Floor over Unconditioned Space
such as Crawl Space, Basement, or Cantilevered Floor
When the space below is unconditioned and there isn’t sufficient insulation, a floor can become uncomfortable because of the temperature difference. The floor finish may also be damaged in a humid climate. Using Elastochem spray foam insulation on the ceiling of the space under the floor can help solve these problems.
Common Problems
- Cold and uncomfortable floors
- Unwanted noises on the main floor originating from the basement
- Buckling hardwood floors due to moisture build-up in the floor system
- Existing insulation falling out due to gravity
- Conditioned air moving through un-insulated ductwork in the garage ceiling assembly or other unconditioned space cannot retain the conditioned temperature (heated air or cooled air). This causes additional discomfort for the occupants
- Where pipework enclosed within the ceiling/floor assembly is only protected by traditional insulation from the cold of the garage, frozen pipes may burst
Results of Using Elastochem Spray Foam Insulation
- Even floor temperatures for added comfort
- Quieter spaces on main floor
- Minimized potential for buckling of hardwood floors
Basement or Crawl Space
In the basement or crawl space under a building, different conditions from the house above may lead to energy loss and moisture build-up if the right insulation isn’t used. The efficiency of heating and air conditioning equipment may be affected.
It’s also possible to insulate basements or half basements so they can become living spaces.
Common Problems
- Moisture build-up on floor insulation if conventional material (insulation other than Elastochem spray foam insulation) is used
- Sweating ductwork
- Energy loss due to leaky ductwork/HVAC inefficiency
Results of Using Elastochem Spray Foam Insulation
- Conditioned area for ductwork and air handlers, allowing the HVAC equipment to operate more efficiently for increased energy savings
- Air-seal with no gaps or seams, even in difficult-to-insulate areas
- Increased durability of the structure
- Circulation of cleaner air inside the home
- Minimized infiltration of air and accompanying moisture, preventing condensation on the ductwork
Difficult-To-Insulate Spaces
Rim joists, around windows and doors, around skylights and electrical boxes are just a few of the awkward areas in a home that are difficult or impossible to insulate effectively with conventional insulation. But not with Elastochem spray foam insulation: it insulates and seals cavities of any shape to maintain an air barrier against lost energy and outdoor pollutants and airborne moisture.
Common Problems
- Designs or architectural features such as arches, cathedral ceilings, domed or vaulted ceilings or cantilevered floors can pose insulation challenges because conventional insulation doesn’t fit unusual cavities like Elastochem spray foam insulation does.
- Batting is standard-sized and must be cut, manipulated or compressed to fill unusual spaces (like electrical boxes), reducing their rated U value and sometimes requiring extra finishing materials.
- Irregular steel framing components can make insulating a challenge.
Results of Using Elastochem Spray Foam Insulation
- Elastochem spray foam insulation sticks to surrounding surfaces. No need to worry about gaps or spaces in irregular shaped areas. Unlike some other insulation types Elastochem won’t shrink, settle or sag.
- Seamless air-seal and rated insulation U value achieved in a single step, even around unusual geometry
- Increased durability of the structure and consistent U-value for the life of the building
- Minimized flow of airborne moisture and threat of condensation, especially against metal
- Flexibility of open-cell Elastochem spray foam insulation to expand and contract along with the building structure, preventing delaminating and cracking over time