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Building a Home

builder nixes foamed attic

16 years ago

Met with a potential builder yesterday and discussed the possibility of spray foaming under the roof and rafters, in an unvented attic.

He was very against it as he claimed that should the roof leak there would be nowhere for the water to go but into the foam, rendering it useless as insulation.

I made the point that if 'ice and water barrier' were used plus proper flashing there shouldn't be a problem, but he was not convinced. We are wanting the closed cell, polyurethene type.

Does he have a valid point? Thanks!

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Comments (3)

carterinms
16 years ago
I have heard a slightly different variation - that the closed cell foam is impenetrable and that you wouldn't know you have a roof leak, thus risking that your roof sheathing will rot over time. We are planning to use the open cell foam.
emilynewhome
Original Author
16 years ago
This link advises against open cell for roofs

http://dnr.louisiana.gov/sec/EXECDIV/TECHASMT/faqs/faqs_insulation.htm
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mightyanvil
16 years ago
Closed cell should not be a problem in an unvented roof and dense pack cellulose shouldn't either although it makes me uncomfortable to use cellulose in that way. If you are worried about roof leaks use ice & water shield over the entire roof; it's cheap insurance.

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