How Much Does It Cost To Install Spray Foam Insulation?

The cost of spray foam insulation can vary widely. Costs depend on variables such as thickness, type of spray foam and square foot and more. However, with this guide, you can obtain a rough idea of how much spray foam insulation will cost for general applications. For a quick, no-obligation, instant quote you can follow the link below:

To be blunt, spray foam insulation generally costs more than your standard types of insulation such as fiberglass insulation. This is because of the advantages that spray foam has over Fiberglass. Spray foam insulation has options to choose from like open cell spray foam or closed cell spray foam. A perfect example of spray foam insulation would be Icynene spray foam.

Open Cell vs. Closed Cell

Open Cell

The type of spray foam insulation is a factor to think about when determining the cost of your insulation. A good example of open cell insulation is Icynene open cell spray foam. This type of spray foam is generally used in homes for areas such as the loft, the roof, the walls and the floors. The reason for this is because open cell insulation allows for a home to stay breathable as well as the ability to prevent rotting woods all whilst staying energy efficient.

Open cell insulation is designed to expand to 3.5 inches which is over 100x it’s liquid state. Open cell spray foam insulation provides a greater R-value due to the inches that are covered by the insulation.

More benefits can be found in our in-depth guide on open cell spray foam.

Closed Cell

Closed cell insulation is generally more suitable for areas with a metal frame such as shipping containers and boats. This type of cell insulation has other benefits such as being considered airtight and impermeable. The main difference between open cell and closed cell insulation is that the former contain cells that are deliberately left open to create flexible insulation whilst the latter fills these gaps to provide a rigid type of insulation.

Closed cell insulation is denser at around 1.5 inches which is 40x the liquid state. An example of closed cell insulation would be Icynene closed cell spray foam.

The Cost Savings and Benefits of Spray Foam

It is important to be aware of the cost savings that spray foam insulation can bring you when balancing between insulation options. Here we will explain a few:

• Decay Rates

Traditional types of insulation such as fiberglass decay over time which can leave you with further expenses down the road.

Icynene spray foam insulation however, does not decay and will mean you will never have to worry about getting a replacement.

• Energy Saving

Spray foam insulation will reduce heat loss and produce massive savings on your heating bills. With Icynene spray foam, you can see up to 50% savings on your yearly heating bills. For more information on this, see our full guide on Icynene.

Although spray foam is more expensive, you can gain your money back after 1-3 years of having the insulation installed through the amount saved on your heating bill.

• Air Leaks

When laying down fiberglass insulation, it is very common to have either small pockets of air or compressed insulation. Either of these issues will decrease the U-value of the insulation.

With spray foam, the foam expands to fill all gaps at a consistent rate meaning that you do not have gaps if the correct amount is sprayed.

• Air Impurities

Spray foam insulation is non-toxic after the installation meaning that the insulation can reduce the amount of dust and allergens in the air of your home. Spray foam is also very helpful for people with asthma and other difficulties.

• Soundproof

Another benefit of spray foam insulation is the soundproofing abilities it comes with. This will help reduce noises coming from outside the property as well as inside.

• Housing Value

Spray foam insulation installed in houses can benefit from an increase in the value of the house. Generally, houses that are deemed as energy efficient are valued ~£10’000 more than houses that aren’t.

Equipment

If you want to do the job yourself, it is possible to get the equipment needed. However, half-way through the job you will realise that it is cheaper, cleaner, and far, far quicker to get a spray foam installation expert to do it.

If you want to give it a go you will need to buy all the necessary safety equipment:

• A boiler suit
• Gloves
• Goggles
• A respirator
• A ventilation system

It is highly recommended to get a specialist to apply the spray foam as there are specifics to how the insulation should be installed. For one, the correct amounts need to be sprayed to obtain the best savings.

The Costs

• Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation is not the cheapest option but is the most effective and cost-saving choice. According to Which, spray foam insulation can cost £20 to £50 per square metre depending on type and thickness of the insulation. This figure should be taken lightly as costs do vary widely depending on many other factors.

• Equipment
  • A boiler suit = ~£50
  • Gloves = ~£20
  • A respirator + Goggles = ~£300
  • A ventilation system = (Cannot be estimated due to varying factors)

The Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many separate costs involved in spray foam insulation if done by an individual. There are many variables and factors which affect the costs involved.

Spray foam is more expensive at face value but not when considering the future and longevity of your property.

The qualities associated with spray foam is the reason for the higher price. Benefits such as soundproofing, extra energy savings and non-existent decay rates.

Mass Foam Systems are dedicated to making homes all over England more energy efficient. For more information call us on 0800 246 5051.

Back to FAQs