Is it better to spray foam or not?

Author: Dr. Brycen Hegmann  |  Last update: Friday, August 1, 2025

Spray foam insulation and batt insulation are both effective at improving the energy efficiency of your home and reducing noise. As far as insulation types go, however, spray foam insulation is usually the best choice because it is more effective in extreme weather conditions and traps more heat than batt insulation.

Is there a downside to spray foam insulation?

Spray foam insulation is a good insulator in terms of keeping a room warm or cool. But its many downsides outweigh the benefits. These include, making it more difficult getting a mortgage, potential health issues, environmental damage, ventilation issues and a lower home valuation.

When should you not use spray foam?

Directly against electrical wiring or fixtures: Spray foam insulation should not be applied directly against electrical wiring, fixtures, or recessed lighting unless they are rated for contact with insulation. Contact with insulation can cause overheating and pose a fire hazard.

Why is spray foam a red flag for lenders?

Spray foam insulation is one of those many factors that can throw up a red flag to a mortgage lender. For a lender, your insulation matters because it affects crucial metrics such as the home's saleable value and energy efficiency rating.

Is spray foam worth the extra money?

Spray foam insulation does cost more than traditional options, but over time it pays you back in energy savings, and you can't really put a price on the comfort of your family.

Everything You Need to Know About Spray Foam

What is the lifespan of spray foam?

Spray foam insulation lasts for 80 years to 100 years, but closed-cell spray foam will last a little longer than open-cell spray foam. For many homeowners, this lifespan will extend beyond the entire time they own their house. Closed-cell spray foam lasts longer than open-cell spray foam due to its rigid structure.

Why is it hard to sell a house with spray foam insulation?

Some Buyers May Be Uncertain Of Spray Foam Insulation.

If they don't know the contractor who installed it, they may worry that the foam was installed by people who didn't know what they were doing. Other buyers have heard negative stories about spray foam insulation.

Why do insurance companies not like spray foam insulation?

The chemical aspect of spray foam makes it very hard for standard insurance companies to provide coverage. Most standard lines insurance carriers want to write the risks with no liability not spray foam contractors that manufacture plastic every day in the field.

What not to tell a lender?

5 Things You Should Never Say When Getting a Mortgage
  • 'I need to get an extra insurance quote due to … ...
  • 'I can't believe how much work the house needs before we move in' ...
  • 'Please don't tell my spouse what's on my credit report' ...
  • 'I'm still working out the details on my down payment'

Where not to use expanding foam?

While it is hugely useful, it should not be used to solve all problems. One such example is electrical boxes. Expanding foam shouldn't be used in these locations as it could cause jams that would be expensive to repair. So avoid using it around sockets or light fixtures, or any electrical components in the property.

Can mold grow behind spray foam insulation?

Mold and mildew can begin growing behind the insulation which can go unnoticed until it's already become a huge problem. This often happens when the spray foam isn't installed correctly and space is left between the insulation and the wall, which allows moisture in and gives mold the perfect place to grow, unfettered.

Why shouldn't you spray foam your roof?

Improper installation of spray foam, particularly closed-cell types, can lead to roof damage from expansion and contraction, increased condensation, and difficulties with repairs or mortgages.

Why we don t use spray foam?

Homeowners who are exposed to isocyanates and other spray foam chemicals in vapors, aerosols, and dust during or after the installation process "run the risk of developing asthma, sensitization, lung damage, other respiratory and breathing problems, and skin and eye irritation.

What are the disadvantages of foam?

One of the main drawbacks of polyurethane foam is the potential for chemical emissions. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during manufacturing and off-gassing can affect indoor air quality. Polyurethane foam is highly flammable.

Does spray foam decrease home value?

Spray foam insulation provides an excellent air seal, reducing the workload on the HVAC system by minimizing air leaks. This not only extends the lifespan of the HVAC system but also improves comfort and energy efficiency, qualities that can boost a home's marketability and resale value.

What is better than spray foam insulation?

While both types of insulation are great choices for home insulation, fiberglass insulation is generally considered to be safer than spray foam insulation. This is because spray foam contains a special type of chemical called isocyanate, which is toxic when inhaled.

Why are lenders rejecting homes with spray foam?

Some mortgage firms are reluctant to deal with homes with spray foam insulation due to concerns over poor fitting leaving moisture trapped and roof timbers at risk of decay.

How much does it cost to insulate a house with spray foam?

The average cost of spray foam insulation is $6,080, with costs typically ranging between $3,385 and $10,960. The price per board foot is $0.45 – $0.75 for open-cell spray foam and $1.00 – $1.60 for closed-cell spray foam insulation.

Does spray foam insulation void insurance?

Although spray foam insulation has been used in many homes for years, it has been known to cause issues of late with some insurance companies outright refusing to provide building insurance and mortgage lenders not accepting properties with spray foam insulation.

What is the best insulation for attics?

Fiberglass Batt and Roll Insulation

Fiberglass batt and roll insulation is a common and budget-friendly option. This insulation comes in pre-cut batts or long rolls, making it easy to fit between the framing members, like joists and trusses, in your attic.

Is 3 inches of spray foam enough?

For wall insulation, the recommended spray foam insulation thickness using closed-cell spray foam should be between 2 to 3 inches. A thickness of 4 to 5 inches will suffice for ceilings and roof decks.

Can you sleep in your house after spray foam?

Homeowners who have closed-cell spray foam insulation installed should stay out of the house for at least 48 hours. This amount of time will allow all off-gassing to subside and permit the foam to cure fully.

Does spray foam crack over time?

Properly installed spray foam remains stable for decades, but in some cases, shrinkage or cracking may occur due to: Temperature Extremes: Sudden fluctuations in temperature can cause minor contraction or expansion.

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