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LICENSED, BONDED & INSUREDWe serve commercial and residential customers across the Pensacola, FL with a variety of insulation services.
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Are you looking for a certified local insulation contractor for high quality spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL? Whether you are insulating a residential or commercial property, Coastline Insulation offers a wide range of insulation services, including sound dampening, insulation removal, as well as fiberglass and spray foam insulation installation in Pensacola.
Besides keeping your home cool in summer and warm the in winter, insulation helps cut down your energy costs. With these and even more benefits, spray foam for home insulation is a no-brainer. That said, navigating through the world of insulation methods and materials can be somewhat tricky, particularly for the uninformed. Here on our website we’ve produced an in-depth tour of spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL – its benefits, how it works and everything in between.
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What is Spray Foam Insulation?Spray foam insulation, or spray polyurethane foam (SPF), refers to an insulation technique which involves the use of a combination of liquid chemicals to create a foam-like substance used for insulating.
When sprayed, the content expands quickly and fills up the tiniest gaps and cracks. The foam hardens incredibly fast to form a thick air blockade. Typically, this formula may expand to as much as over thirty percent of the initial size and tailor-fit frames in your residential or commercial property. In Pensacola, FL, spray foam insulation companies use products made by different manufacturers and with varying formulations. While some use gas propellant – which is widely considered toxic – other use vegetable oil or soy as a fuel. Among the lot, Lycnene uses water, which makes them a more natural and, thus, widely recommended. |
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Types of Spray Foam Insulation
Spray polyurethane foam insulation is typically produced in two formulations; open-cell and closed-cell foam insulation.
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Open Cell Spray Foam InsulationOpen-cell spray insulation is a low-density material, generally used for wall cavities, attics, roof deck undersides, crawlspaces, basement walls, and other similar interior applications. This soft and low density allows moisture to pass through and help manage moisture and allowing the wall assembly to dry out in two directions.
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Closed-Cell Spray Foam InsulationTypically, closed-cell spray foam is a more expensive residential insulation option. Although, with the correct application, it outperforms other forms of insulation. It does commendably well in blocking out air, comes effective against vapor and is moisture resistant. Even more, its glue-like tenacity and density further strengthen your roof assembly, ceiling, or/and walls.
When it comes to sealing air leaks in new constructions or a retrofit application, prefer a closed-cell spray foam. That said, eco-friendly builders, do not encourage closed-cell spray foam since its blowing agents are mostly hydrofluorocarbons which increase the global warming threat. Lately, however, increasing producers now use hydrofluoroolefin as a blowing agent. Since it comes with less environmental threats, they are becoming a popular ingredient for spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL. |
Other Forms of Insulation
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Blown-in InsulationAlso known as loose-fill, the blown-in insulation uses socialized pneumatic tools to spray in strands of cellulose, mineral wool, or fiberglass into an area. The method is highly versatile and can fit well into several locations, including attic floors, open or enclosed wall cavities, and related hard-to-reach regions.
However, one major disadvantage of this insulation method is that its material may soon settle and ruin the insulation project over time. |
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Batts and rollAlso referred to as blanket insulation, this is widely popular. They come in easily mobile fiberglass pre-cuts or other natural fibers and flexible plastic. This option is mostly used among DIYers mainly for exterior walls and attic due to their relative convenience.
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Reflective insulationThis involves placing papers, foils, films, or other reflective materials in ceilings, attics, unfinished walls, and floors. Besides reducing heat flow, as with most insulators, this system reflects, or redirects, heat away from your property. Hence, this is mostly recommended for hot climates.
Although a DIY is possible with this method, wrong spacing of the materials can ruin its effectiveness. |
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Foam boardFoam board is also referred to as foam insulation. It involves the use of rigid insulation panels and helps cut down heat transfer via structural elements.
The panels are designed with polyurethane or polystyrene. Regardless of the insulations' thin size, the insulating value is surprisingly high. |
Common Types of Insulation Material
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FiberglassThis is a common insulation material. However, with the glass powder and tiny glass shards, handling can be dangerous and may cause damage to the skin, eyes, and even lungs. So, it's best handled by professionals. However, these options are non-flammable, inexpensive, and helps reduce sound and heat flow.
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CelluloseHere's another common insulation option. It is eco-friendly as it comes from recycled materials such as paper and cardboard. Although it comes loose, after installation, it becomes compacted and with almost zero oxygen. With the lack of oxygen, the damage is often minimal in the event of a fire outbreak.
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Mineral WoolThis material is derived from recycled glass, rock wool, basalt-derived rock wool, or slag wool formed from slag sourced from steel mills. These wools are in loose material or batts. Expectedly, this material is not fire-resistant but does well in preventing mildew growth.
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Polyurethane FoamThis is a lightweight insulator material with impressively high potency. The foams are applied with the spray foam insulation technique. Thankfully, this material is fire-resistant.
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Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation
Here are primary perks of using spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL for your home or commercial property:
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1. Cooling and heatingOne unique function of the spray foam is its ability to cover the smallest of crevices and cracks. When sprayed, the foam expands and covers such small air leaks, dries up and block not just water and air, but cold and heat.
Based on your region, you can cut down a whole lot on your cooling or/and heating bills with foam spray insulation. For instance, using spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL, is a typical example. So, although foam spray is a relatively more expensive form of insulation, it slashes down your energy budget on the long run. |
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2. Reduces Noise TransferIf your new neighbor isn't a quiet one, you'd be better off with foam insulation. The open cell option, for instance, can significantly lockout noise, far more than the other forms.
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3. Reduces Airborne Allergens and PollenSpray foam insulation also helps curb the rate of allergens or pollen that get into your building through leaks in walls. Since the foam seals crevices and cracks, it blocks bad air, and, in turn, reduces the likelihood of respiratory conditions and allergies. The less air that 'sneaks' in, the lower chances of flu and, in turn, less medical costs.
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4. Prevents Little Rodents, Insects and BugsThose little crevices in your walls are the entry routes of rodents, bugs, and ants that share your space. A closed-cell spray is your best bet against these annoying little intruders and their resultant effects on health and environment.
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5. Prevents Growth of Mildew and MoldsBoth closed and open-cell foam spray options serve as functional barriers against moisture. Although they both reduce condensation formation, the closed-cell spray options are a formidable barrier against large water bodies. The less water your walls absorb, the lesser risk of mildew and mold-related concerns.
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6. DurableSpray foam insulation offers way more lasting solutions than Styrofoam and Fiberglass. Typically, fiberglass sags and Styrofoam cracks over time, hence the need for routine replacement. Although its initial installation is costlier, spray foam insulation neither breaks nor sags over the years.
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7. Eco-friendlyIf you're a 'go-green' campaigner, think spray foam insulation. This option cuts down on energy consumption and prevents mildew and mold. Besides, it requires fewer materials since it lasts longer than the other options.
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Can I DIY spray foam insulation?
Yes, you can.
It's possible to acquire the necessities and handle the job yourself. However, most persons who considered this option only found it halfway into the task that it would have been cleaner, faster, and a lot cheaper to hire a professional for your spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL.
That said, if you insist on a DIY project, here are some safety kits to acquire
Well, while buying all the items is one thing, it's an entirely different ball game to make a thick foam without gaps. Even more, the correct application isn't a cakewalk.
These are critical aspects of the entire process. Without extensive training and regular practicing, the chances of ruining the whole project are high.
It's possible to acquire the necessities and handle the job yourself. However, most persons who considered this option only found it halfway into the task that it would have been cleaner, faster, and a lot cheaper to hire a professional for your spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL.
That said, if you insist on a DIY project, here are some safety kits to acquire
- Gloves
- Boiler suit
- Respirator
- Goggles
Well, while buying all the items is one thing, it's an entirely different ball game to make a thick foam without gaps. Even more, the correct application isn't a cakewalk.
These are critical aspects of the entire process. Without extensive training and regular practicing, the chances of ruining the whole project are high.
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How safe is spray foam insulation?
Spray foam insulation is safe.
However, some persons may react negatively to the fumes during installation. So, we often advise occupants of project properties to vacate the premises within the spray period and 24 hours after – a process referred to as off-gassing.
After this period, reassuringly, your home or commercial premises become as safe as ever – even safer.
However, some persons may react negatively to the fumes during installation. So, we often advise occupants of project properties to vacate the premises within the spray period and 24 hours after – a process referred to as off-gassing.
After this period, reassuringly, your home or commercial premises become as safe as ever – even safer.
How much does spray foam cost?
There is no universal pricing for spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL. Some factors determine how much you'd spend. But generally, spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL, is about twice the cost of the conventional fiberglass alternative.
Some factors that dictate cost include the project size, your preferred foam, wether existing insulation needs to be removed, and whether your municipality requires a need for extra barriers.
That said, in the end, the extra cost will be well worth it, and would undoubtedly outperform the conventional insulation – if installed correctly by experts.
Some factors that dictate cost include the project size, your preferred foam, wether existing insulation needs to be removed, and whether your municipality requires a need for extra barriers.
That said, in the end, the extra cost will be well worth it, and would undoubtedly outperform the conventional insulation – if installed correctly by experts.
How soon will I need to replace my spray foam insulation?
Perhaps never.
Where there are no disturbances from physical elements, and direct extreme sun rays, your spray foam insulation Pensacola, FL, should last indefinitely. Yes, it holds up as long as your building does.
Where there are no disturbances from physical elements, and direct extreme sun rays, your spray foam insulation Pensacola, FL, should last indefinitely. Yes, it holds up as long as your building does.
How can I prevent spray foam related issues?
With well-mixed chemicals under the ideal temperature and with correct application, there's hardly ever a thing as spray foam issues after installation.
Sadly, some DIYers and fly-by-night contractors of spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL make a mess of the projects. Such poor installations often lead to comfort concerns, moisture problems and even more financial drain.
Recurrently, we receive calls to re-work such botched spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL. On inspection, the shortcomings of the so-called contractors were evident. Here are typical issues we usually encounter:
Sadly, some DIYers and fly-by-night contractors of spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL make a mess of the projects. Such poor installations often lead to comfort concerns, moisture problems and even more financial drain.
Recurrently, we receive calls to re-work such botched spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL. On inspection, the shortcomings of the so-called contractors were evident. Here are typical issues we usually encounter:
- Spray foam applied is not thick enough
- The installer skipped some air leakages
- The spray foam insulation contractor had little understanding of the building envelope
Installing spray foam in a new construction vs. an existing building
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For new buildings or significant renovations, flash and batt – which involves the use of both spray foam and fiberglass batt – are ideal for exterior walls.
For old homes, it's best to spray the basement or crawlspace and attic. This provides more comfort, and more so, better energy efficiency. Within existing homes, injection foam insulation is used to insulate walls and is an entirely different process. Although applications vary across different jobs, typically, we recommend closed-cell foam insulation for crawlspace and basements, while open-cell is ideal for your attic. Since it allows the passage of moisture, open-cell foam is typically best for attics. This allows you to detect a leaking roof as the water passes. Conversely, since closed-cell foam traps water, it's not a standard recommendation for attics as it may hold in water from leaks, which often lead to rot and eventual roof damage. |
What is the R-value of spray foam insulation?
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The R-value measures the thermal resistance of your spray foam. The higher your R-value, the better insulated your home. While the R-value for closed-cell foam is around R-6 and R-7, the value for open-cell variant is between R-3.5 to R-3.6 per inch.
If you seek more insulation and warmth in your space, use spray foams with higher R-Value – otherwise, a low R-Value will do. Closed-cell options are airtight, hence offer more warmth. |
How does your spray foam insulation process work?
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Here's an overview explaining how we carry out our spray foam insulation service in Pensacola, FL.
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Contact Us
For a professional spray foam insulation in Pensacola, FL, contact us today for a free inspection or a no-obligation quote. We have a well-seasoned team of insulation experts with several years of experience in the construction industry. Here at Coastline Insulation, our customers' satisfaction is our priority.