HFO-blown spray foam to prevent air leakage, improve waterproofing

Conclusion

HFO-blown spray foam’s ability to function as an air barrier, waterproofing solution, and high-performing insulation material sets it apart from other traditional options. The material’s low ecological impact, unmatched versatility, and numerous additional benefits further solidify its position as a comprehensive, cost-effective solution for modern building design.

By incorporating HFO-blown spray foam insulation into projects, building professionals can not only enhance the energy efficiency and durability of their buildings, but also provide clients with an environmentally responsible choice that contributes to a more sustainable built environment.

As building codes and green building certifications become more stringent, the adoption of HFO-blown spray foam insulation will likely increase. In Canada, for example, the federal government signed the Canadian Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act into law in June 2021, which represents Canada’s commitment to a 40 to 45 per cent reduction in GHG emissions by 2030, and net-zero GHG emissions by 2050.

Choosing building materials that possess lower GWP has numerous benefits, such as energy efficiency, air sealing, waterproofing, and structural integrity improvements, and racking strength—all making it an attractive option for professionals looking to deliver long-lasting, high-quality building solutions to their clients. It is also important to note that spray foam insulation’s lower GWP is determined only in relation to its function as insulation. This means the GWP of the air barrier and waterproofing solution that would have to accompany other forms of insulation is absent in a building insulation with spray foam, further reducing the environmental impact.

It is essential for building engineers and architects to stay informed about advancements in insulation technology, such as HFO-blown spray foam insulation, to create innovative, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient building designs. As HFO-blown spray foam insulation continues to gain popularity in the building industry, this versatile, high-performance material will play a significant role in shaping the future of sustainable and energy-efficient building solutions.

Notes

¹ Read the report, “HFO- and HFC-based Spray Foam Compared to Water-blown Systems,” polimaris.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/honeywell-blowing-agents-spray-vs-water-blown-systems-brochure.pdf.

² Learn more about different types of insulation by visiting, www.energy.gov/energysaver/types-insulation.

³ Read about air barriers, www.energy.gov/energysaver/air-sealing-new-home-construction.

⁴ Learn more about this retrofit case study,
www.buildingscience.com/project/brookline-ma-three-story-victorian-partial-deep-energy-retrofit-case-study.

⁵ See the Baie-Saint-Paul hospital, www.pomerleau.ca/en/project/baie-saint-paul-hospital.

⁵ Visit to learn more about this moisture-controlled facility, www.patatesdolbec.com.

Author

Maxime Duzyk is the global director of building science and engineering with Huntsman Building Solutions. He holds a background in architecture and has been in the spray foam insulation business for the last 13 years. Duzyk is involved with different building envelope committees and associations in North America such as CSC, SFC, SPFA, CCMC and ULC Standards.