PEI’s Guide to
Spray Foam Insulation
David Higginbotham
David is a licensed and certified owner / operator of Red Isle Spray Foam in PEI. His time in the spray foam and construction industry gives him technical knowledge of the full picture for an energy efficient home.
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What is Spray Foam?
Spray Foam is a short form of the main term “Polyurethane Spray Foam”, and it’s also abbreviated in the industry as “PSF Insulation”. Depending on the formulation polyurethane foam can be sprayed or poured. Poured foam is generally seen in industrial applications, and sprayed foam is seen in residential, commercial, and agricultural settings.
Polyurethane Spray Insulation
- A-component is the isocyanate
- B-component is the polyol resin
The two chemicals are filtered several times, removing air and filtering particulates before entering the guns mixing chamber. It only takes a second for the reaction process to take place and expand.
Spray Foam Safety
Spray foam is a very safe product once in its inert state, or fully cured state. Until it reaches this point the spray foam will continue to cure and off-gas. These fumes need to be vented out of the building for at least 24hrs. Our applicators use air filters, and fresh air-supplied units to keep our installers from breathing these fumes. Touching spray foam in its fully cured form is completely fine, if its uncured make sure to wear the proper PPE.
Is Spray Foam Common in Atlantic Canada?
Yes, spray foam is very common in Atlantic Canada, it’s been here since at least 1960. Many homeowners and architects choose to insulate with spray foam because of its significant return on investment. It’s a larger investment upfront but it is quickly regained within a few years. It’s ability to last over 50 years is why it’s so popular as an insulation choice.
Open-Cell vs Closed Cell Spray Foam
Open-Cell Half-Pound Spray Foam
Open-cell spray foam is generally used for light or non-insulation purposes. It’s primary use would be an insulation option for warmer climates, filling voids, cracks, and large cavities. The “open” part comes from the way the foam is connected because it looks like a 3D spider web with air being able to flow in and around the microscopic foam structure.
Closed-Cell 2lbs Spray Foam
Closed-cell spray foam is generally used for sealing and insulation purposes. It’s primary use would be an insulation option for mild to cold climates, and for creating air-moisture seals. The “closed” part comes from the way the foam is connected because under the microscope it looks like a bunch of closed bubbles with air trapped within them.
How to Prepare Your Home For Spray Foam
- Make sure the temperature is room temperature
- Have the surface cleaned where the foam will be applied
- Ensure the substrate is dry and free of moisture, dehumidifiers if needed
- Kill any mold and the surface is cleaned
- Makes sure there is ample space around the wall area for an installer and hose to perform the work, roughly 10ft from the wall is ideal
- If there are overhead objects or restrictions, make sure they affect the area of work
Red Isle Spray Foam Services in PEI
At Red Isle Spray Foam we believe the more we educate our customers the better decisions they’ll make about their insulation project. We’ve seen the benefits and responses from homeowners who choose spray foam, and it’s overwhelming satisfaction. Once the energy bill comes and the difference is seen, that’s when it really hits everyone. It’s going to be savings month after month and year after year.
Choose Red Isle Spray Foam for next home or business insulation project and we’ll happily provide a custom quote and be ready to begin!