Closed-cell spray foam in your attic or rim joists does not need a lot of upkeep. Most people think once closed-cell spray foam is sprayed, you can forget about it forever. For the most part, they are right because closed-cell spray foam is very tough. But out here in Box Elder, SD, where we deal with wild temperature swings from freezing winter lows to scorching summer afternoons, checking on your Insulation every now and then saves you from nasty surprises.
What Regular Maintenance Looks Like
You do not need fancy gear or a degree in building science to keep an eye on your Insulation. Twice a year, usually when you are switching out your HVAC filters or cleaning up the garage, take a flashlight and do a quick walk-through of your accessible insulated areas.
- Look for any signs of physical damage or shrinkage along structural framing.
- Check areas near roof penetrations or plumbing vents for any unexpected water staining.
- Make sure nobody has stored sharp objects against exposed foam in the basement or utility room.
If you live closer to the open plains where the wind really howls and drives snow against siding, pay special attention to exterior-facing rim joists during your seasonal checks.
Warning Signs of Potential Problems
Closed-cell spray foam acts as a fantastic air barrier and moisture stopper, but issues can still pop up if something else in the house goes wrong. Homeowners will want to act fast if anything out of the ordinary is spotted.
Discoloration or a damp feel on the surface of the foam usually means you have got a roof leak or a plumbing drip hiding nearby. The Insulation will not rot like fiberglass, but water can travel behind it and rot your framing wood without you noticing. If you smell a musty odor or catch a whiff of mold, do not ignore it. Also, keep an eye out for any cracking or pulling away from the studs, which can happen if the framing lumber shifts significantly during our heavy South Dakota freeze-thaw cycles.
When to Call a Professional
Most maintenance is simple observation, but certain situations call for an expert set of eyes. If you discover a large area of foam that has pulled away from the substrate, or if you find hidden moisture trapped behind the layer, call Majestic Insulation Company. Majestic Insulation Company can figure out if you have got a roof leak, a ventilation failure, or an Insulation installation flaw that needs correcting before it damages your home structure. Trying to patch large structural gaps with canned foam from the hardware store will not cut it for long-term durability in the Box Elder, SD climate.