Why use Spray Foam?

With some of the highest insulation R-values available, spray foam insulation can improve efficiency and comfort. Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a versatile insulation and sealant that can create a continuous air barrier on multiple surfaces in homes or buildings, including ceilings, walls and concrete slabs.

Up to 40 percent of a building’s energy is lost due to air infiltration. Gaps and air leaks allow expensive heating and air conditioning to go to waste, and needlessly increase energy bills.

An alternative to traditional cellulose and fiberglass insulation, spray foam insulation resists heat transfer and insulates and seals gaps. SPF creates a tight barrier and prevents hot and cold air, vapour and moisture from penetrating into a building’s interior. It can also be an effective a sound barrier.

When applied, spray polyurethane foam expands to insulate and fill cracks and gaps to provide a consistent air seal.

Open Cell

Open cell spray foam insulation is used in domestic application – attic insulation, roof insulation, floor and wall insulation. As the cells are open, water vapour is able to pass through the foam allowing your roof timbers to breath while maintaining a total airtight seal. Open cell foam is often used as sound spray insulation because, by blocking airflow, it blocks noise too.

The foam itself expands to over 200 times its size allowing it to find every nook and cranny creating an airtight seal, preventing heat loss, and regulating temperature. It is one of the most versatile insulation materials on the market today.


Closed Cell

Closed cell spray foam expands less than open cell and is more compact and rigid. It is typically used to insulate steel and concrete can be used indoors and outdoors. Since it is denser, it has a higher u-value and is therefore a better insulator. Closed cell foam is almost moisture resistant and therefore can be used where dampness might be an issue.

Red Letter Supplies recommends closed cell spray foam for its resistance, cost-effectiveness, and longevity.


Floor Insulation

There is a spray foam product designed specifically for use in floors. Its performance is excellent in terms of creep, compression and with its high compressive strength, it safeguards its constant thickness, throughout its useful life.

It can be applied directly to the subfloor, and a screed poured on top. It also acts as a waterproof and radon membrane. Sprayed polyurethane insulating foam is the most effective solution for insulating against the radon gas released by rocky ground.


Cavity Foam

At one time it was common to fill the cavity between 2 layers of blocks with sheets of polystyrene. These were not thick enough to give any proper insulation and tended to disintegrate and fall over time. Pouring foam for cavities can fill in and around these, and any other obstructions in the cavity, to provide a full thermal insulation reducing cold bridging.

It provides complete suppression of thermal bridges. The insulation has no joints or gaps since it is a continuous form of insulation. It has strong surface adhesion so there is no need to use adhesives or glues to install the product.


Specialist Foam

At Red Letter Supplies we can offer a whole range of specialist foams for industrial, marine, and commercial projects.

Please contact us to discuss the needs for your specific project and we will work with you to find the right solution for you.