When it comes to insulation, the variety of products on offer can be overwhelming. Deciding which option is best for your project can get complicated. However, you can narrow your search by focusing on two of the leading choices, spray foam and batts. They’ve both built a solid reputation for providing long-lasting energy efficiency. If you’re wondering, should I use spray foam or batts for insulation, then you’re in luck. We’ve created this article to provide a handy comparison guide.
What is polyurethane spray foam?
Spray foam insulation starts as a liquid that, once applied, rapidly expands into a solid foam. It comes in two forms: open-cell contains cells that aren’t completely enveloped, so they’re soft and flexible; closed-cell foam is fully sealed, offering a more rigid insulation that’s better at blocking moisture and air. Each option has its benefits, but they both provide a premium method of insulation.
What are batts?
Batts are the most common type of insulation in Australia and can be made of fibreglass, mineral wool, or cellulose. Large, fluffy chunks can easily be rolled out to provide insulation across large spaces. They are usually manufactured to conveniently fit between studs.
Which insulation is best?
- Energy efficiency
Spray foam insulation has an impressive R-value which is superior to batts. This value is a measure of how well the insulation provides thermal resistance. Closed-cell spray foam has a significantly higher R-Value compared to fibreglass batts. This means you’ll be warmer in winter, cooler in summer, and will enjoy lower energy bills for years to come.
- Durability
Whether you’re insulating your home, office, or some other structure, you’ll want it to last the distance. You can expect polyurethane foam to last for over 50 years while fibreglass batts are susceptible to damage within 15-20 years.
- Ease of installation
If you’re the DIY type, then fibreglass wins when it comes to application. While it’s conceivable that a beginner could insulate a roof area using batts, the same couldn’t be said for spray foam. This product requires specialist skills and equipment and is best left to experienced professionals. If you need a spray foam insulation expert in the Perth area, then check out some of our previous projects to see what we can offer.
- Ability to insulate awkward spaces
Batts are great for insulating large open spaces with ease. However, spray foam has a big advantage over batts when it comes to completely sealing spaces that are difficult to reach. Hard to seal areas can compromise the rest of the insulated space if they allow air through. Spray foam fills any space providing a perfect seal.
- Structural integrity
Polyurethane spray foam insulation has the added advantage of adding structural integrity to any building. This is a secondary benefit that batts don’t offer.
Which insulation should I choose?
If your main focus is keeping costs low by installing insulation yourself, then batts are a good option. However, if you are looking for long-lasting insulation that offers the best energy efficiency, spray foam should be at the top of your list.
If you’d like to discuss your project with the spray foam experts, then contact us today. We’ll be happy to reel off more reasons why spray foam is now regarded as the best solution for insulation in Australia
