Space heating and air conditioning comprise 51% of the total energy consumption in most U.S. homes. If you want to significantly reduce utility costs and control condensation while increasing your home’s structural integrity, spray foam insulation is the way to go. With proper application, spray foam provides year-round thermal protection to your home.
The big question is: should you do it yourself or hire a residential spray foam contractor in Minnesota? Let’s find out by exploring the pros and cons of each option.
DIY Spray Foam Installation
DIY spray foam insulation kits, also known as froth packs, are easy to use. They come in various sizes and consist of a two-component foam system equipped with extra nozzles, spray guns, and hoses.
The Strengths
- DIY spray foam kit is a cost-effective solution for small insulation projects like the crevices around your doors and windows. They’re inexpensive, plus you don’t have to pay the minimum charge for hiring a contractor.
- Spray foam kits are readily available online and at your local home improvement store. If you’re on a tight schedule, you can purchase the product when you have time and conduct the installation at your own pace.
The Drawbacks
- Packaging problems can easily alter the quality of the spray foam. For instance, if the canisters are not sealed properly, the mixture can become ruined. Likewise, if the gun or hose is backed up, it may also ruin the rest of the product.
- DIY spray foams should be applied quickly, as a pause longer than 30 seconds can cause the nozzle to clog. When this happens, change the nozzle within 30 seconds, or the clog will spread to the hose and tanks.
- Spray foams are sticky, and inexperienced homeowners may have a difficult time using the product. They can also be difficult to remove once cured so the application should be done right the first time.
Professional Spray Foam Installation
Hiring a professional spray foam contractor is a big investment, so you should weigh the pros and cons before going for this option.
The Strengths
- Professional spray foam installers have the equipment for projects of all sizes, whereas DIY kits can only be used for small spray foam jobs.
- Most insulation contractors have years of experience, meaning they can do the job seamlessly and efficiently. You’ll be able to enjoy your insulated space faster than if you do the job yourself.
- Licensed contractors offer insurance, so if a problem occurs during installation, you don’t have to worry about the costs to repair it.
- An experienced spray foam contractor has mastery over building codes, rebates, and energy-efficiency codes. Also, they can identify potential problems like structural issues and fungal growth that may cause issues with the installation.
The Drawbacks
- Hiring a professional contractor is more expensive than a DIY installation, as long as you don’t misuse and waste any products.
- Finding a trustworthy contractor can be challenging. You’ll have to do extensive research to find one that you can rely on.
The Bottomline
Unless the project is small, such as just windows and doors, hiring a licensed contractor may be more practical. Apart from experience, a professional has the right tools and equipment for installation projects of any scale. It may be costlier than a DIY foam spray kit, but the long-term benefits of hiring a pro make it worth the money.
Minnesota’s Trusted Spray Foam Experts
Experience the full benefits of spray foam by working with the experienced contractors at Lange Spray Foam. Our skilled team of experts has over five years of experience providing top-notch spray foam insulation services that bring long-term value to Minnesota homeowners. When you work with us, you’ll get a fast and seamless installation at affordable rates.
Reduce your energy costs today by investing in quality spray foam insulation. Reach out to us to request an estimate.