At A.C.&R., we are constantly asked about various wall systems and how they perform in the DC Metro climate zone. One of the hottest topics is the performance of fiberglass batt insulation over top of spray foam, AKA "Flash and Batt". There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding these types of systems in regard to the dew point, air and vapor barriers. In early June of 2010, one of the most respected building envelope professionals, Neal Ganser, weighed in on this topic at a seminar held outside of Washington DC. His answer, you must spray at least 1" to an 1.5" of closed cell foam, depending on the product, before you place batt insulation over it in the DC Metro area. Failing to do so may result in a catastrophic building failure. Click read more to view another article questioning the use of Flash and Batt.

At A.C.&R., we are constantly asked about various wall systems and how they perform in the DC Metro climate zone. One of the hottest topics is the performance of fiberglass batt insulation over top of spray foam, AKA "Flash and Batt". There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding these types of systems in regard to the dew point, air and vapor barriers. In early June of 2010, one of the most respected building envelope professionals, Neal Ganser, weighed in on this topic at a seminar held outside of Washington DC. His answer, you must spray at least 1" to an 1.5" of closed cell foam in the DC Metro area, depending on the product, before you place batt insulation over it. Failing to do so may result in a catastrophic building failure. Click read more to view another article questioning the use of flash and batt in Western New York.

Installing Icynene spray foam insulation in your attic may qualify for the Home Improvement Tax Credit for Energy Efficiency. That means you can get up to a $1,500 credit+ simply by improving the long-term energy efficiency of your home.

The new Home Improvement Tax Credit offers U.S. homeowners up to a $1,500 credit toward qualifying home improvements – that’s three times the credit offered in 2007! This new credit applies to 30% of the cost of any insulation material that meets 2009 IEEC requirements.

When applied to the roof sheathing and attic walls to create an unvented attic, Icynene spray foam insulation and air barrier effectively minimizes air leakage (and wasteful energy loss), which can save up to 40% on your energy bills every month!

When your home isn’t leaking energy, it takes less effort to cool. This means that you could also reduce the size and cost of your HVAC equipment. Not to mention, Icynene reduces the wear and tear on your equipment so that it may last longer!

Icynene Snapshot

Icynene is 100% water-blown and contains no harmful emissions such as HFCs or PBDEs. As both insulation and air barrier, Icynene effectively minimizes airflow so that, in an unvented attic application, it dramatically reduces attic temperatures and humidity. Not only does this help you save money, but you can also enjoy a more comfortable and durable home.