What are the advantages and things to consider when sealing the attic of a house with spray foam insulation?

– Mike

The biggest advantage to applying spray foam insulation to the rafters in your attic is that you’ll be creating a more energy efficient envelope around your home, which means you’ll be spending a lot less energy and dollars on heating and cooling.

However, you’ll need to take into consideration:

  • Cost: Spray foam insulation isn’t a DIY project and it’s a very expensive upgrade. Unless you plan on being in your home for many years, adding more fiberglass or cellulose insulation may be more cost effective.
 
  • Existing Insulation: Any insulation between the ceiling and the attic will need to be removed when installing spray foam insulation on the rafters.
 
  • Attic Ventilation: Any gable, soffit, louver, or power vents in the attic will need to be removed or sealed shut, since the entire attic area will be turned into conditioned space.
 
  • Windows: A well-insulated and sealed attic will have only minimal effect if you still have leaky, single-pane windows.

Good luck with your project,


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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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