Foam vs. Traditional Specifications

There is a reason why polyurethane foam is used in most every refrigerator, hot water heater, refreshment cooler, insulated flask, and hot tub. You don’t see fiberglass batts wrapped around the space shuttle either. That’s because polyurethane foam is far more superior in its functional R-value, structural strength, air/moisture sealing, and form fitting characteristics. 

Consumers and architects are becoming more educated and more demanding relative the building materials used in the construction of their properties. They are seeking the best, highest performing, and sustainable materials for their properties, their families and their occupants, not to mention their wallets. And even though spray foam is more expensive, it can absolutely help to save money and create much greater value and performance over time.

That’s because spray foam is one of the best insulating materials known to man. When SPF is specified in construction, it often results in payback and savings on energy costs. SPF can often eliminate the need for other materials, labor intensive tasks, and possesses characteristics that competing materials just don’t have.

For example, residential insulation such as fiberglass has no where near the benefits of spray foam insulation. And while SPF may cost more up front, it pays for itself through energy savings, air quality improvements, air/moisture/mold management, noise reduction, and overall strength improvements. If you really look at these benefits, SPF is actually less expensive and far more valuable over time, and isn’t that what sustainable design and “green” building is all about?  

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