Spray Foam Safe for Crawl Space Sub-Floor?

Are you thinking about spray foaming the floor in your crawlspace to improve the comfort of your home and possibly save cash? Many contractors have adopted this technique; however, what are the dangers associated with spray foaming the subfloor?

Spray Foam Traps Moisture

When you apply spray foam to your subfloor, and the moisture of the wood is high, you’ve locked in the wood’s moisture. Because of the sealing capabilities of spray foam, it’s tough to dry the wood after applying it. It is the case for closed or open spray foam. Both excel at capturing moisture.

Spray Foam Traps Mold

Spray foam is not able to eliminate or kill mold. It can encapsulate moisture and mildew, leaving the mold with water and food sources. Similar to water, if mold is present when applying your spray foam, it will also be trapped. With wood as a food source and high humidity levels, there is no process of remediation after the mold gets encased in foam spray without eliminating the foam.

Spray Foam Is Challenging to Remove from Sub-Floor

Certain crawl space encapsulation firms that aren’t aware of the removal process will mask mold with spray foam or paint instead of taking care to address it. The moisture and mold get held in the foam. It may have created the mold after putting down the spray foam but likely intended to cover up the mold.

Your subfloor is in serious trouble if you’ve mistakenly hired an expert. Spray foams and paints can be tough to remove without grinding. Although we are all in love with the soda blasting process, it appears ineffective for removing spray foams. Even if you take most of the foam off, it still leaves a plastic seal in its place. The thin seal is still able to trap moisture and can also hold mold.

When to Use Spray Foam in a Crawl Space

Suppose 613 Spray Foam utilizes spray foam inside the crawl space. In that case, it’s to close significant gaps and stop airflow between the room and the living area. We do not recommend any insulation on the subfloor if the foundation or wall insulation gets installed and the crawl space is enclosed. If you have vented crawl space, then sub-floor insulation is still advised. However, I would recommend Batt insulation instead of spray foam subfloor insulation, as batts can be replaced and removed in the event of need.

Do you require subfloor or foundation insulation to be installed in your home? If yes, call 613 Spray Foam, and we’ll be happy to assist. Tell us via post to info@613sprayfoam.ca or by calling (613) 319-8422 in case you have installed spray foam on your subfloor and how it goes.