Applications of SPF Insulation

One of the benefits of SPF insulation is that the same material is suitable for all building types including commercial, industrial, institutional, residential, and even agricultural buildings. The places within the buildings where it can be installed make it equally versatile. It has been shown to perform effectively in wall assemblies, roofing systems, and below grade, including under concrete slabs. And from a construction ease standpoint, it has the ability to provide multiple levels of control in one layer of only one installed product. Hence, low-density SPF will insulate, air seal, and provide sound control all in one properly installed application. Medium-density SPF will provide greater thermal control per inch of thickness, a complete air seal, a full vapor barrier, and in certain cases will contribute to the rigidity and durability of the assembly.

To gain a greater insight on this versatility, common applications of SPF insulation are discussed further.

Interior Applications

Wood and metal stud framing cavities are normally insulated from inside the building after the building is closed in and mechanical/electrical work is roughed-in. This is the ideal time to install SPF insulation as well. The exterior wall sheathing or roof deck acts as the outermost surface for the SPF to be sprayed against with the studs commonly defining the depth of the sprayed material. When sprayed between structural framing or trusses, the SPF can be sprayed to the depth required and any additional structure depth can simply remain outside of the insulation.

Spray foam insulation can completely fill the available space between metal framing and trusses in buildings. Photo courtesy of Demilec (USA) LLC

 

One of the differences between SPF insulation and other types of insulation (batt, board, etc.) is the ability of the SPF to completely fill and seal around all openings and penetrations in the cavity. This assures that the cavity can perform to its full design potential receiving the fully intended thermal value as well as completely sealing against unwanted air infiltration. Further, traditional batt insulation is often compromised by the presence of mechanical and electrical lines, boxes, etc. Insulation is often compressed, cut away, or pushed aside in those cases. Spraying the SPF after the mechanical/electrical rough-in is complete means that the insulation covers fully and appropriately around them. This further helps to assure that the full performance of the wall as designed is actually being constructed.