There are many options for insulation available on the market. Each type has its own pros and cons. When choosing insulation, it is important to take into account the longevity of the material, in addition to the material’s quality.
Some types of insulation can last decades. Some insulation, however, can last for the entire life of your home.
If you are considering spray foam insulation for your home, you are probably asking yourself, how long will spray foam insulation last?
Is this a one-time investment or will it need to be replaced over time? Traditional insulation, like fiberglass and cellulose, breaks down over time. How long will foam insulation last?
How long does spray foam last?
Spray foam insulation can last anywhere from 80 years to 100 years, if it is properly applied. For most people, that could be the life of your home.
They say that nothing lasts forever. “They” have obviously never hired certified Sunlight Contractors to install spray foam insulation in their home or building. Due to the longevity of this type of insulation, the energy savings will more than pay for the spray foam insulation cost.
Sunlight uses spray foam manufactured by Gaco Western, a family-owned business deeply rooted in technology and innovation. Since 1955, the Gaco family has offered best-of-class insulation solutions for homes and businesses. Gaco’s high spray foam R-value product translates to:
- low long-term maintenance costs
- greater structural strength
- improved noise reduction
- resistance to pests, mold and pollutants
- up to 40% more energy savings than other insulation techniques and products
Does Spray Foam Insulation Deteriorate?
Insulation that is not properly maintained loses its R-value when it degrades. This can result in drafts, cold spots and higher energy bills.
For a variety of reasons, including water damage and animal activity, spray foam insulation removal and replacement might be required. Spray foam, except in extreme cases like a leaky roof, infestation, or severe weather, is less susceptible to external factors than other insulation types.
What causes spray foam insulation’s durability to decrease? Spray foam insulation’s lifespan is shortened by mistakes made during installation.
In fact, when Gaco products are installed to Gaco’s high standards — as they always are when Sunlight Contractors is on the job — both the manufacturer and the contractor offer a lifetime guarantee.
What affects the lifespan of spray foam insulation?
Common mistakes when installing spray foam include:
- Inadequate foam thickness
- Not removing all insulation prior to spray foaming
- Not cleaning the substrates or allowing them to dry completely before installing
- Spraying foam insulation on top of the old insulation
- Leaving the space with holes and gaps
- Applying spray foam to a surface that is too warm (above 80 degrees Fahrenheit), or too cold (below 60 degrees Fahrenheit).
This is often the case when homeowners attempt to apply spray foam insulation themselves. Many problems start with poor quality materials being purchased and the improper use of equipment. These problems are further complicated by mistakes in the installation process.
An experienced insulation contractor will be able to identify the best tools and bring the correct equipment. They also know how to prepare the space for installation. The areas where spray foam is required to achieve maximum efficiency and how much insulation they should be using are also known by insulation professionals.
What is the average life expectancy of spray foam insulation compared to other materials?
Spray foam is not the only option for home insulation. There are many kinds of home insulation that homeowners can choose from, with each having its own benefits.
Spray foam insulation can be durable and long-lasting, which are two areas that are almost untouchable when compared to other options.
- Fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass batts may begin to disintegrate within 15 to 20 years. However, loose-fill fiberglass can last longer (possibly 80 to 100 years), depending on the conditions.
- Cellulose insulation: cellulose insulation can last between 20 and 30 years. However, insulation made from recycled papers will have a shorter lifespan.
- mineral wool insulation: mineral wool is the closest to spray foam insulation’s long-term viability. Rock wool insulation will last as long as your house is standing (approximately 80 to 100 years). Installing mineral wool insulation can be a tedious process. Many homeowners also find it prohibitively expensive.
Insulation that is exposed to extreme conditions may have to be replaced. Spray foam is more resistant to common conditions that can cause insulation to lose its effectiveness and become less effective.
How to make spray foam insulation last longer
Spray foam insulation is very easy to maintain under ideal conditions. Spray foam insulation is essentially a “set it, forget it” solution.
It is crucial to know the condition of spray foam insulation. If you have installed spray foam insulation in your attic you must ensure that it is in good repair and that there are no leaks.
The same attention should be given to low-lying areas. Spray foam insulation works well in finished basements. However, you must be vigilant for cracks, leaks and other problems. It is important to keep crawl spaces dry and ventilated in order to ensure the effectiveness of spray foam insulation.
It is essential to be aware and alert to temperature changes, drafts, as well as other problems in your home. These are all common sense aspects of homeownership and not specific steps to install spray foam insulation. These problems may indicate a problem with your insulation.
Sunlight’s commitment to professional excellence is a commitment to your home’s health and safety
Sunlight Contractors has earned Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) Master Installer Spray Foam Insulation certification, the highest certification available for spray foam installers. This certification indicates the ultimate in commitment, credibility, and expertise in spray foam installation.
The team at Sunlight has the knowledge, skill, and attention to detail to ensure that your money is well-spent and that your health and safety are paramount for the life of your home.