Moisture, Mold, and Mayhem
2. The Mold Factor
One of the biggest concerns banks have about spray foam insulation is the potential for moisture issues. Now, before you start picturing your walls dripping with water, let’s clarify: properly installed spray foam is designed to prevent moisture problems. But that’s the key word: properly. If the installation isn’t done right, it can create a situation where moisture gets trapped inside the walls, leading to mold growth. And nobody wants a moldy investment, especially not a bank.
Think of it like this: spray foam is incredibly effective at sealing air leaks. That’s one of its biggest selling points! But if there’s already moisture inside the wall cavity, or if moisture can get in from the outside (through leaky roofs, for example), the spray foam can trap it there, creating a perfect breeding ground for mold. It’s like building a cozy little sauna for fungi inside your walls. Not exactly the kind of ambience you want for your home.
This is where the “breathability” of walls comes into play. Traditional insulation allows some level of airflow, which helps to dry out any moisture that might accumulate. But spray foam, particularly closed-cell spray foam, creates a very tight seal, which can prevent that natural drying process from happening. It is why banks not like spray foam insulation if the building inspector are not properly trained on the material to begin with.
And remember, mold isn’t just an aesthetic problem. It can cause health issues, damage the structure of the house, and significantly decrease its value. That’s why banks are extra cautious when they see spray foam, especially if there’s any indication that the installation wasn’t done perfectly. They’re not just being picky; they’re trying to protect their investment (and yours!).