The purpose of this document is to help clarify construction methodology for the best integration of sprayed EARTHANE foam in the whole construction process. This document is adapted from another document developed by the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in 1999. Changes have been made to better utilize the capabilities and qualities of EARTHANE foam insulation.

Use insulated corners (two stud or equivalent) to improve insulation coverage– use drywall clips or a vertical nailer. Use insulated partition intersection options to improve insulation coverage– use drywall clips or a vertical nailer. Use insulated headers. Limit the use of blocking to improve insulation coverage.Use rigid board insulation in place of structural sheathing in non-corner areas– fasten with plastic capped nails. Use cross or let in bracing to allow rigid board insulation to be used in place of structural sheathing.

We see so many applications where the over use of studs minimize the ability of the spray insulation to do a better job. When framing, think about the insulation providing as complete a barrier as possible between the interior space and the outside air. It is important to remember that the foam is rigid and will add structure between studs.

Attach blocking between trusses or framing to best allow insulation to be place over the top of the wall to roof intersection so as not to create a conduction point. With sprayed EARTHANE no roof venting is required.
For cathedral ceilings, remember 7.5 inches of EARTHANE equals R-48 to meet the new New York State code, so a 2X10 rafter is sufficient for proper insulation. Remember to always cover with fire rated sheetrock even if additional, alternative coverings are specified.

For trusses and flat ceilings, EARTHANE can be applied in several ways. It is important to remember that cellular plastics, ALL OF THEM, need to be protected with a 15 minute thermal barrier according to the building code. Many open cell foam suppliers are stating different, but check your code and with your enforcement officials before listening to any product supplier.

With trusses, nailers can be attached at the correct height to the sides of the trusses and sheet rock cut to the correct size can be screwed between the trusses. Then EARTHANE is applied from the living space, sealing all gaps and voids and connecting the areas around the truss members for continuous insulation and sealing. Once complete, sheetrock is installed on the interior surface.

With ceiling rafters, sheetrock can be laid on top with cut outs for bracing. Attachment can be eliminated or minimal because of the extreme adhesive qualities of the EARTHANE insulation. Blocking can be installed where the ceiling rafters intersect with the roof so that insulation can be extended over the top of the exterior wall for a complete insulation barrier and to limit thermal conduction. If there is attic access, an insulated cover should be made for the stairway and walkways should be built to cover the upper layer of sheetrock.

For the best EARTHANE insulation job it is important to remember that the goal is to separate the exterior air from the interior space and that whereever possible there should be a thickness of EARTHANE equal to the energy code requirement as continuously applied as possible. The more this can be achieved, the better value the homeowner will receive for the investment in EARTHANE insulation.