Loose Fill in Joisted Cavities With Rigid Barrier

Detail ID 4.0301.3
Topic
Floors
Subtopic
Accessible Floors
Desired Outcome

Continuous, contiguous, and safe thermal boundary that prevents air movement @ 50 Pascals

SF Single Family Site-Built Housing
MH Manufactured Housing
MF Multifamily Housing

Specifications

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Verify that installation area is free of:

active water leaks, fuel leaks (i.e., gas, oil, propane), and pest intrusions

energized or undammed knob and tube wiring

uncovered electrical junctions

improperly terminated devices (ventilation fans, dryers, plumbing stacks, condensate lines, combustion appliance flues/chimneys, etc.)

unshielded high-temperature devices (non-IC rated recessed lights, chimneys, flues, vents, etc.) unless they are zero clearance devices

insulation escape openings

Verify that installation area is:

intact, able to support insulation weight, and air sealed

Ensure space can be safely insulated

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select insulation that has a flame spread and smoke development index of 25/450 or less and backing material that has a smoke development index of 450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723

Select rigid backing material that:

is a permanent air barrier

will support installed insulation without failure

Select fire safe materials

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select sealants that:

are compatible with their intended surfaces

allow for differential expansion and contraction between dissimilar materials

meet the requirements of the applicable fire safety code (e.g., thermal or ignition barriers)

are low volatile organic compound (VOC) sealants for use inside the pressure boundary that meet independent testing and verification protocols

Select safe and effective sealants

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install flags that can be seen below the floor joists at any utility junctions that will be covered by insulation

Identify utility junctions for future access

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install a rigid air barrier material over entire area to be insulated that will withstand insulation pressures

Secure backing material using mechanical fasteners that penetrate the sub framing a minimum of 1"

Seal all seams, joints, connections, etc. with a compatible sealant

Installation must have a minimum of a 30-year service life

Airtight, durable insulation backing

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Fill 100% of each cavity to capacity with the insulation in full contact with the air barrier

Complete and consistent insulation coverage

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install closure system over all access holes that is airtight and permanent

Airtight, durable, access closure

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Separate all foam products from living space with a thermal barrier material (e.g., 1/2" gypsum wallboard) as specified by applicable building code

If space is used only for the service of utilities, foam will be separated from the space using a suitable ignition barrier covering or coating according to manufacturer's specifications

If space is used for storage or occupancy, spray foam will be separated from the space using a thermal barrier material (e.g., 1/2" gypsum wallboard) as specified by applicable building code and manufacturer specifications

If code requirements are unclear, consult local code officials for clarification

Minimize ignition and combustion potential

  • SF
  • MH
  • MF
Specification Objective

Post a dated receipt signed by the installer that minimally includes: Installed insulation type, coverage area, installed thickness, minimum settled thickness, installed R-value, and number of bags installed

Comply with 16 CFR 460.17 and document contract compliance