- Spray foam achieves a high percentage of its “labeled” value –80% to 90%; Batt and Blown-in insulation achieves ~ 50% IMPORTANT COMPARISON: Labeled Value vs. Rated Value [See ATI and Oak Ridge studies]
- R-values of spray foam cannot be compared to R-values of Batt and Blown-in insulation, as R-value only measures resistance to heat flow in solids, and does not account for heat flow around the Batt and Blown-in through gaps, studs, and joists. Also, R-values do not account for convection, air infiltration, wind washing (strong winds), and radiation.
- Radiation is partially absorbed in attic-installed spray foam.
- Spray foam seals the attic from all air infiltration; Batt and Blown-in do not seal attic (they are built for air infiltration).
- Air infiltration from the outside enters the following toxins into the attic area: moisture, allergens, dirt, pollen, particles, dust >> these then become enmeshed in the fiberglass, and in time infiltrate the living area through the attic floor and walls. NET RESULT: Indoor Air Quality is poor in vented attics.
- Properly installed spray foam insulation creates an air-tight seal in the attic area, resulting in no outside air infiltration, no outside moisture transfer, clean indoor air quality, no mold or mildew, rodents and insects cannot enter the attic area.
- Batt and Blown-in insulation degrade, compress, and settle over time, thus reducing effective R-value. Spray foam maintains its insulation effectiveness over time.
- Oak Ridge National Laboratory (DOE’s testing facility) has reported that convection currents (resulting from air infiltration) reduce the insulation value of Batt and Blown-in insulation by 50%.
- Blown-in cellulose will displace significantly over time due to air currents blowing through a vented attic – this can drastically reduce insulation value.
- Available Tax Credits with Spray Foam insulation.
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