Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions page. Here you’ll find clear, concise answers on spray-foam insulation—how it works, why it’s safe when properly installed, how widely it’s used around the world, and how to protect yourself from unsolicited “removal” cold calls. This site exists purely to inform; we do not provide installation or removal services.
1. What is spray-foam insulation?
Spray-foam insulation is a two-component polyurethane system that expands on application to fill cavities, gaps and crevices. Once cured, it forms a continuous thermal and moisture barrier far more effective than traditional materials like mineral wool.
2. What types of spray-foam are there?
- Open-cell foam
– Low density, vapour-permeable and excellent for acoustic dampening.
– Allows building fabric to “breathe”, reducing condensation risk. - Closed-cell foam
– High density, vapour-tight and provides structural rigidity.
– Delivers a higher R-value per inch (better thermal performance).
3. Which spray-foam is the safest?
Many experts regard water-blown open-cell foam (e.g. Huntsman’s formulation) as the safest option because it:
- Uses water—not hydrofluorocarbons—as its blowing agent (zero ozone-depletion).
- Remains vapour-open, allowing moisture to diffuse naturally.
- Tests to very low VOC standards, with any minor off-gassing cured within hours of installation.
4. How can I tell if my spray foam was installed correctly?
A proper installation always includes:
- On-site moisture readings before and after application, showing values within UK-approved limits.
- Images demonstrating uninterrupted coverage — no cold-bridges.
- A Handover Pack containing BBA/KIWA certificates, Safety Data Sheets, moisture reports and before/after photographs.
If any of these elements are absent, request the documentation or seek independent verification.
5. Can spray foam insulation harm indoor air quality?
No provided that:
- Only water-blown, low-VOC foams are used.
- Installers wear appropriate respiratory protection until the foam has fully cured.
- Adequate ventilation is maintained during and immediately after installation.
6. Why am I receiving cold calls about spray foam removal?
Some rogue companies buy or steal data on homeowners with existing spray foam and:
- Warn of “toxic off-gassing” or “structural failure”.
- Demand expensive removal services often running into thousands of pounds.
- Provide no on-site testing or valid accreditation.
7. How do I verify a removal claim is legitimate?
- Refuse any cold-caller’s phone-only “survey” – genuine assessments require on-site moisture and thermal tests.
- Ask for proof of accreditation: BBA or KIWA product certificates, plus TrustMark, RICS, PCA or RPSA installer IDs.
- Obtain a written report detailing the test results and clear pass/fail recommendation.
8. When is removal of spray foam truly necessary?
Only in very limited cases, such as:
- Independent tests reveal moisture trapped above safe thresholds.
- An unapproved product was originally used.
Even then, full strip-out is rare; partial remediation is more common.
9. How can I protect myself from scams?
- Never agree to work from unsolicited callers.
- Verify credentials via BBA, KIWA and TrustMark directories.
- Download and follow the free Spray Foam Inspection Protocol co-authored by Huntsman Building Solution.
- Report suspicious activity to Action Fraud (https://www.actionfraud.police.uk) or Citizens Advice Consumer Service (0808 223 1133).
10. Where can I find more information or download guides?
- Download our Myth-Busting Guide to Spray Foam
- Get the Spray Foam Inspection Protocol
11. How widely is spray foam insulation used worldwide?
The global spray-foam insulation market was valued at approximately USD 3.02 billion in 2025, with Asia-Pacific accounting for 36.85%, North America for 28.45% and Europe for 19.8% of that market Cognitive Market Research. Major adopters include the United States, Canada and Australia—while demand is growing rapidly in India and China Future Market Insights.
12. Which countries are the biggest users of spray foam insulation?
- North America (USA & Canada): Driven by stringent energy codes and a mature supply chain.
- Europe (UK, Germany, France): Growing emphasis on retrofit energy upgrades.
- Asia-Pacific (China, India, Australia, New Zealand): Rapid urbanisation and green-building initiatives.
Spray foam is also common place in Japan, Scandinavia and the Middle East, thanks to its thermal efficiency and moisture-control properties.
13. How straightforward is it to remove open-cell spray foam, and how much should it cost?
Removing open-cell spray foam needn’t be a major upheaval or cost you thousands of pounds. In most domestic settings it’s a straightforward, day-long job for a small team:
- Simple Tools & Techniques
Operatives typically use an oscillating multi-tool (or similar cutter) and a robust shop vacuum to slice and clear foam in accessible areas. - Two Labourers, One Day
A pair of competent labourers can strip out open-cell foam from a typical loft or cavity in around 6–8 hours— leaving the space ready for replacement insulation or other works. - Reasonable Rates
Hiring two tradespeople for a day, including equipment hire and PPE (respirator, goggles, coveralls), should cost in the low hundreds of pounds – not thousands. - Minimal Mess
With basic dust-containment measures (sheeting, sealed bags for waste) the disruption is limited and easily managed.