Spray foam insulation has gained popularity in the UK for its effectiveness in providing thermal insulation and reducing energy bills. However, the installation of spray foam insulation can come with several problems that property owners should be aware of. This blog post will explore the potential issues and considerations when opting for spray foam insulation in your home.

Spray foam insulation (SFI) is a modern solution for insulating homes, and its application to timber sloped roofs in dwellings has been a subject of study and discussion for some time now. A recent report compiled/published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in the UK has shed light on the risks associated with this type of insulation.  SFI can be complicated to understand, so you should refer to the full guidance for details which you can read here: CLICK HERE.

Whilst insulation of a property can be beneficial, there can also be some serious risks associated with not ensuring compliance with the HSE guidance, we touch on these below.

Some Pro’s

1. Energy EfficiencySFI provides can provide excellent thermal insulation, which can significantly reduce heating costs and in particular in a property without insulation or where that insulation is not compliant with modern insulation standards.
2. Sealing PropertiesSFI can create an airtight seal, preventing drafts and energy loss through the roof coverings which can be particularly noticeable in older roofs that may not have a secondary moisture barrier or other lining beneath the coverings.
3. Structural SupportSFI can add rigidity to the roof structure as it forms a relatively solid coating that binds together different elements of the roof structure. However it should not be used for this particular purpose as it’s not something which it was designed or even possibly installed to do.

Some Con’s

1. Moisture RiskIf not applied correctly, i.e. in accordance with HSE guidance/best practice say, then SFI can trap moisture between the insulation and external elements. This can lead to serious timber decay over time and potentially affect the structural integrity of the roof itself.
2. Mortgage and Sales ImpactSome mortgage lenders view SFI negatively due to the potential for concealed moisture problems, difficultly in establishing whether the material was installed correctly and/or due to public perception which is being partly fuelled by negative press reports. These factors, which can affect the mortgageability and resale potential or even the value of the property, can have a serious impact.
3. Difficult to Remove 

   Once applied, SFI is challenging to remove, which can complicate repairs and renovations.  Reports from Vendors have indicated that removal of the SFI may involve total removal of the existing coverings, possibly also timbers, and replacement.  This can be very expensive.

4. Health Concerns 

   SFI is a chemically driven process, i.e. the material includes various chemicals that may in some cases and with some people, including during any ‘curing’ phase, impact the health of certain groups.  This is beyond the scope of our expertise, so if you have any concerns in respect of potential risks, you should consult a medical professional or otherwise before agreeing to install any such material into your home.

—————————————————————–

The HSE report highlights that risks are low when an open-cell, moisture-permeable insulant is applied following the guidance described in British Standard BS 5250:2021. However, the highest risk occurs when SFI is applied directly onto the roof covering, leading to high risks under all modelled scenarios. It’s worth noting that even when applied correctly, the fact that there is SFI applied beneath coverings has potential to increase risk of moisture damage e.g. if coverings leak and moisture becomes trapped as a result, timber decay can relatively quickly occur.

In conclusion, while SFI can offer some benefits for insulating timber sloped roofs, it is crucial to consider the potential consequences of such installations, especially regarding moisture risk and the impact on property value and/or saleability.

Homeowners and builders should adhere strictly to the guidelines to help mitigate these risks.  However, unless the works are managed by an Independent Professional who has sufficient experience and expertise in the installation of such materials, then the risk of poor workmanship or non-adherence to guidelines, is higher.

—————————————————————

If you are considering spray foam insulation for your home, take the time to consult with experts, conduct thorough research, and weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision.  Like all things, you should ensure you obtain specific advice from a suitably qualified Professional before making any property related decisions, the information in this article being provided for guidance purposes only.

If you are concerned about Spray Foam Insulation (SFI) that has been installed and are considering making a claim against the installers or indeed a Surveyor who didn’t point out the risks to you sufficiently, then please contact us for a FREE NO OBLIGATION discussion.  We may be able to assist you!