When considering spray insulation, you should know the risks associated with open-cell polyurethane foam and how much it will cost. You should also understand the health risks associated with spray insulation. Spray insulation can be expensive, so you may want to consider the benefits of other types of insulation. Read on to learn more about these insulation materials.
Cost of spray foam insulation
For an average-sized house, spray insulation in Pittsburgh is anywhere from $9,500 to $25,000. Of course, the cost will be more if you retrofit an existing house. The process is quick and easy, with holes drilled into the exterior home sheathing and the foam injected into the walls. The cost of spray foam insulation will depend on how thick you want it and how much you want it. But you should expect to pay 40 to 60 cents per square foot.
The cost of spray foam insulation for an existing home varies by square footage. A typical 2000-square-foot home will cost $6,500 for open-cell insulation and $12,500 for closed-cell insulation. However, the actual cost depends on several factors, including the house’s size, the walls’ thickness, and the number of openings. In addition, if the walls are already finished, the cost will be more if you’re not converting them to be spray-foam-insulated.
There are two types of spray foam insulation. The open-cell variety costs less but is more challenging to place and requires more material to reach an R-value. The closed-cell version is more expensive but offers greater insulation effectiveness and is more muscular, which is crucial for a sealed space. In addition, closed-cell insulation is more durable and water-resistant and can last longer than open-cell SPF. Regardless of the type, the cost will vary, and a contractor can confirm which one is the most affordable option.
Cost of open-cell polyurethane foam
The cost of open-cell polyurethane foam (OPF) spray insulation varies widely. Depending on the thickness and density, it can cost $0.44 to $1.50 per board foot, while closed-cell foam costs $0.65 to $1 per square foot. The cost also depends on the size of the project and labor costs. A contractor can estimate the cost for your project by analyzing the square footage of the space and the number of boards you wish to encapsulate.
The cost of closed-cell polyurethane foam spray insulation varies depending on the thickness and air sealing requirements. While open-cell foam insulation is cheaper, it’s challenging to install it—drilling holes in walls, rafter spaces, or other areas. Generally, the cost ranges from $0.44 to $1.50 per board foot, which is the most cost-effective type of spray insulation.
Open-cell polyurethane foam spray insulation kits are available for around $2,200 compared to $3,700 for a single application. Depending on the manufacturer, you can get up to 650 board feet of open-cell spray insulation for the exact cost of hiring a professional. A large-scale project will require two layers of foam, so a DIY kit will likely be more affordable than a professional.
Health risks of spray foam insulation
One question that often pops up about spray foam insulation is the health risks of the product. Spray foam insulation has several health risks listed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These include exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, eye irritation, shortness of breath, fever, and sore throat. The good news is that you can minimize the risks by wearing proper protective equipment during spray foam insulation projects.
First, be aware that spray foam insulation can produce a solid fishy odor if installed incorrectly. Some homeowners report an unpleasant fishy smell after installing the product. You must know what precautions are. For example, you should not eat products that have been contaminated.
Second, know what the SPF chemical is. It contains two types of liquid chemicals – isocyanates and polyol blends. These substances have been linked to respiratory and skin problems, and some SPF products may even be dangerous to children. Some of these chemicals can cause asthma and chemical sensitization. In addition, you should know that different products can have varying curing times. In the meantime, you can take precautions by reading the manufacturer’s warning labels.
