Spray foam is great for insulating commercial spaces as well as residential. It is well known that spray foam insulates wooden structures better than alternatives, but what about metal buildings? Let's break down the advantages and disadvantages of spray foam on metal structures.
Can You Spray Foam a Metal Building?
The short answer is yes; it is definitely possible to insulate a metal building with spray foam.
Metal buildings are known for their strength and durability, but not necessarily comfort. Spray foam insulation offers a great solution to the problem, by transforming metal buildings into temperature controlled, energy efficient spaces.
Let's examine the top seven benefits of insulating a steel building with spray foam.
1. Superior Insulation
Closed-cell spray foam reduces heat transfer better than any other type of insulation on the market.
The extra heat resistance of spray foam insulation is a revelation for metal buildings, which conduct heat better than other building materials. Plus, spray foam fits into all the nooks and crannies that fiberglass batts can not reach.
2. Air Sealing
Traditional insulation always leaves air leaks, which can create drafts that reduce the energy efficiency of a steel building.
The most common gaps, cracks, and penetrations that cause air leaks include those found near:
- Doors
- Windows
- Chimneys
- Recessed lights
- Plumbing vents
- Attic hatches
Air sealing also improves indoor air quality by keeping pollution and allergens out of the house. It also reduces obnoxious street noise.
3. Moisture Barrier
Spray foam insulation creates an effective vapor barrier for a metal building, preventing moisture intrusion and condensation problems. Closed-cell spray foam also creates a waterproof seal, even in the toughest spots to reach.
Spray foam is an excellent choice for pole barns, able to keep livestock comfortable. It's also a great choice for metal sheds to protect equipment from the elements.
4. Structural Strength
One of the greatest benefits of spray foam insulation for a metal building is reinforced structural strength.
Closed-cell spray foam exhibits considerable compressive strength, improving the structural integrity of metal buildings by providing extra support to metal panels.
If a panel suffers damage, the property owner can replace it and reapply spray foam. Spray foam costs less per square foot than the metal panel itself.
5. Reduced Carbon Footprint
Open and closed-cell spray foam allow property owners to shrink their carbon footprints through lower energy consumption.
More than any other type of insulation, spray foam maintains a comfortable temperature inside a metal building, leading to less frequent use of the furnace, air conditioner, and fan. Over time, this decrease in energy usage becomes a net gain for the environment.
6. Mold Prevention
When moisture sets in, mold and mildew growth can affect the health of a metal building's occupants.
When it comes to mold prevention, closed-cell spray foam performs better than open-cell spray foam. However, both options provide ample protection against humid weather and condensation because they are made of an inert polymer that does not permit mold growth.
7. Lower Utility Bills
Save money on utility bills by installing open and closed-cell spray foam.
Not only does spray foam keep conditioned air inside a metal building, but it also improves the efficiency of an HVAC system by maintaining air temperature in the ducts and vents.
Within a few short years, spray foam insulation can pay for itself through decreased climate control usage and lowered utility bills.
How Professionals Use Spray Foam Insulation for Metal Buildings
Building owners should not try to spray insulation themselves. They should hire a trained professional instead. Spray foam insulation in steel buildings offers several benefits, but only if an expert technician installs it correctly. Some of the steps an experienced installer will follow include:
- Reviewing information provided by the metal roof panel manufacturer
- Consulting with electricians and HVAC technicians
- Creating a perfect building envelope by layering metal panels with spray foam insulation
- Selecting closed-cell spray foam to insulate a metal building
- Working from the outside in to avoid structural damage at the joints
- Treating the spray foam to increase its longevity
Metal Building Spray Insulation Experts
Do you own a drafty metal building? Why not make it more comfortable and save on energy costs with spray foam insulation for metal buildings? Our expert spray foam installers have worked with every type of metal building and delivered flawless results. Call Pro Foam at (888) 550-0011 to book a free consultation.
