So you’ve decided to up your home’s comfort and energy efficiency with spray foam insulation – that’s a fantastic decision! But with so much to think about, you might be wondering when exactly to schedule the installation. At Above All Insulation, we’re here to answer all your questions about spray foam, including the best time of year to get it installed.
The good news is that spray foam insulation can be installed throughout the year, with some considerations depending on the season. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of installation in different seasons.
What is the best temperature to install spray foam?
At Above All Insulation we prefer installing closed-cell spray foam, because it’s a denser type of spray foam with a higher R-value, offering superior insulation and moisture resistance. Did you know, spray foam insulation needs the right conditions to work its magic. For optimal results, the surface must be dry, free of moisture, and at a comfortable temperature between 15°C and 25°C. This range allows the foam to be sprayed evenly and cure properly into a hard, insulating barrier. If it’s too cold, the foam can stay sticky, shrink, or become pliable, which defeats its purpose. While heaters can help warm up surfaces, extremely cold weather should be avoided for best results.
Why is spring a good time to install spray foam insulation?
Spring is a great time to install spray foam insulation for a number of reasons:
- Pleasant Temperatures: Spring weather is typically mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to the mid 20°C. These moderate temperatures are ideal for spray foam, allowing it to spread evenly and cure properly.
- Less Humidity: The air is usually drier in the spring, which helps the foam cure smoothly. High humidity can interfere with the curing process, potentially affecting the foam’s density and overall performance.
- Easier Access: Spring’s warm weather thaws the ground, making it much easier to access overlooked areas of your home like crawl spaces. This means your insulation professionals can seal up those gaps and cracks without any obstacles.
Why is fall a good time to install spray foam insulation?
Fall is another excellent season to consider spray foam insulation installation for similar reasons to spring:
- Comfortable temperatures: Fall weather mirror’s spring weather, with mild temperatures that are ideal for proper cell spray foam curing.
- Preparation for winter: Fall is a great time to get your home winter-ready, and spray foam is a fantastic investment in energy efficiency. A well-insulated home will stay warmer in the winter, reducing your furnace use, keeping energy bills down and warm air in.
- Less Humidity: Just like spring, fall offers mild temperatures that create the perfect environment for the foam to cure properly. The air tends to be drier in the fall too, which helps the curing process by reducing moisture interference.
- Easier Access: Fall’s mild temperatures make it easier to access hard-to-reach areas like crawl spaces. With the ground thawed from summer, insulation professionals can effortlessly reach those hidden spots to seal up drafts and energy leaks.
Can spray foam insulation be installed in the winter?
Yes, spray foam insulation can be installed in the winter, but it is more challenging. While spring and fall offer ideal conditions, spray foam insulation can also be installed in winter. Here are some things to consider for winter installation:
- Temperature Limitations: Most spray foam insulation products require a minimum application temperature, often around 0°C – 10°C. If temperatures dip below this range, the foam may not cure properly.
- Heating the Area: Reputable insulation contractors will have the necessary equipment to heat the workspace and ensure the proper curing temperature for applying spray foam in winter.
- Specialty Winter-Ready Foam: However, there are special cell spray foam blends designed to withstand cold weather and cold temperatures, allowing for successful insulation installation even in winter conditions.
What are the benefits of spray foam insulation?
No matter what time of year you choose to install, you’ll reap the rewards of this high-performance insulation material year-round. Here are some of the benefits of closed cell spray foam:
- Superior R-Value: Cell spray foam boasts a superior R-value compared to traditional insulation, creating a formidable barrier against heat transfer. It creates a superior seal that minimizes air leaks, preventing drafts and hot spots.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: With less heat transfer happening through your walls and attic, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to maintain a comfortable temperature. This translates to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
- Structural Reinforcement: Spray foam acts as a reinforcing agent and adds strength and stability to walls. It does this by filling gaps and creating a rigid, protective layer that enhances the overall structural integrity of your home.
- Enhanced Moisture Control: Closed-cell spray foam insulation is a vapour barrier, which helps to prevent moisture and condensation from building up within your walls, preventing mold and mildew growth.
- Soundproofing: Spray foam insulation also acts as a sound barrier, absorbing and blocking unwanted noise from outside and between rooms, creating a quieter and more peaceful living environment.
- Lifetime Performance: Unlike traditional insulation that can settle or deteriorate over time, spray foam maintains its insulating power and air-sealing abilities for the entire lifespan of your home, providing consistent energy savings and comfort.
While spring and fall offer the most favourable conditions for spray foam insulation due to mild temperatures and low humidity, this versatile insulation material can be installed throughout the year with proper planning and experienced contractors. From improving energy efficiency, and comfort to enhancing your home’s soundproofing and durability, the benefits of spray foam insulation are undeniable. Experience the spray foam difference with Above All Insulation.
Considering spray foam insulation? Contact us today for a free consultation and estimate. We’ll be happy to discuss your project and recommend the best time of year for installing spray foam insulation in your Winnipeg home!