Survey Shows Appeal for Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is an insulation option that homeowners and builders are turning to as a means of saving on energy and improving comfort. SPF is a cellular plastic applied to walls, joints, cracks and seams — and extrapolating from a survey performed by the American Chemistry Council, it’s currently being used by nearly 60% of construction companies to meet the needs of homeowners across the country.
The survey helped to identify the percentage of companies using SPF, where the insulation is being used most in a home, as well as how it’s being used.
Out of those surveyed, nearly 60% stated that they currently use and will continue to use SPF for their construction needs, while 16% stated that they have never used, but are considering using SPF in the future. As one moves from starter home or townhouse to a larger home structure, the use of SPF as an air sealant or partial cavity filler rises. It is seen to be used most in apartment and condo walls as a filler for cracks and gaps. SPF increases the comfort in these homes by aiding temperature control and reducing the cost of air conditioning systems.
As the value of a home structure increases, the use of SPF as a sealant increases, and SPF is mostly seen in attic spaces. Nearly 50% of all builders surveyed stated that they used SPF exclusively in attics in larger home structures. This is especially the case for builders operating in southern United States.
As nearly half of a structure’s energy goes to heating and cooling its space, sealants such as SPF are vital when minimizing the building’s environmental impact, decreasing energy needs, and increasing the overall comfort of your home.