Polyurethane insulation

What Is Polyurethane Insulation?

Polyurethane insulation is an insulation material made from polyurethane-a rigid, low-density foam-that exists in sprayed foam and rigid foam forms. Polyurethane became a widely used industrial material in the late 1950s and was eventually used as an insulation material. Polyurethane is a higher-cost material and weighs significantly more than fiberglass. Likewise, Polyurethane has several safety concerns which have not been fully established or fully regulated.

Although Otto Bayer pioneered Polyurethane in 1937 in Leverkusen, Germany, polyurethane did not become widely used as an industrial material until the mid 1950s, when manufacturers began including it as a material in paint and varnish. It was not until the 1970s, however, that polyurethane's use as an insulation material became popular. Today, Polyurethane is widely used as a in upholstery, plastics, auto parts, and insulation.

Polyurethane insulation exists in two forms: sprayed and rigid foam. Sprayed foams are lower-density materials that insulators may spray into wall cavities; such foams expand rapidly to fill vacant space and provide insulation. Rigid polyurethane insulation is a slightly higher density foam panel that is most easily installed during initial construction or remodeling of a wall.

In most cases, polyurethane insulation costs significantly more than fiberglass. The process for manufacturing polyurethane is significantly more complex and may result in additional costs.

Several significant safety concerns surround the use of Polyurethane. Unlike fiberglass, Polyurethane is a combustible material that will ignite if exposed to fire or significant heat. Likewise, polyurethane compounds may contain hazardous materials or regulated compounds.