Acts of Gratitude

Thank You From Chicago Green Insulation!

It’s November, and we are all making plans to spend time with family and friends (in person or via digital platforms) to express our gratitude. Here at Chicago Green Insulation, we are no different. First, I would like to say thank you to those of you who are reading this; we would not be here without you. Thank you for your business. Thank you for passing our information on to others who have hired us! For those of you we have yet to work with, thank you for your attention in these crazy times.

I started selling spray foam insulation in 2008. Before that, I spent many years in various roles at not-for-profit organizations. I have worked with kids and families receiving services via the New York City Coalition for the Homeless. I have worked with kids struggling with emotional challenges at Ramapo Anchorage Camp (ramapoforchildren.org). I have also worked with individuals on death row and their families during my time with Amnesty International and the Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. In 2013 I realized that doing business and doing good could be done simultaneously!

Chicago Green Insulation is a social enterprise. As a business, we solve an environmental problem by reducing the use of heating and cooling. Spray foam insulation is the best, longest-lasting, most economical product when it comes to insulating your home or business. We use environmentally friendly products. When your home is insulated, it uses less electricity, natural gas, and other resources, which is exceptionally good for the planet. When spraying a whole house, we can reduce energy consumption by 50%!

Beyond that, we play a role in providing economic sustainability in the Chicagoland Area. We do this by hiring previously incarcerated individuals and operating our warehouse on the south side of Chicago in conjunction with cooperation with Sustainable Options for Urban Living.

Hiring Returning Citizens

The reason I believe in hiring “returning citizens” is very personal. You can hear the audio version on my website about the murder of my Godfather Garland McKinney. (https://bit.ly/38hQrrd)

Another reason is because of stories like my cousin Jason Goucher. He was a sweet but troubled young man who suffered from undiagnosed bipolar. As a result, he had made several bad choices in his life. He also paid the consequences of his actions through time served. During his seven-year sentence, “Jason was a model inmate.” Less than a year after being released from prison, he committed suicide. In part, this was due to the hopelessness he felt trying to find a job and getting doors slammed in his face at every turn. Jason would have made an outstanding employee if he had an opportunity to prove himself.

By hiring previously incarcerated individuals we allow them to prove that they are better than the worst day of their life. They have paid their debt to society, and with that, they should be able to return to their rightful place as citizens. They should have the ability to find steady employment so that they can support themselves and their families.

By hiring previously incarcerated individuals we allow them to prove that they are better than the worst day of their life.

Other Endeavors
I find deep satisfaction in working with a variety of non-profit agencies, such as Habitat for Humanity of Lake County, the Obama Foundation, Sustainable Options for Urban Living, Revolution Workshop, Washington Heights Workforce Center, and Lake County Workforce Development Corporation.

This year we added a location in Auburn Gresham on the south side of Chicago with Sustainable Options for Urban Living! Sustainable Options for Urban Living is a cooperative of like-minded trades organizations committed to building a better Chicago by employing and training enthusiastic and hard-working individuals in need of a chance.

I serve as the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce Representative for the Highland Park location of Curts Café. Curts Café helps high school dropouts earn their GED and learn the soft skills necessary for a successful career.

I am also on the advisory board of two organizations. Community Partners for Affordable Housing provides pathways toward homeownership and helps individuals with their existing home and needs that are beyond their means. https://www.cpahousing.org and the Parks District foundation of Highland Park where we provide scholarships to participate in programs at a reduced cost or free. https://www.pfhpil.org

If you can help these organizations or need help from these organizations, please reach out.

Don’t Discount Acts of Gratitude
I am a firm believer that we have a duty in life to not only express our gratitude in words but to do so in acts of kindness. We can not do this on my own and we do not do this on our own. Thank you to all of our customers and a special thank you to my team here at Chicago Green Insulation!

For my employees, It takes a village and I am grateful you are part of our little village!

• William, you are that guy who I originally connected with via Michael Strautmanis at the Obama Foundation. William, your hard work, dedication, and creativity are unmatched!
• Margaret, you came to me via your contacts and a simple Linkedin post that has proven to be true, “The most amazing salesperson I have ever known!” Thank you for your work, your dedication, and willingness to help us grow our sales and processes! Thank you for being the “voice” of reason and responsibility on the phone now that I cannot field all the calls!
• Rafael, you came to us with lots of experience and have proven to be super helpful in so many ways! Thank you!
• Isaiah, your prayers and our prayers were answered at the same time. We are grateful for your move back to Chicago and for bringing your experience and enthusiasm for spray foam. We are grateful for the opportunity to play a role in the realization of your dream to be a homeowner!
• Keon, we are grateful for your hard work and positive attitude. We look forward to you realizing goals on our team.
• Lance, you are the newest member of our team! You come to us from our friends at Freedom from Within (freedomfromwithin.org). Thank you for your humility, your positive attitude, and work ethic!

If you require home insulation services, if you have questions about spray foam insulation, my team stands ready to help you with your project.

As I’ve said before, comfort is only a FOAM CALL AWAY!

This November keeps in mind that there are many spray foam insulation companies you can choose from but when you choose Chicago Green, you express your gratitude by helping others help themselves.

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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Winter is Coming!

5 Things Every Homeowner Needs to Know Before Winter Strikes

As I write this, it’s a nice, comfortable 75 degrees. I love early fall when the heat of summer has ended but old man winter has yet to show his face.

Unfortunately, I know that this weather isn’t going to last and if you’re a native Chicagoan or even if you’ve only moved here a few years ago, you know the saying “Winter is coming!” is no empty threat.

Are you dreading what winter weather does to your home? Are you avoiding the thoughts of those outrageous heating bills like the plague?

There is an easy solution in many cases. If you haven’t considered it before, now would be the perfect time to get your home ready for this upcoming winter by installing spray foam insulation.

Ice Dams, Frozen Pipes, Freezing Rooms

You’ve probably seen those sweet little postcards, especially around the holidays, with beautiful little icicles hanging from the eaves of houses. Such a pretty sight, unless you know what those icicles really mean- an ice dam.

When the snow on the roof of your home begins to melt (and it will melt much faster if there is very little insulation) the thick ridge of ice on the gutters can cause the melting water to become backlogged. It forms a tiny lake, if you will, on the top of your roof!

An ice dam can become so heavy that it can cause your gutters to pull off the house, often time taking the fascia boards with it! If the buildup of water works its way under the shingles, it can cause major damage to the roof itself, the ceiling inside your home, the walls, and even the floors.

Frozen pipes can be anther ugly problem. While these are not usually a problem, when a cold “vortex” moves into the area, houses that are not properly insulated can suffer from frozen pipes. Besides the lack of water, these pipes can burst, causing more damage than you can imagine, especially if the water from the broken pipe runs for hours on end before you discover it.

Last, but certainly not least, are rooms that never seem to warm up. I’m betting you have at least one room in your home that no one wants to use because it is a virtual icebox in the winter months. This is especially common with rooms that sit over a garage. That is a whole lot of wasted space that you could be using if your home were properly insulated.

Avoiding These Problems is as Simple as Spray Foam Insulation

Obviously, no one can control the weather, but there are solutions for preventing ice dams, frozen pipes, and cold rooms.

Yes, you could install electrical deicing cables that prevents water from freezing by gently heating the area on the edge of the roof, but in addition to their original cost, you will pay even more in electricity every single winter when you turn these devices on.

Don’t you pay enough right now for electricity?

How about saving money on your heating and electric bills every single month and have zero problems with ice dams, as well as making every single room in your house comfortable.

Spray foam insulation offers you the largest impact when it comes to saving energy than any other home repair, including replacing the windows.

A properly ventilated and insulated attic space will reduce your winter heating bills, as well as keep every room toasty warm while using less energy.

Spray foam insulation offers you the largest impact when it comes to saving energy than any other home repair, including replacing the windows.

The Many Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam makes a powerful insulator that is unmatched by other types of insulation, including the typical pink fiberglass rolls.

Some of the benefits of spray foam insulation include:

• A permanent moisture barrier that prevents water and air from entering your home
• Prevents mold and mildew growth by preventing moisture
• Increases the structural integrity of the home
• Provides protection from natural elements, including high winds, insects, rodents, and animals
• Reduces the introduction of pollen and allergens into your home

Also, unlike other types of insulating materials, spray foam has an indefinite lifespan. It will not lose its shape, shrink, or degrade. Spray foam insulation will still operate at optimum levels 20 years into the future, something you can’t say about fiberglass or other types of material.

Spray foam insulation is also an earth-friendly choice since it lasts indefinitely. This means no worn-out fiberglass in the landfills and a vast reduction in electricity and other resources. Spray foam insulation is absolutely the greenest form of insulation on the planet!

Don’t Wait!

While spray foam can technically be applied in any season, it is much harder work to accomplish this in the dead of winter.

We can adjust the formula to account for humidity and temperature, but this will still require equipment to heat the foam to be sure it cures sufficiently and in a short amount of time.

The best time to insulate your home with spray foam insulation is before we get hit with some super cold temperatures. Fall is one of my busiest times since many homeowners want to take advantage of the last of the decent weather and not interrupt their holiday plans.

Are you planning on having family over for the holidays? Do you want to have everyone and every room in your house be toasty and warm, with no annoying drafts? Do you want to save a bundle on your heating and energy costs in addition to avoiding those damaging ice dams and frozen pipes?

Don’t wait for old man winter to show up in a full-blown fury! As I always say, comfort is just a FOAM call away!

Call us today with your questions. My team and I will be happy to inspect your home and give you advice on what it would take to make your house warm, comfortable, and safe from the effects of winter weather.

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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In Need of Extra Space?

Chicago Green Insulation is Partnering with SOUL, Sustainable Options for Urban Living, Inc. to provide The SOUL Shack. Whether you are looking to create a home office, space for remote learning, a home gym, a man cave, or she-shed, The SOUL Shack is worth exploring.

LEARN MORE

What it Takes to Have a Successful and Comfortable Accessory Dwelling Unit

Whether your home already has an accessory dwelling unit, such as an art studio or if you are considering building a new guest house, a place for the in-laws, or a place to work on your latest furniture refinishing project, you may not have considered how spray foam insulation could work to your advantage.

Affordable Housing or Easy Living

The old saying of “Buy more land, they aren’t making any more of it” could not be truer. Land and housing prices continue to skyrocket and show no signs of becoming “inexpensive” any time soon.

This trend has caused many to rethink how they are using the property they currently own. When you have outgrown your current home, is it really necessary to sell and purchase a larger home?

Many homeowners in Illinois have decided to remodel an existing outbuilding or construct a new one. Often called an accessory dwelling unit, these buildings can serve a wide variety of purposes.  A “guest house” can be used for the in-laws, which can provide mutually beneficial arrangements with childcare or household chores, as well as keeping the family close together.

Others choose to use this ADU as a rental, which can provide some much-needed income, while others prefer to use this space for personal endeavors, such as art studios or other creative interests.

By leaving the main house in its original state, an ADU can help to keep the character of the existing neighborhood intact.

What does this have to do with spray foam insulation? Glad you asked!

Any Space Used by Humans Will Require Insulation
Well, any space, that is, that is used here in the greater Chicago area and that you would like to use year-round that is!

While not every ADU is going to be the perfect candidate for spray foam insulation, most of them are. If you are considering new construction, be sure to talk with your contractor and ask them if the materials and design will work with spray foam. I would also be happy to talk to you about your new construction plans.

For most ADU’s, keeping the building sealed in the winter to prevent warm air from escaping is a big priority. No one wants to spend any time in an uninsulated or poorly insulated building during a Chicago blizzard. Of course, the opposite is also true. Even if you are planning to use the unit as say an art studio, you will be working in the sweltering heat of the summer if the building is not properly insulated and chances are that you will be avoiding your past time if you can’t do it comfortably.

For most ADU’s, keeping the building sealed in the winter to prevent warm air from escaping is a big priority. No one wants to spend any time in an uninsulated or poorly insulated building during a Chicago blizzard.

Spray Foam and Its Applications
Depending on construction design and the proposed use of the ADU, the following might be required to keep the space energy efficient and comfortable:

1. Roof Insulation
The roof will need not only proper ventilation to prevent condensation, but you also want to prevent unwanted bugs, animals, dirt, and drafts. Spray foam insulation creates an airtight seal that will keep out all those undesirable critters, as well as provide excellent insulation that won’t tap down or wear out.

2. Floor Insulation
While an ADU isn’t usually exactly the same construction, nor it is as large as the main house, depending on the type of construction, insulating underneath the floor can go a long way towards preventing cold from chilling the flooring material.

3. Walls
Adding spray foam insulation to the walls will not only keep the home super cozy in any type of weather, but it will also help to make it more soundproof, keeping noise from the surrounding areas, such as the backyard, muffled.

4. Overall Air Tightness
More than insulation, spray foam will prevent insects, mosquitoes, squirrels, stink bugs, and other unwanted pests from entering through tiny cracks. ADUs are notorious as being homes for unwelcomed guests and spray foam keeps the building completely airtight, preventing even the tiniest creature from finding his way inside.

Fiberglass Insulation
Your ADU may already have some type of existing insulation right now, and if it does, chances are that it’s the pink foam insulation.

You could always add another layer on top of your existing insulation, increasing the R-value, but fiberglass insulation does wear out with age. It compresses down, like a mattress, losing its ability to provide the insulation you are looking for.

Fiberglass insulation does not stop air leaks. It works great as a filter for the drafts, but it does nothing to stop them. Have you ever been in a drafty house during a Chicago winter storm? One thing you can say is that it was probably as uncomfortable as heck.

Rodents and bugs are also very fond of fiberglass. They think fiberglass is one of the best nesting materials around!

Go Spray Foam!
We can remove that pink fiberglass insulation and replace it with airtight, super sealing, super-insulating spray foam.

Spray foam works great in frame walls or concrete structures. It’s the perfect answer for those hard to reach crawl spaces or odd, shaped roofs.

For the highest insulating factor per inch, nothing can touch spray foam insulation. You don’t need a vapor barrier, it insulates around pipes, wires, and electrical outlets.

The SOUL Shack
If you are interested in exploring your options in building an ADU but don’t know where to start, we have great news! Chicago Green Insulation is Partnering with SOUL, Sustainable Options for Urban Living, Inc. to provide The SOUL Shack. The increased need for social distancing has impacted all in terms of needing more space at home. Whether you are looking to create a home office, space for remote learning, a home gym, a man cave, or she-shed, The SOUL Shack is worth exploring.

Have questions about your ADU, wondering if spray foam will work for the construction project you have in mind, or you want to talk about insulating your main home, as I always say, comfort is just a FOAM call away!

Call today and let’s talk about what spray foam insulation can do for your accessory dwelling unit and your home! There’s no obligation and our expert technicians always work with your safety in mind.

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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BUILD; PEACE and QUIET

The comments in the article are referencing construction projects, not simple, inexpensive fixes to your existing home! Foam by itself is not a solution to noise issues. It is a very specialized application with results that can vary. We can fix any home! However, it is a process of deconstruction and reconstruction. Green Brake Box: In addition to the sound deadening you want; you will have the insulation you need for both the freezing Chicago winters and our hot and humid summers.

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How to BUILD; PEACE and QUIET in Your Home

Nearly every homeowner will tell you that they see their home as a refuge from the typical noise and bustle of the office or the streets.

Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Block parties, neighborhood fireworks, kids playing in the street, and even passing traffic and airplanes can make you want to invest in a good set of earplugs.

Noise from the outside isn’t the only problem you might face. If you or someone in your family is a musician, or if you have noisy neighbors, you might be interested in keeping your private life – private! Many homes are within three or four meters of their neighbors’ homes, which means they can hear everything that is said in any tone that is louder than a whisper.

Let’s not forget the kids arguing over whose turn it is to use the Nintendo in the living room while you are trying to get a little work done in your home office.

While you may not be able to cut out 100% of all noise, you can certainly reduce it to a level where you barely notice it. One way to do this is to insulate and soundproof using spray foam insulation.

Sound Deadening using Spray Foam Insulation

If you have ever been outside on a windy day, you may have noticed that you can hear far-away sounds more easily than you do on days when the air is still.
This is because sound travels in the air. When you have gaps or cracks in the windows, doors, or walls, the air and noise can use those to enter the home.
You can get both insulation and sound deadening by filling in those gaps and cracks using spray foam insulation. When you add spray foam insulation between the walls and in the roof, you can deaden the sound so that you hear nothing more than muffled voices.
To deaden the sound between rooms, spray foam is also particularly useful, deadening those annoying noises you might hear from the kids playing video games or the toilet flushing from the guest bathroom.

In addition to the sound deadening you want; you will have the insulation you need for both the freezing Chicago winters and our hot and humid summers.

Vinyl or Fiberglass Sound Barriers VS Spray Foam

When considering which product to use to deaden sound, you may have heard that there are fiberglass and vinyl panels that can be installed under the drywall that work to absorb or block noise.

While it is true, the cost of these panels can be quite high. Not only will you need to remove, and possibly even replace the drywall if it becomes damaged in the process, the drywall panels, install the pricey vinyl or fiberglass units, then reinstall and repair the drywall, but the amount of insulation you receive for all this effort is minimal at best.

While drywall must be removed to install spray foam, it will give you something that vinyl or fiberglass panels cannot. In addition to the sound deadening you want; you will have the insulation you need for both the freezing Chicago winters and our hot and humid summers.

Reduce Flanking Noise

Flanking noise would be the sounds that come from inside the walls, such as from plumbing, built-ins fans or wall heaters, and other such devices. When the upstairs bathroom is located above the living room, for example, you can hear the water rush down the pipes when someone flushes the toilet or uses the shower.

Flanking noises can also be greatly reduced by applying spray foam insulation in between the walls and panels where these items are located. By sealing air gaps, the transmission of airborne sound emanating from inside the walls can be greatly reduced.

Vibrational Noise

Sometimes, it’s not just noise you want to eliminate, but the vibration that accompanies some types of noise. A stairwell that runs alongside one room, for example, might cause the windows and walls to rattle with each footfall.

To deal with this type of problem, simply insulating the walls will not be sufficient. This is when you must rely on a box in box construction.

Using your existing drywall, you add another frame to support another layer of drywall, creating a box inside the room. Spray foam insulation is then put in between these two pieces of drywall. You might also want to add a layer of vinyl or fiberglass soundproofing panels if the noise and vibration are intense.

Spray foam will expand and fill even the tiniest gap before it permanently sets into a hardened substance that will block sound while providing excellent insulation.

Improved Quality of Life

No doubt adding spray foam, as insulation and/or for soundproofing, will offer you an improved quality of life factor.

Paying less for energy to heat and cool your home, while keeping every room at a comfortable temperature is of interest to everyone.

Spray foam insulation is also eco-friendly, reducing the amount of energy you use while remaining good for the environment.

Using spray foam to seal cracks, gaps, and spaces in between walls will also prevent airborne allergens from entering your home, as well as preventing all types of bacteria, rodents, and insects from making your home their home.

Chicago Green Insulation prides itself on helping customers live a more comfortable life that is filled with good health. We offer spray foam for your insulation needs, as well as soundproofing desires.

We are open for business during this coronavirus crisis and my workers will take all necessary precautions for your safety.

My team would be happy to speak with you and talk about how spray foam can make your home a better place for you and your family.

Remember that comfort, and quietness is only a FOAM call away! Why not call us today for a no-obligation appointment? Stop those annoying sounds and at the same time, give yourself all the benefits that spray foam insulation has to offer in the way of energy savings and comfort.

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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Too Hot for Comfort?

How Spray Foam Insulation Can Cool You Down This Summer

It feels like most people only think of insulation during the cold winter months. Perhaps it’s because we are stuck inside our homes and can’t help but notice how cold certain rooms are. Perhaps it’s because, in the summer, we are enjoying the weather and don’t realize that our energy bills could be lower.

Or could it be that I’m receiving more calls now that the weather is warmer because people are more aware of how powerful spray foam insulation is when it comes to sealing out cold air, as well a sealing out warm, muggy air?

Not Only for Your House

The truth is that closed-cell spray foam is excellent for outdoor use as well. Whether you want to seal gaps in the foundation or you want to enjoy your garage but can’t because it’s blistering hot (or freezing cold), spray foam stands up to the elements better than any other product.

Compare spray foam to traditional pink fiberglass insulation and you will find that spray foam stands up to moisture and insects, something fiberglass can never do.

Let’s Talk about the Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation in the Summer

You might know that spray foam insulation will save you tons of money on your energy bill, but not nearly as many people know some of the extreme benefits spray foam can offer, including

• Forming a Protective Barrier against Allergens

For those of you who suffer from spring and summertime allergies, spray foam can be a real blessing. Unlike fiberglass insulation, spray foam encloses your home with an air-tight seal that prevents allergens such as dust, pollen, and pollution from entering your living spaces.

• Tremendous Noise Reduction

Depending on the windows and doors in your home, spray foam can vastly reduce the amount of noise that travels through the exterior or interior walls. Your neighbors are most likely going to enjoy summertime cookouts, evening parties, even block parties, and those street soccer games that the kids like to play. Imagine reducing that noise to the point you hardly notice it? Imagine taking a nap in the afternoon in your comfortably cool living room in almost complete silence. You don’t have to imagine these things if you call to have spray foam insulation installed!

Spray foam insulation is simply the best thing you could do for your house this summer.

Other Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

The ones above are, in my mind anyway, some of the crucial benefits that spray foam can offer families. There are plenty of other benefits as well, including

• Keeping your home comfortable, dry, and cool in the muggy summer months. The heat from the attic will radiate throughout your entire home, making every room, but especially rooms on the second floor, nearly impossible to keep cool on the hottest of summer nights. You pay a small fortune to keep your family comfortable, but if you use spray foam insulation, you can dramatically cut your energy costs.
• Spray foam increases the strength of the walls in your home. You might not have thought of this one, but the fact remains that spray foam insulation works like a sturdy glue that provides an extra layer of protection and strength to the walls and the roof of your home.
• Closed-cell spray foam insulation not only acts like a seal from the outside elements but due to these properties, this prevents condensation to form. Condensation will lead to mold. You never have to worry about condensation again if you use spray foam to insulate your home with properly sized HVAC and ventilation.
• Spray foam is ranked as an R-7 per inch when it comes to insulating properties. One of the great things is that this R-value stays stable for decades! You never need to replace spray foam because it got wet or it became compressed over time.

One thing I love is telling clients that they don’t have to worry about “missing” spots. Spray foam expands to fill an entire space. No missed cracks or areas that require special attention. Let us do the work, and you will be amazed at the results.

Spray Foam: The Popular Option

It’s not surprising that more and more people are turning to spray foam to insulate their homes, garages, and bungalows.

Spray foam insulation is simply the best thing you could do for your house this summer. This season has just started, so you will begin reaping the benefits of spray foam insulation from day 1.

Come this winter, you will really love how warm and cozy every room in the house can be, and everyone in your family will appreciate the fact that you had the house insulated over the summer.

Enjoy your home this summer by calling Chicago Green Insulation. We will be happy to give you a quote and talk with you about your concerns.

Don’t spend another day living in what feels like a greenhouse. As I like to say, Comfort is Only a Foam Call Away!

Call us today!

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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Air Quality in Your Home

The One Thing You Haven’t Thought About During the Quarantine

During the last century (give or take a few years) there have been four pandemic outbreaks. Most of them involve the influenza virus (commonly called the flu), the H1N1 being the most recent in 2009.

Today, it is the Novel Corona Virus, which is something, unlike anything we could have ever imagined. This virus sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, doesn’t it?
While many people are under quarantine, being told that they are “safe at home”, I think this saying should be amended a bit to something along the lines of “safer at home than in public” for example.

This is because, since the 1990s, improvements in isolation and ventilation techniques have prevented the transmission of airborne diseases, such as TB (tuberculosis) and other diseases that are spread via the air.

The COVID-19 virus is another virus that is spread via airflow. This doesn’t change because you stay inside your home. One hospital study[1] found that an aerosol spray from one room transferred to another room 14.5 meters away via the ventilation system.

You Mean I’m Not Safe at Home?
Not exactly. Most modern homes use a ventilation system whereby the outside and interior air goes through a filter before it is pumped out into the rooms of the home.

To remove pollutants, including viruses, from the air circulation in your home, you need to use a HEPA filter. Note that this will only trap the virus in the filter. It won’t kill the virus, however. Some studies suggest that the virus might be able to live as long as 9 days inside the filter, depending on temperature and humidity levels. It might be wise to spray the filter every few days with Lysol or another type of disinfecting product. You can wear a mask and gloves when changing the filter and place it in a plastic bag for disposal as an extra precaution.

Is That the Only Thing I Can Do?
There is another thing to consider, the insulation in your home.
You will need to inspect the sealing on the doors and windows, replacing or repairing them as necessary to make an airtight seal, but that is not my area.

I want to discuss the areas of your home where unfiltered air can enter your home and bring contamination in with it.

Nearly everyone is familiar with the pink fiberglass insulation. Many homes have that type of insulation in the attic, but did you know that while fiberglass traps some of the air, it mainly allows air to pass through it?

Pink fiberglass insulation acts more like an air filter in some cases, but it is certainly not a HEPA filter!

There are other areas of your home that have zero insulation, especially if your home is an older model built before the late 1990s. Home built before 1950 are notorious for having zero insulation.

Picture the crawl space above the garage roof, or a crawl space under the home, the attic, and even around the HVAC unit itself if it is in the attic or a small space under the house.

Depending on the type of walls your structure has, it could also be leaking air through tiny cracks or the floorboards on the ground level could also allow air to seep in from outside.

Spray foam insulation fills every space, nook, and cranny. No unfiltered air will be able to penetrate your home, nor will any leak outside.

The Design of Your Home Also Matters
While there is not as much evidence that ventilation will directly reduce the risk of the transmission of airborne viruses, many studies have shown that insufficient ventilation increases disease transmission.

This means that you want a good airflow into your home. However, you want the air to flow through the HVAC filter as to not allow it to enter the home unfiltered. There is a link between the detection of viruses and other pathogens in the air inside a room and the transmission of disease[2]

Some homes have better ventilation than others due to the placement of windows and the HVAC unit. There might not be much you can do about either of these things, you can seal the uninsulated portions of your home to prevent unfiltered air from entering and possibly bringing contamination with it.

The Pink Stuff Won’t Cut It
As I have said before, pink fiberglass insulation does a poor job of both insulating your home and of keeping out unfiltered air.

Spray foam insulation fills every space, nook, and cranny. No unfiltered air will be able to penetrate your home, nor will any leak outside.

This not only means that you will have a cleaner, more pollutant-free residence to enjoy, but it will also significantly increase the value of your home, not to mention, save you thousands of dollars every single year on heating and cooling costs.

While you might have heard people state that spray foam insulation is extremely expensive. I won’t deny that it costs more than fiberglass, prices have come down in the past 5 or so years. If you haven’t received an estimate lately, you should call us for a new estimate. You will probably be delightfully surprised.

Also, when it comes to price, most people find that spray foam insulation typically pays for itself in lower energy costs. An average attic and ceiling will pay for itself within 4 years and basement walls, as well as crawl spaces, will pay for themselves in 2 to 4 years.

After that, you are putting money in the bank! Not to mention the pure comfort of having a well-insulated, draft-free home that is free from unfiltered air and the possible pollutants, allergens, and viruses it carries. Imagine the peace of mind that brings. How much is that worth?
My team and I will be happy to perform an inspection and show you where unfiltered air is entering your home and where you are losing valuable heat or AC.

As I am fond of saying, “Comfort is just a FOAM call away!” (847) 987-3626

Call us today to schedule your appointment and get that peace of mind that is so difficult to find in today’s world.

[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1876610215019165
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK143278/

The post Air Quality in Your Home appeared first on Chicago Green Insulation.

Foam or Fiberglass?

Are You Letting Your Dream Home Get Away?

When purchasing a new or previously owned home, a buyer must consider many things before putting their signature on the dotted line. Will the house be large enough to accommodate my family comfortably? Will the mortgage and insurance payments fit my budget comfortably? Is this the right neighborhood, and are there schools nearby, etc.

Increasingly, prospective homeowners are considering the costs of maintenance and operating costs. In a new report from the National Association of Realtors it was found that individuals between the ages of 24 and 39 consider the price of heating and cooling their prospective home “very important.”

What Buyers Are Looking For
In addition to the cost of the home itself, buyers are looking into what type of insulation the home currently has and the cost of upgrading to spray foam insulation, if the home currently lacks it.

This is because while fiberglass is significantly cheaper in the short-haul, it is also far less effective when it comes to keeping a home warm or cool. Spray foam isn’t nearly as expensive as many homeowners believe and the savings on a typical heating or cooling bill can be enormous.

In fact, in one test, conducted by a company in San Antonio, Texas, three homes of compatible sizes were insulated with different types of materials. In this test found that by using spray foam insulation to make walls and roofs more efficient, the size of the HVAC system can be downsized by as much as 35 percent, while the homeowner can see savings of as much as 50 percent on their heating and cooling bills.

Why Spray Foam Insulation?
You can instantly recognize a home that has been insulated with spray foam; it is quieter, cleaner smelling, and the overall temperature remains the same throughout each room. Comfort is one item that all about-to-be homeowners are looking for, of course, but the cost of maintaining that comfort can make or break the sale of the home.

The Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam makes nearly any home feel more comfortable by reducing those annoying drafts and huge fluctuations in temperature from room to room. A home that is insulated with spray foam allows HVAC units to work more efficiently and more environmentally friendly by consuming less energy. Less energy use translates to lower monthly bills.

Another benefit to spray foam is an improvement in overall air quality inside the home. By sealing the air leaks that cause drafts, this will minimize the amount of dust, pollution, airborne allergens, and germs that find their way to the inside. Since spray foam insulation can be applied to nearly every room of the house, including garages, attics, and crawl spaces, this not only provides cleaner air, but protects against water leaks, which can cause mold or mildew damage, and prevents insects from making the inside of the home their home as well.

Spray foam is also incredibly durable. Once installed and fully cured, spray foam will last the life of the home. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has revealed that closed-cell spray foam is classified as being highly resistant to flood damage (class 5). Spray foam also provides improved integrity for walls and offers wind uplift resistance in homes with unvented attics.

When used to insulate wall cavities, roof deck undersides, and garages, homes with spray foam insulation are notably quieter than those with the standard pink fiberglass.

When purchasing a new or previously owned home, prospective homeowners are considering the costs of maintenance and operating costs.

Common Misconceptions about Spray Foam Insulation
While the internet is great for finding out anything you need to know about nearly every subject on earth, it is also full of misinformation and myths. Some of the common questions that I am asked about week after week include:

1. Doesn’t Fiberglass Insulate as Well as Spray Foam?
It’s not even close. Fiberglass will settle over time, which means you will need to replace it. You never need to replace spray foam. In addition to that, fiberglass insulation has a far lower R-value. Fiberglass insulation is also notorious for allowing air and moisture to leak past it, causing drafts, as well as mold and mildew. Spray foam insulation is “done once and you’re done.” You never need to replace it and it prevents insects, drafts, and mold from making its way inside your home.

2. Is Spray Foam Harmful to My Family or Pets?
Not true. While the two chemicals that create spray foam are being mixed and sprayed, yes, it can be dangerous to be without some heavy-duty protection, but after the foam is fully cured, it is completely non-toxic.

3. All Spray Foam is the Same, Right?
There are three different types of spray foam insulation. Spray foam is classified by density.

A. High-Density- this is the most durable type and is mainly used in roofs or exterior buildings.
B. Medium-Density- Sometimes called closed-cell, this is the most common type of spray foam and is used to insulate nearly all parts of a home.
C. Low-Density- Also called open-cell, this is the type that you purchase in those cans from your local hardware store. These are designed for very small spaces, such as insulating around an outdoor water spigot.

4. Is it True that I Will NEVER Recoup My Payout for Spray Foam?
This is another myth. In fact, in studies done by the USDOE (Department of Energy), the average home loses about 60 percent of its energy from the air that passes through the attic or from crawlspaces, with windows, walls, and doors coming in a close second. However, homes that have spray foam insulation will lose less than 50 percent air than homes without spray foam. The amount of money saved over the years on energy bills is astounding and you might qualify for a federal or state tax deduction for using spray foam insulation.

5. Isn’t Spray Foam Bad for the Environment?
This one is yes and no. While there are plenty of spray foam products that aren’t good for the environment, there are others that are quite eco-friendly. Here at Chicago Green Insulation, we use products that are free from formaldehyde, VOCs, and HCFCs. Our products are made from sugar and natural oils, which aren’t damaging to the environment, so you can feel good about them.

In a Nutshell
If you are constructing a new home, come and talk to the professionals at Chicago Green Insulation. If you are considering purchasing a home, we can give you an estimate for insulating your castle if it doesn’t have spray foam insulation now. Don’t spend a hot and muggy Chicago summer spending a fortune to cool your home. Call Chicago Green Insulation today. Remember, comfort is only a FOAM call away!

1-nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2020-generational-trends-report-03-05-2020.pdf
2-polyurethane.americanchemistry.com
3-fema.gov/media-library/20130726-1502-20490-4764/fema_tb_rev1.pdf

About the Author, Tom Decker

With ten years of experience selling spray foam insulation in Chicago, Tom Decker is THE person to call and the Chicago Green Insulation is the organization to hire when you are looking for top notch quality and performance as well as someone who can deal with the needs of code officials, home owners and general contractors. Call the others in Chicago, if you are interested in the cheapest price, call Chicago Green Insulation if you are interested in using your dollars to make Chicago a better city for all of us!

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