[May 19, 2013] Tulsa World, Okla., Action Line column Tweet May 19, 2013 (Tulsa World - McClatchy-Tribune Information Services via COMTEX) -- Dear Action Line: As spray polyurethane foam helps homeowners qualify for energy saving tax credits and rebates, what are its attributes and applications -- M.K., Tulsa. "Spray polyurethane foam insulation provides many benefits, including lower energy costs and a continuous seal that improves comfort by reducing air infiltration," said Peter Davis, head of the Spray Foam Coalition ( tulsaworld.com/sprayfoamcoalition). SPF is a rigid foam plastic that can be used for insulation in walls and attics and on roofs. It air seals around walls, roofs, corners and on other contoured surfaces. Using SPF insulation makes your home or building more comfortable by preventing drafts and helps better control indoor temperature, Davis said. The insulation resists heat transfer extremely well, helping keep the home cool during summer and warm in winter. R-values for SPF range from R-3.5 to R-7 per inch of thickness, depending on the type. One of SPF's greatest benefits is its air-sealing ability blocking air infiltration without cutting insulation. The higher the R-value, and the greater the resistance to air movement, the higher the thermal performance of the insulation system, said Davis. SPF is most effective at keeping outside air from coming into a house by sealing cracks, seams and joints, meaning less energy is needed to heat and cool the home. It is more than just insulation. It acts as a moisture barrier, preventing condensation and water intrusion. Sealing gaps with SPF provides a barrier against exterior pollen and dust, which is helpful in households sheltering allergy sufferers. SPF minimizes sound transmittal through the air. In some regions of the U.S., homes with low-slope or flat roofs can use high-density SPF as roofing. This provides high protection from heat and water infiltration, strengthens the entire structure to which it is applied and increases building resistance to wind uplift. The EPA says after spray foam is applied and cured, it is considered to be relatively inert, which means the chemicals are finished reacting. When having spray foam installed, talk to your professional contractor about its curing time and safety practices. When having SPF installed, work with a professional contractor who can educate you on the installation process. Homeowners can consider using a certified SPF contractor from the membership directory of the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance ( tulsaworld.com/spraypfa). Its only member in this area is Margaret King, Spray Equipment of Oklahoma, Inc., 4143 S. 88th East Ave., or call 918-663-4436 or email [email protected]. To find available local and state tax credits, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) at tulsaworld.com/dsire Submit Action Line questions by calling 918-699-8888, emailing [email protected] or by mailing them to Tulsa World Action Line, PO Box 1770, Tulsa OK 74102-1770. ___ (c)2013 Tulsa World (Tulsa, Okla.) Visit Tulsa World (Tulsa, Okla.) at www.tulsaworld.com Distributed by MCT Information Services [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ]