Pros and Cons of Icynene Insulation

Icynene insulation, like any other material, has its pros and cons. Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of using Icynene insulation in your home.

Advantages:

1. Energy efficiency: Icynene insulation is known for its excellent thermal performance. It can effectively reduce heat transfer and help you save on energy bills.

2. Air sealing: Icynene insulation forms an airtight barrier, preventing air leakage and improving the overall air quality in your home.

3. Noise reduction: Icynene insulation also acts as a sound barrier, reducing noise transmission between rooms and from the outside.

4. Moisture control: Icynene insulation is hydrophobic, meaning it repels water and prevents moisture buildup, helping to prevent mold and mildew growth.

5. Durability: Icynene insulation is long-lasting and will not sag or settle over time. It maintains its effectiveness for the life of your home.

Disadvantages:

1. Cost: Icynene insulation is relatively more expensive compared to traditional insulation materials.

2. Professional installation required: Icynene insulation should be installed by a trained professional to ensure proper application and adherence to building codes.

Overall, Icynene insulation offers several benefits such as energy efficiency, air sealing, noise reduction, moisture control, and durability. However, it is important to consider the higher cost and the need for professional installation. By weighing these pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether Icynene insulation is the right choice for your home.

Icynene is an eco-friendly spray foam insulation made from water and castor oil. It encapsulates air and acts as the main insulator.

History of Icynene

Icynene insulation, developed in Ontario, Canada by Icynene Inc. in 1986, is now distributed to over 30 countries, including the European Union, Britain, Australia, and North Africa. Icynene Inc. ensures quality insulation application through factory training and certification for all installers. Installing Icynene requires professional assistance and is not available in DIY spray foam insulation kits.

Icynene is environmentally friendly, formulated from water and castor oil. Castor beans, harvested from fast-growing plants, are the source of castor oil. This insulation contains zero toxic chemicals and is made up of up to 99% air.

Icynene is a low-density product applied in thin layers. It can expand up to 100 times its original thickness, filling all cavities, cracks, and gaps while requiring less chemical to apply.

Icynene insulation, specifically spray foam, is highly regarded for its ability to expand into small cracks and gaps. Although open cell foam like Icynene has a lower R-value compared to closed cell foam, its expansion capability compensates by filling gaps more completely.

Pros:

– Icynene is US patent-protected and one of the leading spray foams in the country.

R-value. R-3.6 – R-4.0. Better than fiberglass and cellulose. Up to R-22.0 in 2 x 6 walls.

Not as good as closed cell foam. Air Barrier. Icynene foam remains adhered to framing members, keeping the air barrier intact. Rated as air impermeable by the International Residential Code (IRC).

Breathable. Icynene open cell foam allows framing members to dry out and prevents rot. (It requires a vapor barrier to prevent moisture buildup.)

– Soundproofing: Icynene effectively prevents external airborne noise from entering the home. It can also be applied to interior walls in entertainment rooms, bedrooms, and home theaters (Install drywall on one side and foam the cavities. Once cured, install drywall on the other side).

– Safe: Icynene contains no harmful chemicals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), or off-gassing, making it safe for those with odor sensitivities or allergies.

– Versatile: Icynene adheres to a wide variety of materials, including wood, steel, brick, and concrete, making it suitable for all types of construction.

– Environmentally Friendly: Icynene is made from renewable crops and water, and the installation process is water-blown.

– Warranty: If installed by a certified professional and in accordance with Icynene instructions, the product comes with a lifetime warranty for the building.

Mold and mildew will not grow on Icynene insulation. Icynene insulation does not attract pests. However, improper installation of Icynene foam can lead to a few problems.

One issue is expansion, which can cause the foam to push the drywall off the studs if installed in already drywalled stud cavities. This type of installation requires an experienced installer. Another issue is expansion when applied to open stud, rafter, or truss cavities, which often expands beyond the face of the framing.

To remove the excess foam, it needs to be cut off with a saw and taken to landfills. Additionally, it may take a few days for Icynene foam to finish expanding and curing, which can slow down a project’s progress.

Ventilation: Installing Icynene insulation may seal a building so well that an HVAC system is required for fresh air. Odors: Most Icynene is applied using water as the blowing agent. Occasionally a chemical propellant is used, which can cause an unpleasant odor that lasts a few days until it cures. (The odor is not produced by Icynene but by the blowing agent.)

Moisture. Icynene has good R-value and air barrier properties, but its open cell structure allows water vapor to pass through. Moisture on cold exterior surfaces causes condensation, which degrades insulation value and can lead to rot in framing members. (Icynene is a Class III vapor retarder if over 4 1/4” thick.) Colder climate applications require a vapor barrier like 6 mil poly on the warm side of exterior walls.

DIY. Icynene requires professional installation and is not suitable for DIY projects. The product and equipment are only available to Icynene-certified installers.

Messy. Installing Icynene can be messy as it sticks to almost everything, including floors, windows, clothing, and itself. Make sure the installer takes necessary precautions.