Nov 5 2008
Fluffy pink rolls of fiberglass. For years, it was the first thing that came to mind when we thought of insulation in walls and attics.
Today, green is the new pink.
More and more, eco-friendly foam insulation -- which can lower heating and cooling costs up to 50 percent -- is catching homeowners' attention. And it's no wonder. In addition to being better for the environment, foam insulation is proving to be a superior insulator.
"There is an alternative to the pink stuff," says Steve Davis, president of EnergyOne of the Carolinas. "I tell people, 'Forget pink ... go green!'"
Foam insulation is sprayed as a liquid into attics, crawlspaces, wall cavities and other spaces in the home. Within seconds, it expands up to 120 times in volume, instantly filling every nook and cranny to provide an airtight seal.
Spray-in foam offers improved air quality and fewer moisture-related problems. Plus, it lasts significantly longer than pink fiberglass insulation, which tends to break down over time. But what has homeowners most excited as winter approaches is the energy savings.
- The U.S. Department of Energy predicts the cost of heating oil to increase 30 percent over last winter, which could cost the average household an extra $585.
- The average home spends $1,300/year on energy utility costs, according to the Department of Energy.
- Foam insulation can cut heating and cooling costs up to 50 percent by reducing or eliminating air leakage.
- A major benefit of foam is that you'll be able to use smaller, more efficient heating and AC units in your home," Davis says.
In addition to lower energy costs, foam insulation improves air quality by creating an airtight moisture barrier that reduces mold and mildew risks, Davis says.
EnergyOne of the Carolinas offers homeowners a choice of foam insulation product, including options made with renewable resources, soy, and recycled plastics.
Information on foam insulation is available at http://www.demilecusa.com.