Sometimes, after constructing a building or moving into a new house, we realise that utility bills are on the rise. So, to find the reason, we venture into a short session of brainstorming. After ample effort, we discover that there is a lack of insulation between the walls. Having used low thermal resistance materials, the walls are unable to maintain the optimum room temperature, leading to high electricity expenditure. Calling services to renovate your house seems like a hassle, but proper insulation is also necessary. This dilemma leads people to be stuck in between, and this is where block foam insulation provides the easiest solution.
What is Block Foam Insulation?
It is a type of insulation where liquid resin is injected via pumps inside the empty core of brick or concrete walls by drilling strategic holes on their surfaces. The liquid resin, on exposure to atmospheric air, forms a dense foam which fills the cavities. After the foam reaches the tips of the holes, the pump is stopped, and the holes are patched completely.
What is the Right Form for You?
There are various types of foam available in the market, and each of them has a different composition, which leaves us confused. So, we will discuss its properties and composition so that you can decide which type to opt for:
- Extruded Polystyrene: It is easily recognisable in distant colours such as blue, pink or green, and its thick composition effectively fills all the gaps and crevices. The chemical composition has a low perm rating, acting as a water retarder, meaning it blocks the diffusion of water, preventing structural decay via moisture in the air. Its impermeable, sturdy molecular structure also helps in enhancing the framework of your building.
- Expanded Polystyrene: It is the most versatile and budget-friendly compound widely used in many areas composed of different materials. It prevents sound from travelling through them, reducing noise pollution. Its high R value and recyclable property also help to promote sustainability.
- Polyurethane: Its high expansion rate makes it ideal for covering roofs and floors as it reaches areas not easily accessible. It has the highest R value, implying they have the best resistance to conductive heat flow. This property enables it to preserve the optimum temperature of the room, effectively leading to its popularity among consumers.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Insulation Materials
The R value per square foot is an essential factor that affects the insulation property of the foam. The amount of moisture they retain also determines their quality and price. Some foams are denser and also help in reinforcing the structural integrity of the building, increasing their cost.
Conclusion
Convert your walls into padded cushions by using foam insulation. It saves a lot of space if you inject foam to occupy the space sitting idle between walls. They fill every nook and cranny, excluding pipelines or other systems, without causing damage. If you want to picture your house wrapped in clouds, not the stormy kind but the one that hugs gently, adding foam just fits that purpose.
