There are only a few words one could use to describe this mess and energy efficient isn’t it. The newly revived awareness of crawl spaces being constructed wrong for all of our building history has opened doors to many industries and spray foam insulation is one of them. I think we all have used a screwdriver as a chisel or a pair of pliers as a hammer full well knowing there was a better tool for what we were doing. I don’t have anything against spray foam insulation if it is installed by a professional and in the proper place in a home. However, I do not believe the crawl space is the proper place in a home to use it. I am sure the spray foam installers will disagree with me but from my experience there are many more cons than there are pros.

Lets look at the pros first since that is a much shorter list. I am only going to point out what is unique to spray foam, so you won’t see “insulates” as a pro.

PROS-

1. •Closed cell has a low perm rating, claiming “air tight” by most installers
   

2. •It conforms to the surface it is sprayed on
   

Ok, now onto the Cons. Again, I am only going to point out the Cons that are unique to spray foam.

CONS-

1. •Due to its low perm rating it traps moisture in wood surfaces
   

2. •It is extremely messy if installed by an inexperienced company(see pictures above)
   

3. •It is the most expensive insulation option
   

4. •Inspection of the home’s structure is impossible once sprayed
   

5. •Repairs to plumbing, electrical, phone and cable would be extremely difficult
   

6. •Could hinder the sale of the house by stopping a proper home inspection
   

7. •Voids termite warranties if sprayed on the foundation (consult with your pest control professional to know if this affects you)
   

8. •Has a HIGH odor when applied (note respirators worn by installation guy)
   

9. •Attracts bugs like the carpenter ant, they use it for nesting
   

Something to think about!

It is my opinion that spray foam is best used in above grade applications and not as a crawl space insulation. it is not the best choice of insulation, it is only one of the choices. Like using the screwdriver as a chisel, it seems like a good idea at the time. Clearly there are better products on the market and they have been proven over time to get the job done and be worth the investment if, like all insulation, it is installed correctly. Do your research and spend your money once, because there is only two ways to do something; Right and Again!

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