What is roof foam insulation and why should you have it removed?

Roof Foam Insulation, otherwise known as Spray Foam (or spray polyurethane foam), has become a somewhat common alternative to traditional building insulations, whether that be wool, fibreglass or mineral fibre rolls. Being a somewhat common form of insulation, it may come as a surprise to find out why it causes problems and why you may need to get it removed.

Like most things, there are of course positives to R.F.I (otherwise, why would anybody get it to begin with?), but its downsides often come into play eventually. Let’s get into it….

What is roof foam insulation?

Roof Foam Insulation (Spray Foam Insulation) comes as a liquid foam that once sprayed into place, expands, and hardens into an insulating layer on a roof. It can be sprayed on both the interior and exterior of a roof, but it has also been found to be used to insulate lofts, walls, and even floors!

There are 2 main forms of spray foam insulation:

1. Closed Cell
Closed cell foam is dense, with the cells being completely closed, this makes it a very good insulator. Although, it becomes a barrier to moisture and air, which can reduce the ventilation where it is placed.
2. Open Cell
Open cell foam is less dense and has cells that are not completely encapsulated. It is more flexible and breathable than its closed cell counterpart. With this form of insulation, a thicker layer is needed to provide sufficient insulation.

A standout benefit of spray foam is its insulating abilities, as its solid coating makes it have greater insulating properties than many alternatives. It is also versatile, flexible, and can even help to support a buildings structure.

Why remove roof foam insulation?

As discussed above, the benefits of roof foam insulation are undeniable, which is likely the reason you have it in your property now. However, spray foam insulation comes with its faults. Let’s get into some of the reasons it may need removed:

• Property Surveyors will down-value properties with this kind of insulation due the damage it can cause because of trapped moisture and condensation.
• You may be denied a mortgage on a property with spray foam insulation that is applied to the loft or roof, as lenders don’t like it.
• Spray foam insulation can contribute to condensation and damp, which can cause a multitude of issues, such as decaying roof timbers, which in turn, affects the stability and structure of your property.
• Spray foam insulation makes it very difficult to carry out roof repairs, such as broken tiles or leaks, due to its hardened structural properties.
• It is not visually pleasing and can be hard to cover or decorate.
• Wood rut, condensation and decay are often consequences of roof foam insulation, and in the long term, properties with this form of insulation will often need a new roof.

The question is, is spray foam roof insulation worth it? We’ll let you make that decision…

Do you want your roof foam insulation removed?

Our team of roof foam insulation specialists and damp-proofing specialists can provide an assessment, quote, and any other information you may need to determine if you should proceed with R.F.I removal.

CavClear specialise in providing a prompt, cost-effective and friendly solution to removing R.F.I and other issues. Our team of fully accredited and qualified professionals will ensure your property is in the safest of hands.

Don’t let the issue get out of hand… Get in touch with our friendly team by calling 0333 220 2463 or contact us.