In the first part of our series covering Sandra and Justin Larson’s major home renovation project, we gave you a sense for the unusual extent to which they are using salvaged and reclaimed building materials. This week, we stopped by to observe the unique approach they are taking to insulating their renovated home.
The Larsons decided to go with soy based spray foam insulation and are working with Chris Lehmann, owner of SoySolution Sustainable Spray Foam Insulation, to get the job done. In fact, Chris got into this line of business after discussing the cutting-edge green insulation technology with Justin.
Spray foam insulation has been around for years. It is particularly attractive because of its excellent thermal and acoustical properties. Properly applied, it expands to completely fill every space, creating a comfortable, quiet and very energy efficient barrier between the home interior and outside world. For more information about spray foam insulation, check out SprayFoam.com.
Chris sprays insulation manufactured by Green Insulation Technologies, which takes spray foam insulation to a healthier, more sustainable level. It is water-blown, and uses polyols derived from renewable soybeans to replace a portion of petroleum based polyols. As a result, soy based spray foam insulation is an inert VOC-free substance that improves indoor air quality, has no food value for rodents and insects and will not promote growth of mold and mildew. For more on product content and benefits, visit Green Insulation Technologies’ website. If you’ve never seen spray foam insulation being applied, take a look at this quick video of Chris working at the Larson’s place.
Got your own insulation project coming up soon? Here are a few links that will help you get more informed about options and costs:
- U.S. Department of Energy – Energy Savers
- CostHelper Home Insulation Cost
- Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency
Well, there are obviously lots of eco-friendly home projects embedded in the Larson’s home renovation. Look for upcoming posts on installing a solar hot water heater, beetle kill pine flooring and more.
I have been looking into using this product as well.
Great idea! Just began reading your blog a while back and you are really opening my eyes to the idea of “green” thanks!
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I had heard about many different insulation techniques and materials, but have not really heard anyone use soy insulation. Thanks for sharing this information.