Whether you’re considering spray foam insulation for your new construction, or you’re thinking about upgrading the insulation in an already existing building, it’s important to do your research on the front end. After all, the type of insulation you choose will impact not only your monthly energy bills and overall property resale value, but also the cleanliness, safety, and comfort of your home or business.
We’re here to help by answering three common and very important questions about spray foam insulation, guiding you in your decision-making process:
Can spray foam damage electrical wires?
If applied without the proper measures, processes, and precautions, spray foam could cover up a home’s electrical system and make it difficult to locate after installation. That’s why it’s important to partner with both an experienced electrician and spray foam professional, who can carefully analyze the project and your structure’s wiring system and make the best insulation recommendations.
There are many factors to consider when applying foam around electrical wires within a wall. Wire gauge needs to be sized appropriately, and the right kind of foam needs to be installed. Spray foam creates an additional layer of insulation around already insulated wires, and if the wire gauge is not properly sized, it could cause these wires to overheat, causing a hazard. Make sure your spray foam installer uses “top tier” materials that have been through all the proper testing.
Will elements of the spray foam corrode metal pipes?
It is perfectly safe to apply spray foam around all kinds of metal pipes. Since it is made from polyurethane, which is a thermoplastic polymer, spray foam does not negatively react with metals. In fact, some polyurethanes are even used to prevent pipe corrosion!
Will pipes that heat up around the foam pose a fire hazard?
Before catching fire, foam would need to reach extreme temperatures of around 680° F. Most spray foam can withstand up to 200° F before melting, which is a higher temperature than any pipes in your home would ever reach. Spray foam has a Class A Fire rating that can vary between manufacturers. For this reason, you’ll once again want to consult with an experienced spray foam professional who uses only the best fully tested and approved materials.
As a leading insulation contractor in Georgia, Epic Spray Foam is committed to excellent quality, service, and safety.
We stand behind our work and will do everything we can to make sure our customers are fully satisfied with their products and services. Give us a call at 833-362-6489 to schedule your free estimate today!
