Can I Do Spray Foam Insulation Myself?

by Evergreen P. Solar Panels Insulation Specialist

When it comes to insulation of homes, in loft spaces, attics etc, Spray foam can be a great option. It can serve as a fantastic vapor barrier and insulator. It is generally recommended by experts that the work is carried out by professionals, given that spray foam consists of chemicals and must be carefully handled. However, it can be installed by professionals as well as property owners themselves. If you are wondering - can I install spray foam insulation myself – the answer is yes! There are kits available at big box stores as well as hardware stores, which let you carry out the installation on your own.

Cost of Spray Foam Insulation

Many property owners like to find out what it costs to insulate per sq. ft of area with Spray foam insulation. However, the cost of Spray foam insulation is estimated per board foot. The per-board foot cost of this kind of insulation ranges between $0.44 and $1.50. In a 1-square-foot area, using a one-inch thick layer of Spray Foam insulation uk cost is around 0. 25 – 3 USD per board foot.

You can find Spray foam in two varied forms:

· Open-cell spray foam – This is generally 1 – 1.20 USD per square foot.
· Closed-cell spray foam – It costs around 1.25 – 1.50 USD per square foot.
For an area spanning 1,600 square feet, the average cost of professional spray foam installation is around 2,400 USD.

How Do You Carry Out Spray Foam Insulation Yourself?

How do you spray foam insulation yourself? These are the steps that you need to follow:
· Get a foam sealant from a reputed manufacturer. Check the directions given on the foam sealant label with care, prior to its use.
· Use a newspaper or drop cloth for covering the adjoining area. Wear work gloves and safety goggles to ensure your safety.

· You should keep away the sealant from flames or sources of heat, given that Spray foams are generally flammable in nature.

· Before you actually spray the foam onto the surface that needs to be insulated, you need to practice foam dispensation onto a newspaper sheet for a few times, until you are adept at controlling the flow.

· Use water to mist the drafty section, both prior to as well as after the foaming. It can help accelerate the pace of curing.

· In case you over-spray the intended area, use a serrated utility knife to trim the excess of spray foam loft insulation off, after it is properly cured.

· Next, fill up the openings a little less than 50% full. It can allow the expansion of the sealant.

· In case the foam hardens in the straw applicator, you need to trim down the straw until you are able to apply spray foam again.

The common problem areas in properties are Attic Hatch Door, Sill Plate, Plumbing, Electrical Outlets and Window and Door Framing. You have to be careful while applying spray foam around these areas, so as to ensure a proper job.