Do you want the best possible insulation package for your downtown building? Closed cell spray foam insulation will provide you the best insulation system for your building; however we only use it on the walls. Spray foam creates such a tight complete seal that it has a tenancy to condense moisture, so we do not use it in the attic or roof space. It is the best insulation package for all your walls. You could even use it between floors if you are looking for added sound insulation.

There are two negative issues that spray foam causes in a downtown building. As I mentioned, the first is condensation. The second is long-term damage to the existing brick or plaster of the wall. We recommend a product called Keene Driwall ™ HBM 075-1 MC.

This product solves both issues for us. It has a moisture draining system and will easily attach to the wall. The website shows a video attaching the product after new wall studs have been constructed. I would recommend you install this product prior to any wall construction. I’ve never seen a perfectly square downtown building and don’t expect to. You will want to square up your perimeter wall studs. This means you might have a 1/2” gap between the studs and the existing wall at one corner and a 3” gap at the other corner. You want to apply your spray foam continuously across the wall to cover all potential air infiltration along the entire wall. This includes behind the studs, so you want to make sure the Keene product covers all masonry.

You will need to apply the proper depth of spray foam to reach a code-compliant R value in the wall. You should be able to rely on your installer for the correct amount. We also have an article specifically related to R values across the nation which will help, too.

There is a big difference between open cell and closed cell spray insulation. I am highly recommending the closed cell.