Icynene Exposed To Weather OK? (under Cantilevered Section Of House)

pdwood

Hi all,

What are your experiences with using Icynene outside or exposed to weather? I work in Massachusetts.

I have a section of house (approx. 30' x 3') that is cantilevered 12" over bare dirt. Getting into the space to insulate by hand is virtually impossible without excavating the dirt out. In addition there is a deck built directly in front of the whole cantilevered section. The deck boards are being replaced now, so there is some access to the cantilevered section (enough for someone to blow in insulation), but not enough to easily excavate.

Ideally, I'd like to use Icynene but I'm not sure of it's exterior durability. I know the Icynene website specifies that its product is "not intended for outdoor use" but that doesn't seem to say that it will fail if used in that application.

The area I want to use it in gets cold (-10 F at worst), and windy, is accessible by bugs and small rodents, but does not get direct exposure to rain. It structure seems to be fairly dry in general. The only moisture the Icynene would be exposed to would be from direct contact with the ground or general air humidity. The cantilevered section has wood sheathing on the underside set atop a concrete foundation.

Any and all experiences with Icynene used outside would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Peter

swbet

We are a spray foam roofing and insulation contractor in New Mexico, and I never recommend or install open cell foam (such as Icynene) exposed to the outside or in contact with the ground. If you are going to use spray foam go with a closed cell foam. Closed cell spray foam is waterproof and more durable then open cell. I don't believe Icynene makes closed cell spray foam, but there are plenty of companies that do. Just google "closed cell spray foam" and you should find plenty or just pm me and I can give you some if you need me to.

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pdwood

I very much appreciate the response and am looking into it. Thanks.

swbet

No problem. Good luck.

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