Spray foam & crawl space FAQs

Frequently asked questions

How much does spray foam insulation cost in Chattanooga?

In Chattanooga, open-cell spray foam runs $1.50 to $2.25 per board foot and closed-cell runs $2.25 to $3.50 per board foot. For a typical 2,000 sq ft home, converting an attic roofline to closed-cell foam costs $5,000 to $9,500 turnkey before energy tax credits.

What's the difference between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam?

Open-cell averages R-3.7 per inch, stays vapor-permeable, and works well for interior sound dampening and air sealing. Closed-cell averages R-6.7 per inch, acts as a Class II vapor retarder, and belongs wherever moisture poses risks: unvented rooflines, rim joists, metal buildings, and crawl space walls.

Should I seal my attic or just add more insulation?

If your ductwork or HVAC equipment sits in the attic, sealing the roofline with spray foam and conditioning the attic brings that equipment inside the thermal envelope. If the attic is empty and vented, air-sealing the ceiling plane and blowing fiberglass or cellulose to R-49 is the most cost-effective upgrade.

Should I encapsulate my crawl space or insulate under the floors?

In humid IECC Zone 4A, encapsulation wins over subfloor fiberglass batts. Floor insulation alone leaves a damp, vented crawl space that pushes humidity into the living space and wets the subfloor. Encapsulation seals the ground and foundation walls so moisture stops at the source.

Why are my hardwood floors cupping?

Hardwood cupping usually comes from high moisture in the crawl space below. A damp, vented crawl space wets the subfloor from underneath. Encapsulation paired with a crawl space dehumidifier lowers wood moisture content so the boards flatten back out.

Will spray foam stop my metal roof from sweating?

Yes. Applying two inches of closed-cell spray foam directly to the underside of steel roof decking stops roof sweating completely. It seals out humid ambient air and keeps the metal surface above the dew point so condensation cannot form or drip.

How much does spray foam cost for a 40x60 metal shop?

A 40x60 steel shop sprayed with 2 inches of closed-cell foam on the walls and roof deck typically runs from the mid-four figures to low-five figures depending on eave height, framing profile, and roof pitch. A site measurement gives you a firm price.

Can you spray foam over existing attic insulation?

Only if the existing material is dry, clean, and uncompressed. For roofline conversions or damp attics, crews vacuum out old fiberglass or cellulose first so the new foam bonds directly to clean sheathing and framing.

When should old attic insulation be removed before upgrading?

Remove old insulation whenever it is wet, compacted, moldy, pest-contaminated, or smoke-damaged, or when converting to a sealed conditioned roofline. Clean, dry, uncompressed fiberglass or cellulose on a vented attic floor can usually remain safely in place.

Why is the bonus room over my garage always hot?

A bonus room over a garage sits between an unconditioned garage below and hot attic knee-walls above. Leaky framing gaps let summer heat penetrate the floor system. Closed-cell spray foam applied to the garage ceiling deck and knee-walls creates a continuous thermal and air barrier break.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes. On-site thermal measurements and detailed estimates are completely free across Hamilton County and North Georgia. A certified specialist inspects your property, recommends open-cell or closed-cell foam for your assembly, and provides a locked written quote.

What areas do you serve?

We serve Chattanooga, Hamilton County, Bradley County, and nearby North Georgia across 16 communities, including East Brainerd, Ooltewah, Hixson, Signal Mountain, Lookout Mountain, Soddy-Daisy, Harrison, Red Bank, Collegedale, Apison, Cleveland, East Ridge, Ringgold, Fort Oglethorpe, and Dalton.

How long does spray foam last?

Properly installed spray polyurethane foam lasts over thirty years without settling, sagging, or degrading in thermal performance. Unlike fiberglass batts or blown cellulose that compress over time, rigid closed-cell and open-cell foam maintain their dimensional stability and continuous air barrier for decades.

Is spray foam safe for my family and pets?

Yes, once cured within 24 hours. During active application, certified technicians wear full fresh-air PPE and ventilate the building under negative pressure. After the chemical reaction completes and cures, spray polyurethane foam becomes a completely non-toxic, inert solid that emits zero VOCs.