Spray Foam Insulation: A type of insulation material that is applied as a liquid and expands into a foam to fill cavities and create an effective thermal barrier.

 

Closed-Cell Spray Foam: A type of spray foam insulation that is composed of cells that are completely sealed off from one another, providing a higher R-value and increased moisture resistance.

 

Open-Cell Spray Foam: A type of spray foam insulation with open, interconnected cells, offering a lower R-value compared to closed-cell foam but excellent sound dampening properties.

 

R-Value: A measure of thermal resistance, indicating an insulation material's ability to resist the flow of heat. Higher R-values signify better insulation.

 

Curing: The process during which the liquid spray foam transforms into a solid foam by chemical reactions and expansion.

 

Substrate: The surface or material to which spray foam insulation is applied, such as walls, roofs, or floors.

 

Expansion Ratio: The degree to which spray foam expands from its liquid form after application. This ratio varies depending on the type and brand of spray foam.

 

Flash and Batt Insulation: A hybrid insulation method involving the application of a thin layer of spray foam followed by traditional batt insulation.

 

Spray Foam Rig: A specialized vehicle or trailer equipped with the necessary machinery and materials for on-site spray foam application.

 

Thermal Barrier: A material or layer that prevents the passage of heat, often required to cover spray foam in occupied spaces to enhance fire safety.

 

Ignition Barrier: A material that prevents the ignition of spray foam insulation and is required in specific applications to meet building codes.

 

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Systems that control temperature, humidity, and air quality within a building, often affected by spray foam insulation in terms of efficiency.

 

Vapor Barrier: A material that prevents the movement of water vapor through walls or ceilings, often used in conjunction with insulation to manage moisture.

 

Air Barrier: A material that stops the flow of air through a building's envelope, preventing drafts and improving energy efficiency.

 

HFO (Hydrofluoroolefin): A newer, more environmentally friendly blowing agent used in some spray foams, replacing older, high-global-warming-potential agents.

 

Blowing Agent: A substance added to spray foam to create bubbles or cells and aid in its expansion.

Adhesion Promoter: A substance applied to the substrate before spray foam to enhance adhesion and prevent delamination.

 

Density: The mass or weight of spray foam per unit volume, often measured in pounds per cubic foot (lb/ft³).

 

Cavity Wall Insulation: The application of spray foam within the empty spaces or cavities between interior and exterior walls to improve thermal performance.

 

Fire Retardant: A substance added to spray foam to reduce its flammability and increase its fire resistance.

 

Thermal Drift: A term used to describe the potential reduction in R-value over time as a result of gas loss within the cells of the foam.