Most people associate air sealing with preventing the loss of hot or cool air. While this is important and can save you money, it has another benefit: Air sealing can also help with moisture control and prevent damage from mold. 

Moisture is primarily transferred through the air, so sealing any gaps or holes is essential to protect your home. One of the most effective ways to do this is to install insulation. 

Understanding Moisture Control 

Before you can solve a problem, you need to understand how it works. In this case, you should learn how moisture moves in and out of your house. Moisture travels through air currents, diffuses through materials, and is transferred through heat. 

Typically, air moves from high- to low-pressure areas via the easiest route. This route is most likely a hole or crack in your home, which is why inspecting your home regularly for interior and exterior cracks is crucial. Air sealing these areas will prevent air movement and help control moisture in your home. 

Risks of High Moisture Levels in Your Home 

If your home has excess moisture, you need to address it. Ignoring a moisture problem could lead to the following issues: 

  • Excess indoor air pollutants
  • Growth of mold and mildew
  • Increased utility bills 

You can prevent these issues and control the moisture in your home by air sealing with spray foam insulation. 

What Is Spray Insulation? 

Spray foam insulation acts as an air barrier and can seal walls, floors, and ceilings to protect against moisture carried through the air. It is often used in spaces around electrical outlets and light fixtures and where walls intersect with windows or doors. 

This insulation can also be sprayed into open areas, like attics and crawl spaces. Spray foam insulation can be used in any space with easy access. It never loses shape, and it expands to fill cracks, gaps, and crevices during installation. Furthermore, it does not compress or settle with age.

How Spray Insulation Helps with Moisture Control 

Installing spray insulation creates an airtight barrier that your home may have been missing. Without an airtight barrier, moisture can easily move into your home and create problems in warm conditions. 

Your home may feel drier — but not excessively dry — if you properly install insulation. Insulation stops moisture from moving through the air, such as in the basement, and prevents it from rising and spreading throughout your home.

Another way insulation helps with moisture control is by regulating the temperature within your home. Even if you take a hot shower or run the dishwasher, the extra humidity shouldn’t make your home overly hot. Spray foam insulation will protect your home longer than most traditional insulation methods. 

Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for air sealing because of its expansive properties. However, moisture problems are still possible if it is not installed correctly.

Use Professional Services to Install Insulation 

There are many websites and videos online dedicated to DIY spray foam insulation. However, hiring a professional provides a few advantages you may not have thought about. 

Professionals install spray foam insulation almost every day. This means they have the expertise and experience to ensure that it is correctly installed. Experts also know which brands produce the highest quality materials and will recommend the best product for your situation. 

The old material must be removed to install spray insulation and ensure it properly seals. Professionals understand how to safely handle older materials that contain mold, mildew, or asbestos. 

Because professionals are experienced in installing these materials, you’ll have improved energy efficiency. There will be no cracks or gaps left to leak air, making your home more comfortable in every season.