23rd January 2020

CosyInsulation – Airtight & Breathable

One term does not contradict the other. Airtightness and breathability are two entirely separate statements.

Airtight means it does not allow air to escape or pass through – our spray foam does not allow the passing movement of air, it can also be sprayed into all the hard to reach spaces, leaving no air gaps, therefore it reduces heat loss and improves energy efficiency.

Breathable means that the foam allows moisture vapour to pass through it. Therefore, there are no issues with trapped moisture, condensation or dry rot.

A roof does not require air flow – air flow was designed for conventional insulation as they were not breathable. Hot air met the cold surface of the felt or tiles and caused condensation to form. In order for this water to disperse it required an air flow to dry it out. A breathable foam adhered directly to felt means that the felt is no longer a cold surface. The dew point has been moved to the outside of the roof so the condensation forms above the felt rather than the inside. Because condensation is not forming there is no need for air to dry it out. This has went through vigorous testing by the BBA for every weather condition.

We get lots of queries regarding the application of our spray foam insulation

Here are some common Q&As.

I've been told I need a gap of 50mm above the insulation for building control. How can you spray directly onto the felt?

Most buildings contain air that is more humid than the air outside of that building. When the moisture is confronted with a relatively cold and impermeable layer such as the roof felt it may condense.

The traditional way of avoiding the risk of this condensation in roofs, is to ventilate the moisture away, by introducing airflow directly above the insulation layer and below the sarking felt by leaving a 50mm gap. However, as the Synthesia Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation is breathable it will allow this process to happen without the need for an additional airgap. Therefore, our spray foam insulation can be sprayed directly to the rafters and felt. This is BBA and building control approved.

Does this product come with building control approval?

Yes, we provide certificates for building regulations.

Does it release bad fumes into your home?

Our insulation is 100% water blown and contains no harmful CFC’s or toxins. Our team wear protective clothing and masks whilst installing the spray foam mainly to keep over spray off their clothes and off hair and face. There is no risk to our customers or the air quality of their home. In fact, proper insulation may help to improve air quality in your home by combating issues such as condensation and mould.

Will spray foam insulation rot my timbers?

Our open cell spray foam is breathable. As the timber can breathe no moisture is trapped it will not lead to damp or rot.

What happens when the rafters swell or shrink throughout the year?

The open cell insulation is flexible and will move with the timbers without breaking the seal.

Does it make it more difficult to spot potential roof leakages once it’s installed?

The open cell is not waterproof so if there is a leak in the roof the water will drip through at the spot of leak.

Is it safe from bacterial and fungal growth?

Yes, Synthesia Spray Foam insulation will not grow fungus or bacteria or attract any rodents or pests.

How long is your lifetime guarantee?

Our lifetime warranty lasts 25 years. This is the longest warranty that can be issued in the UK. This warranty is provided by the manufacturer Synthesia.

If you have any other questions regarding our insulation or would like a quote just give us a call on (028) 9447 7470 or fill out a form on our website.

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