Attic spray foam insulation in Metairie

What attic spray foam encapsulation does

In a typical Metairie home, the air handler and ductwork sit in a vented attic that can top 120 degrees on summer afternoons. Every leak in those ducts pulls in hot, humid attic air. Spraying foam on the underside of the roof deck and gable walls turns the attic into a sealed, semi-conditioned space, so the ducts and equipment work in much milder air.

Spray foam attic options

• Roof-deck encapsulation: foam on the underside of the roof deck and gables, with attic vents sealed. The most common approach when ducts are in the attic.
• Attic floor foam: foam on the attic floor, leaving the attic vented. Less common, and usually used where there are no ducts in the attic.
• Hybrid: a layer of closed-cell foam for air sealing, topped with less expensive insulation.

Open-cell or closed-cell for a Metairie attic?

Open-cell foam is the most common choice on attic roof decks. It costs less per inch and is thick enough to reach typical R-value targets. Closed-cell foam is denser and blocks moisture, and some homeowners choose it on the roof deck for added rigidity. Compare them in our open-cell vs. closed-cell guide.

Planning a spray foam attic in a humid climate

• Fix roof leaks and replace soft or rotten decking before foam goes on.
• Ask whether the sealed attic will get a small supply of conditioned air or a dehumidifier. In our humid climate, that helps keep the space dry.
• Have an HVAC contractor check equipment size afterward. A sealed attic often lowers the cooling load.
• Keep a copy of the foam type and thickness for future buyers, roofers and insurers.

Typical attic jobs and prices are in our cost guide.

Related: spray foam in a humid climate · old insulation removal · spray foam and hurricane season