Spray-foam insulation is a relatively new idea for European home owners and is quickly becoming the insulation of choice for environmentally and economically discerning households across the U.K.
Floor over unconditioned space
Common problems:
Cold and uncomfortable floors;
Unwanted noises on the main floor originating from the basement;
Buckling hardwood floors due to moisture build-up in the floor system;
Existing insulation falling out due to gravity;
Conditioned air moving through un-insulated ductwork in the garage ceiling assembly or other unconditioned space cannot retain the conditioned temperature (heated air or cooled air). This causes additional discomfort for the occupants;
Where pipework enclosed within the ceiling/floor assembly is only protected by traditional insulation from the cold of the garage, frozen pipes may burst.
The results of using Icynene Spray Foam:
Even floor temperatures for added comfort;
Quieter spaces on the main floor;
Minimised potential for buckling of hardwood floors.
Difficult-to-Insulate Places
Common problems:
Designs or architectural features such as arches, cathedral ceilings, domed or vaulted ceilings or cantilevered floors can pose insulation challenges because conventional insulation doesn?t fit unusual cavities like Icynene spray foam insulation does;
Batting is standard-sized and must be cut, manipulated or compressed to fill unusual spaces (like electrical boxes), reducing their rated U value and sometimes requiring extra finishing materials;
Irregular steel framing components can make insulating a challenge.
The results of using Icynene Spray Foam:
Icynene spray foam insulation sticks to surrounding surfaces ? no need to worry about gaps or spaces in irregular shaped areas;
Unlike some other insulation types Icynene won?t shrink, settle or sag;
Seamless air-seal and rated insulation U value achieved in a single step, even around unusual geometry;
Increased durability of the structure and consistent U-value for the life of the building;
Minimized flow of airborne moisture and threat of condensation, especially against metal;
Flexibility of Icynene spray foam insulation to expand and contract along with the building structure, preventing de-laminating and cracking over time.
Basement or crawl space
Common problems:
Moisture build-up on floor insulation if conventional material (insulation other than Icynene spray foam insulation) is used;
Sweating ductwork;
Energy loss due to leaky ductwork/HVAC inefficiency.
The results of using Icynene Spray Foam:
Conditioned area for ductwork and air handlers, allowing the HVAC equipment to operate more efficiently for increased energy savings;
Air-seal with no gaps or seams, even in difficult-to-insulate areas;
Increased durability of the structure;
Circulation of cleaner air inside the home;
Minimised infiltration of air and accompanying moisture, preventing condensation on the ductwork.
