Spray Foam Insulation in Hutchinson, KS

Spray foam insulation goes on as a liquid, expands and hardens in place, sealing cracks and gaps as it insulates. In Hutchinson-area homes and buildings it shines in a few places: the rim joist where the house sits on its foundation, basement and crawl space walls, sloped ceilings and roof decks, walls opened during a remodel, and the inside of steel buildings.

Closed-cell foam

Dense and rigid, closed-cell foam rates about R-5 to R-7 per inch (HomeGuide) and slows water vapor at typical thickness. It is the go-to for steel shops and pole barns, rim joists and basement walls. HomeGuide lists it at $3.00 to $5.00 per square foot installed.

Open-cell foam

Softer and lighter, open-cell foam runs about R-3.5 to R-3.7 per inch and $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot. It seals air well and is common in walls and under roof decks. It lets vapor through, so we do not use it against cold, damp surfaces.

When we suggest something else

On an open attic floor with room for depth, sealing the leaks and blowing in cellulose or fiberglass usually reaches a higher R-value for less money. We say so.

Two seasons to plan for

With about 63 days over 90F and 120 mornings below freezing in Hutchinson, insulation earns its keep in both seasons. Foam's air sealing helps with summer heat and humidity as much as with winter drafts.

Curing and temperature

HomeGuide advises staying out 24 hours or more while foam cures. Foam also needs minimum temperatures to cure properly; for unheated buildings in winter, we plan around the weather or heat the space first.

New construction

For new homes and shops, Fixr lists foam at $2.75 to $6.50 per square foot. We work after rough-in and before drywall or liner panels.

Comparing quotes

When you compare spray foam insulation companies, ask each for the foam type, thickness and R-value for every surface, plus how prep and cleanup are handled. That makes bids comparable.