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Spray Foam – The Facts

Overview

In recent times Spray Foam Insulation in the UK has received a lot of negative reviews in various media and this has lead to a lot of nervousness amongst potential and existing customers.

In addition to this some lenders have stopped lending on properties with spray foam installed due to a lack of understanding of products used and a lack of availability of paperwork for the installation.

Fortunately this situation is beginning to ease as surveyors and lenders learn the difference between open and closed cell foam, and paperwork and installation inspections are now available, in addition to plenty of advice, information and support available from manufacturers, distributors and The Insulation Manufacturers Association (IMA)

The Problem

The problems that arose with spray foam was as a result of shoddy operators applying non breathable closed cell foams directly to the underside of slates and tiles as a waterproofing and roof stabilization solution.

The problem was that these roofs were already failing and were in no condition to receive spray foam and this resulted in the trapping of moisture which expediated the failure of the roof. Unfortunately the media, lenders and a number of property associations has taken a blanket approach to spray foam in general and have ignored the huge numbers of foams properly applied to roof membranes and felts the majority of which is open cell. Do note that this issue is only applicable in the UK and these applications have not taken place in Ireland.

To keep everything in perspective GMS Insulations Ltd have been involved in approximately 150,000 spray foam applications in the UK and Ireland since 2004 and problems with roofs or otherwise only represent 0.0001% of these installations

Resources Available

To provide factually correct information regarding Spray Foam Insulation the IMA have produced a range of documents in order to ease the fears of existing and potential customers and these links can be followed below.

insulation manufacturers association

The Future

Spray foam insulation has been on the market for over 60 years and is the most effective form of insulation providing a lifetime of insulation and air tightness for the comfort and longevity of your property.

Spray Foam is the best choice for your insulation upgrade, renovation or new build property however there are a number of criteria you will need to follow for a successful safe application.

  • Only use a well-recognised brand like Elastochem, avoid generic spray foams
  • Make sure the product has full Agrement certification like KIWA, BBA or NSAI to the applicable building regulations
  • Check that the installer is registered and approved by the manufacturer or distributor and is fully trained
  • Make sure the installer has a full quality management system in place in accordance with the manufacturer or distributor
  • Make sure the installer is part of a third party approval and monitoring scheme
  • Insist on a full homeowner pack which will include but not limited to pre-installation survey, information on the product used, product certification, U value and condensation risk analysis, before and after photos, attic notice, product warranty

If you follow the above procedure there is zero risk with your property and you will enjoy a lifetime of energy savings and quiet comfort.