RetroFoam Vs. Spray Foam
Introduction:
When you start looking into insulating the walls of your home or building, it can be overwhelming to try to pick the best option for the job. RetroFoam and spray foam are both used to insulate walls but have vastly different processes, purposes and goals. Your priorities, aims and hopes for your home projects matter, and we’re here to guide you in the world of insulation.
R-Value and Air Sealing
R-value is the measurement of the insulation’s resistance to heat flow. With traditional insulation the following is true: the more R-value, the more thermal resistance and the better the insulation results. Not only does RetroFoam have a 30% higher R-value than traditional, but it provides a tight air seal other insulations cannot easily replicate. Air sealing is important because it allows control of the air inside your home when heating and cooling. Hardened RetroFoam injection foam keeps air from seeping and moving through.
Even though RetroFoam has been around for more than 35 years, it is a cutting-edge and more effective insulation solution because of how well the foam air seals in wall cavities. Why wouldn’t you want the best of both worlds?
RetroFoam Vs. Spray Foam
RetroFoam
RetroFoam is best for if you are looking to insulate the existing walls of your home. This type of insulation needs to be injected into vertical, enclosed dry wall cavities of existing homes. RetroFoam is a tripolymer based resin. When combined with the foaming catalyst and water, it becomes injection foam with the consistency of shaving cream.
With the help of Primary Home Improvement’s equipment and skillful installers, foam is added from the exterior of the home with high pressure to fill every inch and crack of the inside wall space. RetroFoam will then harden fully in about 48 hours. You are then left with insulation and benefits that last a lifetime. These rewards include sound dampening, lower energy costs, a more comfortable home with no more drafts, and insulation that will never sink or sag over time.
Spray Foam
Spray foam is best if you are looking to insulate the open walls of your new homes, pole barns, garages, or basements. Like RetroFoam, spray foam is a great air sealant as well as a sturdy material that does not settle over time. Spray foam comes in two forms; open and closed cell. Open cell spray foam insulation is the cheaper option and is a flexible substance that moves as your home settles, all while holding to the studs. Closed cell spray foam is a firmer and more solid type of insulation that can be left in exposed walls in commercial buildings or pole barns. Both types of spray foam can sound damp and keep the air more controlled.
Begin your Insulation Project with a Free Estimate
Primary Home Improvements can help kick-start your home insulation project.
If you live in the Greater Cleveland area, call 440-610-4792 or request a free estimate appointment for a detailed quote and advice from our Energy Consultants.
Click here to see the RetroFoam spec sheet.