Alec Caldwell
Spray foam insulation – is it really safe?
Canadian Contractor ProductSpray foam is great stuff. But, improperly handled, without proper ventilation, it can make you really sick - or worse.
There seems to be confusion in the industry about the dangers of using closed cell spray foam insulation in residential homes and elsewhere. There are installation standards, but is every contractor following them?
Not so, our CARAHS members tell me. There are some contractors and workers who are not following health and safety regulations when using this stuff. Info.
Some of the basic health and safety issues are: not wearing of proper respirators with an outside air supply; workers not wearing coveralls or gloves at all times. And are homeowners still residing in the homes while this work takes place? Did you know they are not supposed to be there until two days have elapsed after completion of the job?
It’s been reported that, when installed incorrectly, spray foam insulation can result in a strong, unpleasant fishy smell from off-gassing. A smell “that can make some homes unliveable” Read CBC article.
Closed cell spray foam is supposed to provide a higher R- value than other forms of insulation in the same space. This foam is called a “two component” foam, meaning two chemicals are mixed onsite and delivered through heated hoses to a mixing gun. Here a chemical reaction happens as soon as the mixing process occurs. This is like bringing a chemical factory to someone’s home – so standards have to be followed at all times for everyone’s safety.
There are many advantages in using closed cell spray foam over other types of insulation, but installation isn’t foolproof. Some have reported problems with sloppy work, where some installers have begun spraying before the chemical components are up to temperature, which can affect performance and, if wrongly mixed, can cause shrinkage from rafters or studs, leaving cracks and more.
“Is spray foam safe” asks the CBC Marketplace show last October 2013?
In the show’s investigation they say one of the two chemicals that combine to create the foam consists mostly of highly reactive chemicals called isocyanates. Exposure to isocyanates is known to cause severe breathing and skin problems. These chemicals are reported to be a leading cause of work-related asthma, and in severe cases, fatal reactions have occurred, according to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).
Spray foam insulation is great stuff, properly used, but it can be a dangerous product, not only for the homeowner, but to every worker out their doing installation, especially if they don’t follow safety procedures. Do you know of companies who are not following safety procedure? Tell us about them in the comments field below.
CARAHS is a non-profit association for renovators and home services providers. We offer education, information and benefits.
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Youtube is loaded with video’s of these contractor’s you are speaking about here. They promote themselves as very knowledgeable men and women. In fact, if consumers do not understand right from wrong in the processing of these chemicals, they will be easily fooled. These “professionals” are very convincing.
CUFCA (Canada) and SPFA (United States) are the industry educators for spray foam. Additional resources can be found online by searching the data base of the American Chemistry Council and the Centers for Polyurethane. Re-entry times during and after installation should be inquired upon from the chemical manufacturer selected.
All spray foam is not created equal. Consumers and builders alike need to fully investigate their installer. There are many variables that go into the proper installation procedures of spray polyurethane foam insulation. Insurance requirements are not mandatory in this industry. A quick request from your contractor for insurance and a simple investigation to verify the policy is valid will save you years of headaches if something goes wrong.
In Canada, Error’s and Omission insurance (according to CUFCA) will cover damage to property when things go wrong. In the United States the same coverage plus Contractors Pollution Liability Insurance will help get a consumer back on their feet if their contractor fails to get it right. Consumers really need to understand these are chemicals. Men/women are bringing chemicals to your home. Your home becomes the laboratory. A few steps in research is well worth the effort before you enter into a contract with just any insulation company. Definitely verify the number of years your sprayer has in the spray foam industry and their ongoing training. This can be verified through the chemical manufacturer, Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association (Canada) or Spray Polyurethane Foam Association (United States) and make sure the installer your checking on is the one who pulls the spray foam trigger!
I have heard that the open cell foam insulation here in Florida is much better due to the high humidity we have. I was told by two different roofers that if your attic is sprayed with foam they will not cover the full warranty and the other roofer said he has heard nothing about it. I’m just wondering if I should have more fiberglass sprayed into the attic to allow the roof to breath through the vents. Whatever information you can give me on this matter would be greatly appreciated. Walt