Answer: In some cases Explanation: Spray foam insulation can be left exposed in certain locations when the product is specifically approved for that use. In many occupied or accessible areas, building codes require a thermal or ignition barrier over the foam because it can contribute to fire and smoke hazards. Requirements depend on the product, location, and installation. |
| Spire Home Inspection |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Foam insulation can be left exposed and unprotected from fire only in certain areas and circumstances. Requirements vary by jurisdiction. |
| Integra Inspection Services, LLC |
Answer: Never Explanation: By code is has to be covered by something fire resistant. Sheet rock and things like that. You can however use a thermal barrier paint that allows the foam to be left un covered |
| Poly Energy |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: It may not be pleasant to look at. But is not an issue otherwise if it is exposed. |
| Pinkerton Inspection Agency LLC |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Spray foam can be left exposed if it used indoors. spray foam exposed to sunlight will deteriorate in a year or so. |
| Scheidt Home Inspection |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: If used in some place like an attic, exposed spray foam insulation can be left exposed, but not in living areas of the home. |
| Shedhorn Inspection Services, LLC |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: As long as it is closed cell insulation. |
| Reality Property Inspections |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: If UV additive is present. |
| Superior Inspection Services |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Spray foam is a popular form of insulation. If it is in a living area it needs an ignition barrier like 1/2" gypsum/drywall. In an attic it can be left exposed so long as it has a thermal barrier, ie: the ceiling below is 1/2" gypsum/drywall. There are a few brands of spray foam that do not require an ignition barrier. |
| Moran Property Inspections |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Yes in cases such as crawl space, unfinished basement or a garage. |
| Kairos Home Inspections |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: only if UV additive is present |
| Huskey Home Inspection, LLC |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: In attic instalation not exposed to sunlight |
| Millyard Home Inspection |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In most cases Explanation: Spray in foam in most cases should be covered. The foam is not fire rated and can lead to any fire in the home spreading quickly. |
| Look First Homes, LLC |
Answer: Never Explanation: Spray foam insulation left exposed to the sun usually will break down and deteriorate. Any spray foam left exposed should at the least be covered by paint. |
| Morrow Inspection Services, PLLC |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Depends on the manufacturers directions. |
| Best Choice Inspections |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Spray foam insulation which is not protected from direct exposure to sunlight will deteriorate. |
| J. Michael Simon, LLC |
Answer: Never Explanation: Spray foam insulation exposed to sunlight will deteriorate. |
| Rightway Residential Home Inspections |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: Most types of spray foam insulation are not designed to be exposed to sunlight or other elements, as the material may break down prematurely. |
| Nicholas Home Inspection & Maintenance, Inc. |
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| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases Explanation: For indoor applications, Per building code requirements, foam left exposed is required to be covered by a 15 minute thermal barrier in habitable spaces of a structure. For attics and crawl spaces being used for storage the above applies. For unoccupied space or that of which is being used for equipment servicing, the above does not apply.
On an outdoor application, Closed cell foam can be left exposed to the elements, but will need to be painted or covered to prevent UV damage from the sun. |
| NH Roof Consulting & Inspection |
Answer: In most cases Explanation: There are many types of spray foam in use today. Some are for interior use and some exterior. Some newer foams are rated for exposed use. |
| Corley Home Inspections, LLC |
Answer: In most cases Explanation: It can be left exposed in attic space, if used on interior walls then I would cover up with vapor barrier and drywall |
| JKM Home Inspections |