Top 5 Rookie Mistakes Made During DIY Spray Foam Insulation Projects

Having been in business for over 40 years, there are countless scenarios where Lindus Construction has been called upon to fix expanding foam fails caused by inexperienced contactors and homeowners that waved the white flag on DIY projects.  When it comes to insulation, there are many missteps that can have detrimental long-term consequences.  Here’s a list of cardinal sins that those unfamiliar with spray foam insulation can commit.

Mistake #1: Selecting A Cheap Spray Foam Material

Not all spray foams are created equally.  Those of a lesser quality fail to adhere to the surface they’re being installed on.  If moisture levels are incorrect, there can even be spray foam insulation mold problems and mildew growth.  To learn more, check out this guide on open cell vs. closed cell spray foam insulation.

Mistake #2: Incorrect Mix Of Spray Foam Chemicals

For the chemicals in expanding foam insulation to stick to the area they’re being applied to, they must be properly mixed on-site at the correct ratio and temperature.  Equipment must be correctly calibrated and be in good working order.  Tell-tale signs that the spray foam was not mixed properly include lingering smells and waxy debris.  Furthermore, improper installation can have lingering consequences that are dangerous to your health. Spray foam headaches, breathing problems, and skin and eye irritation can be the result of being exposed to chemicals before it has had a chance to set.

Mistake #3: Ignoring A Layered Approach For Correct Spray Foam Insulation Thickness

Foam insulation must be installed in a quick, even, controlled manner.  A common rookie mistake is not understanding that the insulation must be installed in layers and that each pass needs to expand and cool before another can be added.  Varying from this means the first layer may not have as much volume as it should, making the foam less effective and contributing to higher long-term energy costs.  There’s also risk of a perpetual, pungent odor because the spray foam became too hot.

Mistake #4 Rushing Through The Job Can Cause Long-Term Insulation Issues

Spray foam insulation issues can stem from rushing through the application.  This can create rifts and even leave spots that have been missed, which will create unnecessarily high energy bills.  This makes it important that you don’t pressure a spray foam insulation contractor to move you up on their schedule or quickly complete the work once they arrive at your home.

Watch An Insulation Project Recently Completed by Our Insulation Experts:

Mistake #5: Skipping Necessary Spray Foam Insulation Preparation Steps

Before the insulation dries, the consistency  is like that of heavy glue or paint.  Upon contact, spray foam is designed to suction itself to the surface it’s sprayed on and then expand.  Even reputable installers can have issues with overspray.  Recognizing this, they go out of their way to clear rooms of furniture, wall hangings, light fixtures, etc. Items that cannot be moved should be shrouded to protect from overspray.  Once spray foam is applied to an incorrect surface, it can be impossible to fully remove.