Non-Joisted Floors Rigid Foam

Detail ID 4.0301.8
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
  • 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

Verify all plumbing and ductwork will be inside the thermal boundary

Ensure space can be safely insulated

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Select insulation and support materials that have a flame spread and smoke development index of 75/450 or less when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723

Select fire safe materials

  • SF
  • 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
  • MF
Specification Objective

Remove any existing insulation or vapor barrier materials from installation area

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

Prevent condensation, identify utility junctions for future access

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install rigid insulation continuously over entire accessible area to prescribed R-value in full contact with the air barrier and all structural framing without gaps, voids, or misalignments

If installing multiple layers, offset seams at least 12" and seal the seams of each layer before applying the next

Where rigid foam plastics are used, in no case will the final thickness exceed the manufacturer's tested thickness used to determine the maximum 75 flame spread and 450 smoke-development index when tested to ASTM E84 or UL 723

Continuous and contiguous thermal boundary that prevents excessive vapor intrusion

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Seal all seams, joints, connections, etc. of rigid insulation at entire perimeter and at all support beams

Airtight insulation that prevents condensation

  • SF
  • MF
Specification Objective

Install a support system for rigid insulation that is mechanically fastened to the floor deck that has a minimum service life of 30 years

Secure insulation to floor

  • SF
  • 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
  • MF
Specification Objective

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

Comply with 16 CFR 460.17 and document contract compliance

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Accessible Floors
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Non-Joisted Floors SPF