Polyurethane blown foam insulation is one of the most efficient insulations available to the consumer. This type of insulation is a widely used home insulation employed to provide wall insulation, garage insulation and basement insulation. It is easy to install and thinner per square inch than other popular insulators with similar R-values. It is relatively inexpensive; the cost to install this liquid foam insulation can be anywhere between $1.50 and $2.50 per square foot (cost per square foot usually depends on the thickness of the application). However, there are a number of known drawbacks and disadvantages linked with polyurethane foam insulation.
Allergic Reactions to Polyurethane Insulation
Many chemicals can bring out an allergic reaction in individuals, including the chemicals used in polyurethane spray-in foam insulation. Some people may experience an allergic reaction after inhaling, ingesting or merely handling polyurethane foam insulation. Irritation at the contact site, swelling of the affected area and redness can all indicate an allergic reaction after coming in physical contact with this type of insulation.
Exposure to Polyurethane Insulation
Toxic fumes are produced by many brands of polyurethane spray foam insulation. If inhaled, these fumes can lead to respiratory problems. Handling this type of insulation with bare hands can cause skin irritation. Overexposing a person to the fumes produced by these insulations can cause them to lose consciousness. Exposing the eyes directly to polyurethane foam insulation can lead to temporary blindness. For these reasons, a respirator or dust mask, eye goggles and gloves need to be used during the installation process. To avoid exposure, consumers can employ insulation contractors to handle the installation process.
Polyurethane Insulation and the Environment
There are a number of negative effects linked with polyurethane insulation and the environment. Some polyurethane foam insulations are not designed to be fireproof. The smoke released from this type of insulation while it burns can severely damage the respiratory system and have a negative effect on the local environment. The blowing agents used to install polyurethane foam spray insulation can be damaging to the environment because they contain greenhouse gases.
Drawbacks With Polyurethane
Aside from all the negative health effects linked with exposure to polyurethane spray on foam insulation, there are a number of other drawbacks associated with this product. In general, polyurethane insulation will cost the consumer more per square foot compared to other popular types of insulation like fiberglass. Unlike fiberglass, polyurethane spray foam and board insulation can degrade as the years pass. After several decades, the R-value of a home’s polyurethane insulation can slightly lower, decreasing the efficiency of the insulation.
Sources:
Thomas Net: Dangers of Foam Insulation
ESP Energy: Foam and Foam Board Insulation
R-Value: Deciding the Best Insulation for Homes
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