Spray Foam Insulation Cost: Get An Idea Before Calling A Contractor

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Kenneth Wilson

As a homeowner, there's nothing more stressful than paying high energy bills every month– knowing you're not thoroughly enjoying the comfort of your own home with uncomfortable rooms and drafts now and then. Usually, it's a sign that your home may need spray foam insulation. Perhaps it's the one project you've put on hold for many years– settling with an insufferable room instead that's scorching hot during summertime, and bitterly cold come winter.

Spray Foam Insulation Average Costs

Unfortunately, you can’t purchase most spray foams at your local Home Depot. They need to be bought directly from their manufacturer, so it’s best to be prepared to pay quite the amount for it. The average cost of a professional spray foam insulation for a 1,600 square foot home is about $3,115. According to the most recent data from Home Advisor, most homeowners typically spend somewhere around $1,284 to $3,741 for a more general estimated range.

Jump To

  • Square Footage Pricing Chart
  • Attic / Roof Pricing Chart
  • Crawl Space Pricing Chart
  • Wall Pricing Chart

Other key factors that may hike up Spray Foam insulation cost are the usage of special machinery when it comes to its installation and the particular area of your home to be insulated. Labor costs will also significantly affect the total cost of your home improvement project.

For your reference, here are some price range estimations for spray foam insulation in different areas of the house:

Area

Price Range

Attic

$6,250 - $12,500

Crawlspace

$2,250 - $4,500

Wall

$5,000 - $10,000

Roof

$7,500 - $9,000

Basement

$5,000 - $10,000

  • Attic: On average, the total cost for spray foam insulation in your attic starts from $6,250 to $12,500.
  • Crawl Space: Most homeowners spend $2,250 to $4,500 to insulate their crawl space using spray foam. This estimate is based on the average size and conditions of most crawl spaces.
  • Walls: The total cost of insulating all four exterior walls with spray foam ranges from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on several factors.
  • Roofing: The average price for roof spray foam insulation is between $7,500 to $9,000, with considerations such as the size, pitch, and slope possibly increasing or decreasing this rough estimate. In particular, it may cost you $3 to $4 per square foot when insulating a standard single-story home with 1 inch of spray foam.
  • Basement: If you're planning to insulate your basement with spray foam, expect to shell out anywhere between $5,000 and $10,000. The estimated cost takes into account the basement's ceiling, walls, as well as rim joists.

With the numbers presented above, determining the average cost to insulate a space with spray foam boils down to the size and particular areas in the household to be insulated.

Pro tip: If you want to get your money's worth, get a quote from several professional spray foam insulation companies in your area. Doing so will help you determine how much the service will cost you on average.  However, if you're still undecided to push through with this home improvement project– simply ask for a general cost estimate to gather ideas. It will help you decide, especially if you're in the early stages of the planning process.

table of contents
Spray Foam Insulation Average Costs
What is Spray Foam Insulation?
Costs Per Scale: Open-cell Foam vs. Closed-cell Foam
Factors Affecting Spray Foam Insulation Cost
Major Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation
The Project Process of Installing Spray Foam Insulation
Common Misconceptions about Spray Foam Insulation
Important Considerations for Your Project
Spray Foam Insulation Common Issues to Avoid
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Spray Foam Insulation Contractor
Pricing and Installation Cost Checklist
Spray Foam Insulation: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Final Thoughts

What is Spray Foam Insulation?

Not only does it help save costs in energy reductions, but spray foam insulation also improves a home or a building’s condition. Many homeowners opt to have spray foam insulation to insulate their attics, crawlspace, wall, ceiling, basement, and roof. The process also helps seal any existing gaps and cracks. What’s not to love, right?

Customers can enjoy a comfortable, draft-free environment– without doing further harm to the environment. In fact, the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) found out that spray foam insulation in residential units is energy-efficient and environment-friendly. In updating your home’s insulation, we strongly advise hiring the nearest contractor near you for professional assistance. There may be things you can do on your own, but it’s better to leave it to the professionals who have expert knowledge and necessary safety equipment.

Read on to know everything you need to keep in mind about spray foam insulation for your residence, including the running costs and other factors to consider.

Costs Per Scale: Open-cell Foam vs. Closed-cell Foam

Generally, there are two types of spray foam:

  1. 1
    Open-cell Spray Foam ($1.50 to $2.40 per square foot or $0.50 to $0.81 per board foot)
  2. 2
    Closed-cell Spray Foam ($1.87 to $6 per square foot or $1.2 to $1.8 per board foot)

For your reference, one board foot is equivalent to a one-inch-thick square foot. It is typically covered by one inch of spray foam insulation. Let's take a closer look at the difference between the two and their unique benefits to help you make the best decision for your needs.

Open-Cell Foam

Insulation with an open-cell foam is best used for applications inside the house, such as attics, wall cavities, basement walls, crawlspaces, and roof deck undersides. The open-cell structure of a soft, low-density foam insulation material improves moisture permeability. As a result, homeowners can enjoy better moisture management in their homes. However, it's best to keep in mind that it may not be suitable for all applications or climates.

Other benefits of open-cell foam insulation include:

  • Less likely to develop mold (as it is not a sustainable food source)
  • Great sound-dampening properties, perfect for use in media or theater rooms
  • Lower per-square-foot installation costs

Compared to a closed-cell foam, open-cell spray foam has a lower R-value per inch. It usually translates to lower total costs in general.

Closed-Cell Foam

In contrast with open-cell foam, closed-cell spray foam has a higher R-value per inch and density. If you want to improve the durability of your home's existing structures, this material also boosts the strength of your old walls, ceilings, and roof. Its low water vapor permeability protects your home from moisture, primarily if you're situated in an area with high humidity. Closed-cell foam spray insulation may also be used for both exterior and interior applications.

Even the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other studies highlight the effectiveness of closed-cell spray as a flood-resistant material and prevent harsh wind forces and structural damage.

Here are some other advantages to expect in closed-cell foam insulation:

  • Possible application even at very low temperatures
  • Increased bonding strength
  • Increases the strength of the wall racking, as well as impact resistance
  • Its R-value per inch is higher, making it easy to meet high R-value requirements in small areas.

Refer to the table below for a more detailed comparison of the differences between a closed-cell and an open-cell spray foam material:

Closed Cell Foam

Open Cell Foam

Higher R-value (more than 6.0 per inch)

Lower R-value (around 3.5 per inch)

Air barrier

Air barrier at full wall thickness

High moisture barrier (low moisture permeability)

Low moisture barrier (high moisture permeability)

High strength and rigidity

Low strength and rigidity

Water-resistant

Not advisable to have direct contact with water

Medium-density

Low density

Sound absorbent

May absorb sound

An indoor swimming pool will typically need a different spray foam type (water-resistant closed-cell foam) than a room inside an office building. It's best to do a thorough evaluation of the area to be insulated and consider your maximum budget for the project to make an informed decision on the best type of spray foam to fit your needs.

Factors Affecting Spray Foam Insulation Cost

The price ranges mentioned above only serve as a general estimate, based on the average pricing of local contractors in most states. Keep in mind that several other factors may drive your spray foam insulation cost higher or lower. Let's discuss the main factors that may affect the price of your spray foam insulation project.

Area Size

One significant defining factor on cost is the total size of the area you want to be insulated with spray foam. Naturally, larger spaces will need more insulation material and more labor, causing a price surge. It is a stark contrast when insulating a smaller area with spray foam.

In insulating a large area, such as an attic's roof deck, expect to spend more than you would typically pay your contractor if covering smaller spaces such as the floor. Basically, the bigger the area, the more expensive the total costs will be.

Foam Thickness

Another determining factor in your spray foam insulation project is the foam thickness required in your chosen space. Since the amount of material required for your spray foam insulation varies on a case-to-case basis, this can either increase or decrease the overall installation costs. It can be 6 to 10 inches of open-cell spray foam on the roof or ceiling, while the walls can do with only 3 inches.

In contrast, closed-cell spray foam generally ranges from 4 to 5 inches on the ceiling and 2 to 3 inches on existing walls.

Location of the Property

If your house is situated in areas with constant temperature fluctuations, it's best to install thick insulation. You will benefit more from it than homes in mild climates.

However, since a thicker layer of spray foam insulation will need more material, expect the total costs to be higher.

Work Required

In some cases, your house may need other necessary tasks for your spray foam insulation project. It includes fiberglass removal and membrane fitting, among many others. Before you push through with the project, consult with your local contractor to have a general assessment of your house. They can help you figure out the necessary tasks you need to do for your home innovation project.

Spray Foam Insulation Type

The kind of spray foam you'll use in your insulation project will also affect the project's total costs.

As discussed above, open-cell spray foam will cost $0.50 to $0.81 per board foot on average. In comparison, the price of closed-cell spray foam ranges from $1.2 to $1.8 per board foot.

Use of Professional and Special Machinery for Installation

One crucial thing to note in spray foam insulation is the necessary usage of special machinery for installation. The use of these professional machines can increase the total project cost. Insulation machinery for spray foam includes power generators, blowing wool machines, spray foam rigs, and spray foam equipment.

Manufacturer

Some spray foam insulation manufacturers use water as a spraying agent, whereas others utilize chemicals. Spray foam material also varies in its maximum thickness needed to create an air barrier. It is one factor to note, given how the cost of your insulation project will only go upward with the more material you need.

To help you get started, here are some of the best spray foam insulation manufacturers: There's a lot to take into consideration, so let's take a deeper look at BASF Corporation (BASF Open Cell Foam), Demilec (Demilec Open Cell Foam), Johns Manville (Johns Manville Spray Corbond Foam,) and Icynene-Lapolla (FOAM-LOK 500 Open Cell.)

Contractor

When it comes to insulating your home or building with spray foam, it's always advisable to consult a trained professional spray foam contractor for their assistance. Proper SPF insulation requires knowledgeable planning and training. Ideally, your local SPF contractor has experience and credentials when it comes to installing low-pressure two-component SPF and high-pressure, two-component SPF. You may check the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance Membership Directory to browse for a professional contractor for starters.

They can give you advice on various factors in spray foam insulation, such as:

  • Which type of Spray Foam Insulation fits your needs
  • The exact area to be covered in install Spray Foam Insulation in a home or building
  • What you can expect in each stage of the project process
  • Availing local or federal utility rebates/tax credits
  • Other necessary safety precautions and technical specifications every homeowner needs to know

Time Needed to do the Job

Given how every building and home is unique, the total time it will take to install spray foam insulation may vary. Generally, it depends on the space to insulate and the degree of difficulty of the labor. Your contractor may adjust the price accordingly if some areas to be insulated prove to be more challenging than usual.

For your reference, here's an average estimate on how long the installation process will take on the different areas of the house:

  • Attics - Given that most attics are considerably wide to cover, the SPF insulation may take around 1 to 2 days. If you have any old insulation to be removed, it may even last longer than average. Other factors that may affect the installation time are the attic's pitch and any accessibility challenges.
  • Crawl space - Crawl space SPF insulation may run for 2 to 3 hours. Determining factors include any old insulation to be discarded and accessibility difficulties (hard-to-reach areas because of design type).
  • Walls - Spray foam insulation on walls generally takes up to 2 to 5 hours. The time varies depending on the area size, the number of bump-outs, siding type, and one or two-story homes.
  • Rim Joist - On average, a typical rim joist insulation lasts for 1 to 2 hours. The duration may be longer if you need to remove any fiberglass or deal with accessibility problems that may block the way.

Major Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

So, why do many homeowners continue to choose spray foam for their insulation needs? Besides saving money from lowered energy bills, preventing air leaks, and increasing your household's energy efficiency– here are some other benefits of spray foam insulation for your home.

  • Prevention. Insulating your house or building with spray foam helps improve moisture control indoors. Both open and closed-cell spray foams serve as a vapor barrier for moisture. Sealing any air leaks and existing gaps with spray foam may also prevent indoor humidity and condensation. Not only that, doing so will also prevent the growth of mold. Having proper moisture control will hinder one of the critical biological factors that contribute to having molds.
  • Durability. SPF insulation is popular among many homeowners because of its durability benefits. The process can make your home more durable than it already is. With lesser moisture problems, you can expect a more durable building. You can also use closed-cell spray foam (medium density) to strengthen wall assemblies and improve their racking strength. A properly installed spray foam is less likely to transform its form or shape for many years. Hence, homeowners can consider it as an excellent long-term investment. Although several other insulation materials may create gaps in the insulation after several years, you can reap the benefits of your SPF insulation for years or even decades—after its installation.
  • Flexibility. Another great benefit of spray foam insulation is the material's innate flexibility. Polyurethane foam can expand to quickly fill in space to expand to fill any crevices or gaps regardless of any accessibility challenges. If you're thinking of filling odd-shaped spaces and areas, this flexible insulating material makes for the perfect choice. Thanks to the versatility of spray foam, you will have more flexible options for framing designs. Most rigid insulation projects need generous spacing between studs, but this material can be applied to any opening size.
  • Ability to Air Seal. One of the key differentiators between traditional insulation materials and spray foam insulation is its ability to air seal. Foam insulation provides an air barrier wherever it is applied to help mitigate air leakage from the building. With its excellent air barrier properties, spray foam insulation can effectively help in blocking air leaks compared to other insulation types. A good case in point: other insulation materials such as fiberglass batts or rigid foam boards may gradually slip out of place. It will leave accessible spots for air penetration inside your house. In contrast, SPF material is denser. It provides an impenetrable barrier to air infiltration and related leaks.
  • More Savings. More comfortable living spaces and lesser energy bills per month? Well, spray foam insulation is the way to go. Even the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that most homeowners may save 15 percent (on average) on heating and cooling costs by installing proper insulation in their attics, basement, and crawl spaces. Aside from moisture barriers, spray foam also acts as an insulator and vapor barrier. It eliminates the need for exterior caulking and separate vapor barriers.
  • Soundproof. It's no secret how spray foam insulation can make your home more soundproof. Spray foam with low density boasts great sound absorption and transmission properties. In general, insulation improves the sound control between your rooms, such as human chatter and loud music from the radio. Depending on the density, any outside noise will also be diminished.
  • Energy Efficiency. Choosing spray foam as insulation material results in higher energy efficiency, all without harming the environment. After installation, you can expect a reduction in your heating and cooling systems usage. This lowers the monthly electricity bills as well as carbon emissions. In some cases, you may even opt for smaller ACs and heating systems if you're satisfied with your new well-insulated home. It helps in reducing your house's power usage and carbon footprint, so you're technically lending a hand in the global fight against climate change. Think of it as doing mother earth a favor– as well as saving your money and space.

The Project Process of Installing Spray Foam Insulation

Are you curious to know what goes down in a spray foam insulation project? Let's discuss every step of the process below:

General Preparation

In a guide published by the Spray Foam Coalition of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), here are general preparation steps to consider before the actual application of spray foam insulation.

  • Prepare a briefing/guide for the contractor and the building owner so they can grasp the scope of the spray foam insulation project. Doing so will also inform them of the necessary safety procedures to use in the process.
  • Ensure all essential inspections are completed and approved before starting the work.
  • Make sure all permits are settled before starting your spray foam insulation project.
  • Prepare a supply of caution tapes and warning signs to put up in the area.
  • Relocate any occupants and other non-SPF personnel away from the immediate area for the entire process.
  • Assign a designated area in your house (an extra room) for the workers to put on and discard their PPE safely. It will also reduce the risk of contamination.

Project Process

Now that you've prepared your home or building accordingly for the spray foam insulation process– let’s jump into the project process in detail. Most contractors will give you a last-minute briefing as they start with the insulation process. They will also increase the area's ventilation and make sure no flammable objects are left lying around. For spray foam insulation projects, protective gear and tools are considered must-haves. The material itself (spray foam) will generally be mixed and heated on the site.

At this stage of the project, your contractor will use special equipment to spray the foam onto the intended areas. During foam application, it's crucial to limit area entry only to workers with the necessary safety gear. Once the spray foam application is completed, your contractor will clean up the area back to its original state and dispose of any waste. Generally, it's best to access the room or area at least 24 hours after the project completion.

Note that you can expect the process to be quick and easy when you leave the process to an experienced professional contractor.

Common Misconceptions about Spray Foam Insulation

In this section, let's debunk some of the most common misconceptions regarding spray foam insulation. It's always advisable to get accurate information about spray foam insulation products (Related: Is Spray Foam Insulation Safe?).

  • Potential Health Risks: Many people are under the impression that spray foam is a harmful insulation material. However, these claims aren't valid. Spray foam does not present any significant health risk, nor does it emit dangerous/toxic fumes. With that in mind, it's best to leave your spray foam insulation project to the professionals. They can guarantee you a proper and safe installation. With their experience in the field, they are well-aware of the necessary precautions, and they possess protective gear and tools in their arsenal.
  • One type of spray foam is better than the other: When it comes to insulation, it's not true that open-cell foam is a better option than closed-cell foam (or the other way around).Keep in mind that open-cell spray foam has a low density, which works best for attics and walls. In contrast, closed-cell spray foam is rigid in nature and flood-resistant, making it ideal for tiny spaces. In short, one type of spray foam is not inherently better than the other. Choosing the better spray foam type boils down to your needs: different aspects of your insulation project, such as the specific area, total size, and intended purpose.
  • A Threat to the Environment and Climate: It's a common misconception to associate spray foam with harmful chemicals that may harm the environment and worsen the climate problems we are dealing with today. While the original formulation utilized harmful chemicals with detrimental impacts to the environment– such a thing is left behind in the early days of spray foam production. Fortunately, as technology advanced over the years, most manufacturers found a way to make the material environment-friendly and safe to use. Spray foam also has lower volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than other insulation materials. To add to that, it also deters the growth of any bacteria or mold. You can rely on spray foam insulation to keep your home safe and healthy.
  • Need to Vacate the Home for a Certain Period After Installation: While this aspect varies on the capacity of your local professional contractor, chances are you may not even need to leave the house. In some cases, homeowners may opt to stay inside their homes during the entire spray foam insulation process. It's best to avoid being in the immediate area, though, so as not to get in the way or be in immediate harm without the proper safety equipment. It may be one vital thing to consider when choosing your spray foam insulation company, though.
  • Impossible Installation during Winter: Homeowners may think that spray foam insulation is impossible to install in the winter months, but the reality is that the project can push through in any weather conditions. With the help of experts, you can get started on your spray foam insulation project all year long. However, if weather conditions are severe, you may want to postpone them for a while to ensure the safety of workers.
  • Damage to the Pipes and Wires: If you're worried about SPF insulation possibly damaging your pipes and wires, the good news is– it's unlikely to cause any damage to PVC, CPVC, or any other cables as long as it's properly installed. However, there are several various types of spray foam from different manufacturers. Each of these products has specific installation procedures to be followed. Your local contractor must adhere to these processes to avoid damage and adequately install your spray foam insulation.
  • Closed-Cell Spray Foam is the Best Option for Attic, Floor, or Roof Deck Insulation: With its higher R-Value, many people assume that closed-cell spray foam is ideal for attic insulation. However, both open and closed-cell foams best work as an air barrier. Regardless of your home's temperature zone, open-cell foam is also an excellent choice for your roof deck insulation. Open-cell will show any existing leaks in your roof, while closed-cell can stop leakage and keep the wood frame's moisture. A word of caution: the latter may pose several problems on your end.

Important Considerations for Your Project

Here are some considerations to be mindful of throughout your spray foam insulation project.

New Building Codes

Depending on your state, some localities may change their codes to mandate improved energy efficiency. With that in mind, spray foam insulation can lend a hand in meeting strict building and energy codes.

As discussed above, spray foam is a great air seal. Air barriers serve as a crucial part of many building codes and standards. They also refine the efficiency of several mechanical systems, equating to additional savings on your end with lower HVAC requirements. Some areas also entice landowners with rebates, tax credits, or other incentives to use the green SPF material in their building design.

Odor

For the record, odors are considerably common and natural during the SPF application. Existing odor problems in the area, such as carpets with mold or mildew, old insulation, or wet ducts, may be accentuated by the tighter building envelope from the application of Spray Foam. But once the insulation project is done, any foul odors dissipate after ventilating the spray area. If you're dealing with lingering odors, keep in mind that it may be because of several sources.

Aside from spray foam materials, other possible sources of peculiar odors include:

  • Construction material (cleansers, finishing treatments, paints)
  • Outdoor industrial emissions in the area
  • Construction defects (misrouted vents)

Discoloration

The discoloration of your SPF material may be because of the colorants added by manufacturers to their formulations.

Unless the material is dyed or pigmented (for many reasons), the SPF color appears to have a tan or beige shade. Constant exposure to UV radiation or sunlight may darken the color of your spray foam to a hue of orange or rust coloration.

Hiring a Local Contractor

It's best to consult a professional for your spray foam insulation needs. Professional installers are trained to apply the foam correctly, which may be challenging even for a handy homeowner to DIY. When misapplied, expanding foam may put more pressure on your home structure. If you don't want to risk damaging your house, better leave it to the pros.

Some harmful fumes (which are dangerous to be breathed in) may also occur during the installation. With that in mind, professionals have the necessary PPE for the work. They can also point out problems you aren't even aware of and the measures to solve or prevent them from happening again.

Post-Application Visual Inspection

The Spray Foam Coalition of the American Chemistry Council (ACC) advises homeowners to conduct a visual inspection shortly after the spray foam insulation project is completed. Doing so will help oversee the following aspects:

  • Specific assemblies are insulated to proper levels with the correct specifications in mind
  • The Spray Foam Insulation provides a consistent air barrier
  • The Spray Foam Insulation is wholly attached to the substrates, well bonded with cavity frames.
  • Satisfactory surface appearance
  • Even and uniform SPF coloring
  • No visible blisters, cracks, or delamination
  • Any necessary coatings/coverings, ignition barriers, or thermal barriers (required by codes) are in place

Spray Foam Insulation Common Issues to Avoid

Homeowners with various concerns about what could go wrong in a spray foam insulation project need to be aware of these common pitfalls:

  • Expectations vs. Reality: When the result doesn't meet your initial expectations, it usually boils down to a big miscommunication between your local contractors. Hence, ensure that you are on the same page with your spray foam insulation company regarding your goals and expected results. If your expectations do not match, it's best to expect inevitable issues.
  • Hiring the Wrong Contractor: Ensure to hire reliable, licensed contractors with ample experience in spray foam insulation. It's a bonus if they have been previously trained for proper installation by the manufacturer themselves. Have high hopes for your contractor. They need to be experts in the industry, so if they are vague with their answers to your relevant questions– better consider them as red flags.
  • Hasty Installation: Some installers may rush the installation process and install your spray foam product too quickly. As a result, you may have to deal with a poorly installed spray foam insulation. Improper application by an untrained or inexperienced contractor may bring you several headaches in the future, including an off-ratio material spraying, lingering foul odors, and insufficient adhesion. To avoid this, hire licensed contractors with plenty of case studies to prove their expertise and craft.
  • Improper Thickness: If the spray foam insulation is not properly installed at its right thickness, it may not serve as an effective air seal than you would expect it to be. Your air conditioning unit and furnace will work around the clock with air movement freely inside the home. In return, your monthly power bills may increase. Ensure that your contractor knows the certain thickness needed for your spray foam installation before the project gains traction.
  • Improperly Mixed Chemicals: When your contractor improperly mixes your spray foam chemicals, the insulation material may not adhere well to the cavity. Research the past projects of your contractor before giving your project the green light. It's best to ensure they have the proper experience and equipment for all the work involved.

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Spray Foam Insulation Contractor

Meticulous repairs and home improvement projects are best handled by a professional with the right expertise and skills. Spray foam insulation is one project that professionals must ideally spearhead.

Let's discuss the advantages and drawbacks when it comes to spray foam insulation.

Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Spray Foam Insulation

  • A local contractor can assist you in insulating the different spaces inside your home, such as existing walls, without the need to get rid of drywall. You can count on professionals to handle various projects. If you're planning to do a DIY project, keep in mind that it will be challenging to take it all on your own.
  • The amount of time needed for your spray foam insulation project will also be significantly decreased if you leave it to the professionals. They have the experience and expertise in dealing with such projects.
  • If you encounter any problems after the spray foam insulation installation, you can count on the insurance covered by several professional contractors. They will take care of anything that will happen to your project.
  • A professional contractor can effectively remove any existing insulation in your house, such as in the attic, basement, or crawl space, before proceeding with your new insulation project.
  • Their professional experience is well-covered with aspects such as applicable rebates, current building codes, and energy efficiency codes. You can also rely on them to evaluate your house to look for any structural issues, mold, mildew, and animal infestation signs.

Drawbacks of Hiring a Professional for Spray Foam Insulation

  • Expect the costs to be higher than a DIY project. If you're tight on budget, you may need to save up a little extra for labor fees and other contractor service charges.
  • Hiring a local contractor will need some research, time, and effort on your end. Make sure the company you'll work with is trustworthy and experienced in the industry. Else, you may bump into nasty problems along the way.
  • If a professional contractor's schedule is fully booked, you may need to wait a few weeks in some cases to get started on your spray foam insulation project finally. But as the adage goes, patience is a virtue.

Pricing and Installation Cost Checklist

Now that you've decided to push through with your spray foam insulation project, here's a helpful checklist to help you get more bang for your buck:

  • It's practical to consider at least 3 to 5 spray foam insulation estimates from different contractors before choosing a company. Take advantage of how most estimates are free of charge. It will help you determine the average price point and the best pricing for your project.
  • Prices may vary from one company to another since each has a different operation and overhead costs. If your project can afford a slight postponement, it's best to get prices during the late fall or early winter. Most contractors may offer a down season with plenty of discounts.
  • If you have the time, visit the spray foam supply store directly. You may even land a better price with some suppliers, as long as your negotiation skills are on point!

Spray Foam Insulation: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does spray foam insulation work?

Simply put, spray foam insulation works as a barrier and insulator that helps conserve your energy at home and prevents heat loss by sealing all the gaps and cracks, allowing no air and water to leak. It is a chemical mixture that, when applied– expands and covers a large amount of area, preventing leaking from coming in and out. Aside from its primary use, it also comes with other benefits such as noise reduction, mold prevention, and increased durability of your walls.

Where is spray foam insulation installed?

Spray foam insulation may come in pricey, so you should know which specific areas to install if you want to avoid the extra potential cost. Make your home more comfortable while saving energy at the same time. Spray foam insulation is better installed on areas prone to air leaks, such as crawl spaces, walls, and basement rim joists.

Is spray foam insulation safe to have inside the home?

Yes, spray foam is a safe insulating method for your home. The process follows specific guidelines to ensure that the insulation is installed safely. Wearing personal protective equipment and fans for proper ventilation is required to prevent the inhalation of small particles. Ignition barrier paints are installed over the foam to avoid fire hazards. Once installed, some contractors may not allow you to stay inside the house for 12 to 24 hours, as the foam sets in place.

How long does it take for a typical spray foam insulation job?

With the help of a professional contractor, a large spray foam insulation project may take half a day, while a small area can take between 2 to 3 hours. Factors like preparation work, total space, and clean-up time can affect the length of installation time. In some cases, the house may not be ready for use for at least 24 hours after the installation.

Does spray foam insulation affect energy cost?

When air leaks out of your house, it causes your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to work around the clock and consume more energy. The air sealing properties of spray foam insulation will help you save energy by covering all the gaps where the air may escape.  You can expect a decrease in your monthly electricity bills– all thanks to spray foam insulation.

Will spray foam insulation keep pests out of the home?

Thanks to the spray foam insulation, insects and other pests will never have an easy way inside your home again. Pests can't break through or slip in, keeping your house clean and comfortable with its durability.

Does Spray Foam Insulation Improve My Home’s Performance?

This type of insulation will, without a doubt, boost your home’s performance in a variety of aspects. Say goodbye to your high energy consumption because the spray foam insulation will help contain your heat or cooling system within your space. It will reduce the energy costs per month. Beyond energy efficiency, it also helps your home become more presentable and cleaner by preventing pests from going in and molds from growing. Additional features (such as soundproofing) can also minimize any unpleasant noise.

Final Thoughts

Over the last 30 years, spray foam has been a popular insulation material for many homeowners and professional contractors. SPF insulation is highly durable, energy-efficient, and makes your home more comfortable (warm in the cold winter and cool in the hot summer).

Every homeowner deserves a beautiful, cozy living space. If you're still settling for uncomfortable homes and paying high electricity bills for no good reason– it might be the right time to consider an SPF insulation. Remember, a comfortable home makes a good home! Consider it a good investment for your beloved house in the long run.

Kenneth Wilson
September 23, 2021
Cost Guides, Interior
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Kenneth Wilson

Retired contractor. Currently residing in Southwest Florida. Now in semi-retirement, I write and manage this blog focused on helping home owners make savvy decisions when it comes to finding contractors and getting their projects done. I also operate remodeling design service for homeowners.

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