The State of Louisiana has been facing problems with fresh water since the beginning of the last decade. Applying water-conscious preventive measures including spray foam insulation has never been this timely.

Back in 2001, a U.S. Geological Survey found the water-rich but policy lacking state facing the onset of water shortages, with the public, irrigation system and industrial companies draining the soil for water. Louisiana did not have any laws governing its water resources. Also only a few buildings and households have had energy saving measures and spray foam insulation treatments.

The population has relied heavily on aquifers because of a nagging saltwater intrusion problem, which is not exclusive to Louisiana. The fears became a reality in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina devastated the region and exposed the State’s vulnerability.

Since then the state has passed several bills on water resources and strengthened its environmental policy. At present, every individual and household still needs to fully exert contributions in solving this and related environmental problems. One such act is to ensure more buildings and houses adapt energy-saving solutions such as spray foam insulation and energy auditing.

Another problem is the receding of the Louisiana coastlines especially after Katrina.  The state’s agriculture industry has faced production woes brought on by extreme heat, drought and increased salinity in irrigation water supplies. Louisiana agriculture officials reached out to the USDA and the United States Corps of Engineers to come up with long-term solutions.

For Louisiana citizens, small acts can bring a huge impact. About 36 states are projected to have water woes by 2013. More than ever Americans need preserve the value of fresh potable water.

A few simple water-conscious measures can be done in habit and eventually prevent a nationwide water crisis. 

Every citizen, especially Louisiana, should check their toilets, bathroom, sinks and plumbing for leaks. An estimated 100 gallons a week are lost due to a single leaking toilet. Washing machines and dishwashers should be inspected for stains or drips. Water meters should be check by the hour whether it keeps running even when water is not being used.

Every household should also use water-efficient fixtures. Investing in quality faucets, showers, and toilets can save many from serious water troubles.  These models still deliver the same function but use less water.

When it comes to drinking water, it’s best to drink sustainably. Instead of running the tap, water dispenser, or opening the fridge, one should keep a bottle of water (from the tap, instead of expensive bottled brands) at home, at work, at the gym during water breaks. You prevent dehydration while also not wasting drinking water by keeping a bottle always at hand.

Households also need to insulate pipes to counter water loss caused by burst piping. Pipes running in unheated spaces such as garages, crawlspaces and basement should be checked for possible insulation. Fiberglass and foam insulation sleeves can be used for water pipes and are available in hardware stores.

And undoubtedly one the most effective means to save on utility bills such as electricity and water is applying spray foam insulation treatment in the house. A well-insulated house, protected from molds, moisture, and air leaks, is a house that can keep its water source safe and intact.

To find a great spray foam insulation service, visit www.ecostarfoam.com. You may also call: (504)383-3261.

Home insulation is sought by home owners today as a number#1 home renovation project. It is the best way to reduce the money spent on home maintenance monthly. Spray foam has a successful track record and many seek to install it for lifelong benefits.

Spray foam is not only known as an insulation that stops the flow of electricity. Spray foam is popular for many other benefits it affords along with energy saving. For starters spray foam makes the house extremely sturdy to face any sort of climatic challenges. Its coating also makes your home water proof, pest free, dust free and fire resistant. Your home is set free of any molds and mildew that could creep in. Also getting spray foam installed in your house fetches you a good amount when you plan to resell your house.

All the above mentioned reasons seem to be quite tempting to get spray foam installed at your place. But have you considered which form of spray foam is ideal for your house. Let’s see the type of spray foams you can choose.

There are basically two types of spray foams available in the market – Open Cell Foam Insulation and Closed Cell Foam Insulation. The difference between the two is their physical make up and the R-value they provide. These factors make a very significant difference to the product performance, application processes and consumer cost.
Open Cell Foam is .05 lb. /cu. ft. It consists of small cells that are not completely closed. The cells are open with air fills in them. As they are loosely bound to each other due to the air pockets the structure is weak. Also they are less water resistant when compared to closed cell foam.

On the other hand closed spray foam insulation is also made of small cells like open spray foam but they are closely bound to each other with no air gaps to make the bond loose. The cells are not filled in with air but with gas that makes the foam rise and expand. This means that the foam is dense, completely water proof and sturdy too.

In order to measure the density of the spray foam you will have to weigh one cured cubic foot of foam material. The open cell foam weighs around 0.4 to 0.5 lb. /cu. ft. whereas closed cell foam has a density of 1.7 lb. /cu. ft. to 2.0 lb. /cu. ft. If you are planning for the insulation of your roof then you need to select a spray foam that gives better support and is sturdy itself. A spray foam with good density promises stronger support.

If we compare the R-value of both the types, open cell spray foam has an R-value of 3.5 per inch and closed-cell spray foams insulation on an average has an R-value of around 7.0 per inch. Open spray foam requires water as a blowing agent on the other hand close cell spray foam needs high R-value blowing agents.

Closed cell spray foam emerges as a popular choice as it is more efficient due to its denser make. It provides higher structural integrity that supports the foundation and allows complete sealing. Also its R-value is higher and gives a strong evidence of insulation ability. They are more efficient at reducing air leaks and prevent water/ moisture infiltration. So they form a better insulation option.

EcoStarFoam.com is a leading service provider for spray foam insulation. Our team of professionals use durable spray foam of various well known brands to cover every cavity in your house and make your home energy efficient. Our service is well known in New Orleans, Louisiana and surrounding area. (504) 383 – 3261