How to Install High Density Foam Insulation

  • 2-8 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 250-1,000
What You'll Need
Glasses
Gloves
Foam insulation
Area to be insulation
Tank
Frame
Hammer
Nails
Measuring tape
What You'll Need
Glasses
Gloves
Foam insulation
Area to be insulation
Tank
Frame
Hammer
Nails
Measuring tape

Installing high density foam insulation is one of the best things that you can do for your home as it is not only great for keeping out harsh climates, but also bugs and mold. If you are new to insulation overall, here are a few steps that can help you through the installation process with ease.

Step 1 - Preparing the Area

The first thing that you will want to do is prepare the area that needs to be insulated. You are going to have to sweep around to make sure that any dust or debris is gone and then wipe down any surface areas. While not everyone cleans the area thoroughly, the best chance at getting a secure hold because it begins as a liquid foam is to spray onto a surface that is clean. If you have any outlets in the area you will want them to have no power or completely remove them. This is a common mistake that people make when installing their insulation and it can end up with a house fire and a lot of damage done.

Step 2 - Frame the Area

you will also need to frame the area if it is a wide open space so that the foam insulation has something to attach to and mold around. It not only needs to have a frame to keep the shape, but also as a barrier to make sure that it doesn't continue moving into unwanted areas. You can build a frame using wooden boards or you can buy pre-made frames. Either way, they should be about 2 feet apart from each other so that there isn't too much room in between them.

Step 3 - Measuring and Getting Materials

Now that you have framed the area you will want to use a measuring tape to get the measurements. This is necessary so that you can get enough materials for the area. You will be able to buy the spray depending on the square footage of the area that needs to be sprayed, so with that number in mind you will want to go to a hardware store to get the foam insulation.

Step 4 - Spray the Area

Now, you can spray the area that needs to be insulated. You want to take this process slowly as it will fill up and expand very quickly. Start in the bottom corner and work your way across then upwards. You will see it filling in and you want to try to keep it in the frame, although some will move out which is okay. Once you have filled the frame you can move onto the next and so on. After it has settled in, you can go through and spray any holes that you may see. Let this dry before touching it.

During this project do not forget to keep safety gloves and glasses on at all times to protect yourself.