10 Frequently asked questions

1. How much does spray Foam Insulation cost?

Spray foam insulation pays for itself from the day it is installed. In the summer in Texas, many homes have air conditioners running around the clock. When this is happening, something is wrong. A foam insulated house is cool and energy efficient, resulting in dramatically lower monthly utility bills. They more than offset the cost of our foam insulation, while allowing you to remain cool and comfortable.

2. What makes Foam Insulation so effective?

Foam insulation is applied as a liquid and expands 100 times its original liquid size in seconds. As it expands, it conforms and fills each tiny gap and minute opening to create a sealed thermal envelope. This creates a barrier wall against wind and a safeguard against leakage (leakage is the number one source of energy loss in a structure). Foam insulation does not not sag, settle or disintegrate -ever! This product makes a quantum leap over conventional insulation.

3. What is the R-Value of spray Foam Insulation per square inch?

The R-value of BioBased 501 is 3.83/inch. BioBased 1701 has and R-value of 5.5/inch. However, R-Value is not a rating system I am impressed with as it does not take into consideration actual conditions. Spray foam will greatly out-perform any fiberglass insulation largely due to leakage and reaching steady state so fast. Spray foam insulation stops leakage and never reaches steady state..

4. Does Foam Insulation give off harmful particles into the air or pose other risks for the occupants?

No. Unlike traditional insulation (fibrous cellulose & fiber glass), Foam Insulation is not fiber based. It contains no harmful particulates that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Improved air quality and health benefits from controlled ventilation are major reasons many customers choose spray foam insulation.

5. How long does it take to Spray Foam to dry?

BioBased 501 (open cell foam) will dry in approximately 17 seconds as it expands to 100 times its liquid volume. BioBased 1701 will dry in approximately 2 minutes and expands to 60 times its liquid volume. This does not slow down construction. In fact, it is often faster to have spray foam insulation installed.

6. Does Foam Insulation support bacteria or fungal growth or attract bugs, insects or rodents?

No. Although BioBased Insulation is made from renewable soybeans, the foam is a soy-based polyurethane. It gives no sustenance or shelter to insects, bugs, or rodents and provides no food source for mold or bacteria growth. It is inert. This is the product of choice for a clean, healthy building. No spray foam insulation attracts insects, bugs, rodents, or mold and bacteria growth.

7. Does BioTex Foam guarantee their work?

Yes. BioTex Foam guarantees their work, and BioBased Insulation guarantees the product to last as long as you have your house.

8. Can I install foam installation myself?

Not unless you have the equipment and training. This requires specific skills such as those of the certified technicians at BioTex Foam. BioTex Foam technicians have been trained and certified by BioBased Insulation. This training along with the latest and most advanced foam insulation equipment qualifies them to professionally install foam into houses and commercial buildings. BioBased foam is not available except to certified installers

9. What happens if the owners want to add an electrical outlet once BioBased Insulation is installed?

BioBased 501 remains soft, allowing a certified electrical contractor to pull a new wire through.

10. In a nutshell, what are the pros and cons of BioBased spray foam insulation?

Pros Cons
Superior insulation provides extreme energy savings.
Slightly more expensive, although monthly utility savings will more than offset any increase in mortgage payments or the equivalent.
Quiet, noise reducing barrier to outside noises.
Ventilation control for improved air quality.
No harmful particles in the building from fiberglass or cellulose.
Made from renewable soybeans.
Fast to install
Increases building's value.
May qualify for rebates, tax credits, tax deductions, low interest loans, special zoning and other financial incentives.
It is the greenest insulation product on the market.  Safe for installers and occupants and uses renewable soybeans.
Completely inert.  Does not attract or provide sustenance for bugs, insects, rodents, mold, or bacteria.
Fire resistant and helps control moisture to protect against rot and decay.
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