Energy Savings and Handi-Foam Spray Foam
April 2007 - Handi-Foam two-component polyurethane spray foam was used on the basement rim joist of a 2,400 ft2 newly constructed home in Kansas, and the home was tested to verify the energy savings and the reduction of uncontrolled air infiltration. The results of this "case study" showed that a reduction in annual infiltration rate estimated at 11.4% was achieved in the house simply by applying Handi-Foam spray foam in the rim joist locations. This reduction in air infiltration translates to an estimated annual cost savings of approximately 19.3% for heating and cooling, according to Hathmore Technologies, the certified HERS energy rater that performed the testing (Test File: 031907 "FOMO TEST").
The dramatic decrease in uncontrolled air infiltration that can be achieved with Handi-Foam was verified through the use of a "blower door" test, which is an EPA Energy Star recognized diagnostic method for measuring airtightness, and performed by a certified third-party home energy rater accredited by the U.S. Government. In this case study, the home was first tested with standard fiberglass insulation in the rim joist areas. After this initial blower door test was performed, Handi-Foam two-component spray foam was applied in these rim joist areas at an average thickness of 3" (the cantilever floor bays were sealed by a "skim coat", approximately 1", of Handi-Foam). The results, as described above, verify the reduction in unwanted air infiltration, which is equivalent to eliminating 36.8 in2 of holes in the building envelope!
Handi-Foam one component polyurethane foam sealants and two-component spray foam systems may be used in a variety of locations throughout the building enclosure to help stop air infiltration, leading to energy savings. In addition, Handi-Seal Window and Door Sealant is the only patented low-pressure, closed-cell polyurethane foam sealant for use specifically around windows, doors and skylights.
Special thanks for their work on this case study go to Hathmore Technologies, LLC in Blue Springs, Missouri, and to Todd Betlejewski from Betlejewski Sales, Inc., Saint Louis, MO., 800-272-0274.
This information is provided as a service, and is not necessarily meant to reflect any recommendation, guildeline or position of Fomo Products, Inc. Each individual user must determine product suitability for any particular purpose.
