.
Sub-flooring protected from moisture and rot by closed cell insulation.
Crawl space encapsulated by closed cell spray foam.
Crawl space encapsulated by closed cell spray foam.

Installation of any type of insulation can mean the difference between protecting your house and creating new problems!

In her article “Insulation Basics,” Mariana Pickering, designer and Houzz contributor, cites some common pitfalls with spray foam application. Consider these first if you’re thinking about tackling the job yourself:

  • If the chemicals are not mixed correctly, then the foam starts to pull away from the
    neighboring surface.
  • If the installer rushes through the installation, then resulting gaps and holes can reduce the efficiency of the product.
  • If a sufficient thickness either was not specified or was not executed as specified during installation, this can reduce the efficiency of the product.
  • It the local climate was not taken into consideration, and the temperatures or humidity levels were outside of the manufacturer’s specifications, then this can reduce the efficiency of the product.

Why you must be EXTRA careful with application.

Covington home sealed against moisturePickering emphasizes that the Environmental Protection Agency has issued information to make consumers aware of potential health risks associated with the improper application of the spray foam, such as neglecting to wear personal protective equipment, adding, “Please don’t think that you can install this in your shorts and T-shirt on the weekend. Consult a professional or do your research.”

Why you’re in good hands with Sunlight Contractors.

Our spray foam installers are SPFA certified and highly trained. Call now to find out how simple it is to let us protect your home with closed-cell spray foam!

CALL TODAY!

No other energy solutions provider can offer the savings and services that Sunlight Contractor does. From evaluations and estimates to energy conservation and production, we’re your one stop shop for energy efficiency. Call or email Sunlight Contractors today to learn more about energy solutions that will save your business money while conserving energy.

Locations:

Main Office: Sunlight Contractors, LLC 2323 Bainbridge St #110, Kenner, LA 70062 (504) 919-9993

New Orleans location: Sunlight Contractors, LLC 650 Poydras St, Suite 1400, Rm 33, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 302-0058

Proudly Serving the following areas:

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We provide service to the following areas: New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Metairie, Slidell, Kenner, and surrounding areas including Marrero, Harvey, Mandeville, LaPlace, Covington, Gretna, Destrehan, Lacombe, Saint Rose, Madisonville, Norco, and more.

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