Frequently Asked Questions

Q: If I insulate with sprayfoam, will I need an air exchanger?
A: Whether new construction or newly renovated, you will need an air exchanger if you are sealing the entire building envelope. Otherwise the answer will depend on the individual site. Feel free to ask us for a free evaluation.

Q: Will I still need air venting if I use SPF insulation throughout my building?
A: Venting was designed as a means of carrying moisture out of fibrous insulation, to prevent the fibre from losing its thermal efficiency. However, if no air can enter or go through the insulation, there’s a very good probability that moisture can’t either! Contact us for a free evaluation.

Q: Can I still “fish” electrical wires through sprayfoam?
A: If you are insulating with ½ lb open-cell foam the answer is yes. ½ lb foam is ideal for fishing wires because the wires will not displace the insulation and create air pockets like they do with traditional batts, and the foam is spongy enough to accept the wires with relative ease. Conversely the 2 lb foam is much more rigid, but because it typically does not fill the entire cavity there is usually enough space between the drywall and the foam to allow for easy fishing.

Q: Does your sprayfoam insulation meet the requirements of the National Building Code?
A: Yes. Our products are approved by the Canadian Construction Materials Centre, and have been rigorously tested by ULC and Warnock-Hersey. SPFI is an accepted building material in both the National Building Code and the Nova Scotia Building Code.

Q: If I use sprayfoam, do I need a vapour barrier?
A: Yes, if it is a heated space you will most likely still need a vapour barrier. Contact us for details, as there are exceptions.

Q: Is it safe to remain in the building during the spray application process?
A: As the heated foam makes contact with a surface, it will “mist” for up to fifteen seconds while it cools down and hardens. As a result, individuals and/or other trades should not remain within 10 metres (30 feet) of the sprayers.

Q: If my house is being sprayed, can I resume full occupancy immediately afterwards?
A: As a precaution we recommend that you wait a full 24 hours before resuming full occupancy of your home.

Q: Can I use sprayfoam on rock or metal?
A: Yes. Again, the type of foam you choose will largely depend on the site, but our foams do adhere to rock and metal. In fact, boulder foundations, Quonset huts and I-beams are ideal applications for sprayfoam insulation.

Q: Can I apply polyurethane foam myself?
A: Only trained and certified applicators are permitted to apply SPFI. Consumers should ask their installer for proof of certification and insist on a product with a CCMC evaluation number.

Q: Is SPFI environmentally friendly?
A: It is non-ozone depleting, and significantly reduces fossil fuel consumption.

Q: Does SPFI contain any Formaldehyde?
A: Absolutely not. Spray foam is made from the same resinous material found in your computer, the dashboard of your car, and the foam around your windows and doors. It has been used as an effective insulator since the 1960’s.