Ah, the do-it-yourself appeal. Full creative and physical control of a project from start to finish. It certainly has a way of drawing one in regardless of the complexity of the project. From the simple baseboard installation to the hot water heater replacement, many of us make it a regular habit to take our homes into our own two hands.
But, when it comes to spray foam insulation, should we really get behind the practice of DIY? What are some of the challenges that come with this skilled trade work? What can we do to prepare our homes for spray foam application? Join High Performance Spray Systems today as we get to the bottom of these questions.
Should You Do DIY Spray Foam Insulation?
There is no beating around the bush here; you should not do spray foam insulation yourself. Multiple reasons go behind this advice, and most of them surround the risk that you invite upon yourself. These include:
Health & Safety Risks
Spray foam insulation is the mixture of two chemicals that, when combined, form a lightweight, airtight structure that keeps warm air in and cold air out. These chemicals are very hazardous to our lungs and skin, as well as to the environment and immediate surroundings. The professionals that use spray foam insulation are trained to handle it safely and dispose of it properly, reducing the health and safety risks to themselves and their customers.
Quality Risks
You may also compromise the effectiveness of your spray foam insulation. Most of these mixtures require precise humidity and temperature conditions to cure properly. If you cannot create these conditions or do not monitor them appropriately, your insulation may cure improperly. This could lead to soft or brittle areas in your final product.
Additionally, having pockets of dead air or crevices without insulation may lead to energy loss which could impact your utility bill. On the other hand, overapplication of the spray foam may lead to problems later in your construction when drywall does not fit or the insulation requires cutting to make room.
Experience Risks
A lack of experience can also introduce increased risk to yourself and others. Inexperience with the equipment or material may lead to improper mixing, product waste and other problems with the project.
Can You Help With Spray Foam Insulation?
While it may not be a good idea to do your own spray foam insulation, there are still several things you can do to make the insulator’s life easier. For instance, clearing out the space where the insulation will be applied from obstructions, tools and other equipment. This helps the job go faster and reduces the risk that your belongings will get overspray from the insulation process.
As well, you can ensure that you have a clear plan of action for the spray foam insulation. This means that you know where the insulation will be applied and have made provisions for that time. Unlike some other trades, spray foam applicators can not work in the same area as others due to the toxic and hazardous nature of their craft.
