One of the most common questions we receive from homeowners is whether spray foam insulation helps to keep pests and rodents out of the house. While the primary goal of spray foam insulation is to improve energy efficiency, it does offer an added benefit: helping to deter unwanted critters from entering your home.
Why Spray Foam Insulation Deters Pests
At Upstate Spray Foam, we use closed-cell spray foam, which, as the name suggests, is a closed-cell product. This type of insulation is incredibly rigid and strong, creating a solid barrier that pests and rodents find difficult to penetrate. Whether applied in crawl spaces, rim joists, or basements, closed-cell spray foam forms a thick, impenetrable layer that pests simply don’t want to deal with.
How Does It Work?
Spray foam insulation creates a tightly sealed barrier that leaves no gaps or spaces for pests to slip through. While some pests might initially attempt to gnaw at the foam, they typically give up because they have no use for it. Unlike other insulation materials like cellulose or blown-in insulation, spray foam doesn’t provide a soft, cozy space for pests to nest in. It’s a poor environment for rodents, which makes it one of the best options for homeowners concerned about pest control.
A Better Alternative to Other Insulation
Products like cellulose or blown-in insulation, though treated with coatings to deter rodents and resist fire, are fluffy and pillow-like. This soft nature makes them an ideal environment for pests to nest in. Even with rodent-resistant treatments, these types of insulation don’t offer the same level of protection as closed-cell spray foam.
If keeping pests and rodents out is a priority for you, spray foam insulation is by far the best choice. The durable, rigid nature of the foam makes it an unwelcome material for critters looking to nest. For homeowners concerned about pest prevention, we highly recommend opting for spray foam over other insulation types.
Want to learn more about how spray foam insulation can protect your home from pests while improving energy efficiency? Contact us today!