🏠 Spray Foam Roof Insulation: What Homeowners Need to Know
- aisolutions7
- Jun 3
- 3 min read
At Absolute Interior Solutions, we're committed to helping homeowners make informed decisions about their properties. One increasingly common concern is spray foam roof insulation—a product that promises energy efficiency but comes with serious long-term considerations.
🔴 We do not recommend homeowners install spray foam insulation. The risks often outweigh the benefits.
🔍 What Is Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation is a chemical mixture that expands when applied, sealing gaps in your roof and attic. It’s been promoted through schemes like the Green Homes Grant and the ongoing Great British Insulation Scheme.
While it's been used for decades, uptake has surged—around 250,000 UK homes now have it in their lofts.
🧪 Types of Spray Foam
1. Closed-Cell Spray Foam
Hardens into a rigid layer
Sometimes used to strengthen old roofs
Can restrict ventilation and trap moisture
May lead to timber rot and structural issues
2. Open-Cell Spray Foam
Softer, less dense
Used mainly for insulation
Risky if applied directly to roof tiles
Still requires expert installation and risk assessments
⚠️ Major Risks to Homeowners
Even if installed correctly, spray foam insulation comes with serious drawbacks:
💰 High removal costs if problems arise
🌧️ Risk of condensation and damp
❌ Reduces mortgage eligibility and resale options
🏚️ Difficult to inspect roof condition post-installation
⚖️ Potential legal issues from unregulated contractors
Some homeowners are being targeted by removal scams and "no-win, no-fee" legal firms. Be cautious.
🏦 Mortgage and Equity Release Issues
Many major UK lenders won’t approve mortgages for homes with spray foam insulation.
Why?
Surveyors can’t see the roof structure
It may hide damage or decay
Risk-averse lenders often decline applications outright
Affected Options:
Mortgages for buyers
Equity release (unless installed at construction)
Remortgaging or switching lenders
📝 Selling a Home With Spray Foam?
Selling is possible, but you’ll likely need to provide:
Installation warranty
Product certification (BBA/KIWA)
Condensation risk assessment
Pre-/post-installation photos
Roof condition survey report
📌 A professional spray foam survey can cost £500–£700, but may help secure your sale.
💡 Already Have Spray Foam Installed?
If you're not experiencing issues and not planning to sell—there’s no urgent need to act.
But if you are selling:
Contact the original installer for documentation
Avoid cold-callers offering removals or legal action
Seek guidance from certified experts
🧹 Removing Spray Foam Insulation
Removing spray foam is costly and invasive:
~£40 per square metre (Checkatrade estimate)
Plus disposal fees and potential roof damage
May reveal rot or damp hidden underneath
👉 Always use a reputable removal company. Start by contacting:
The original installer
One of the six major UK manufacturers:
Huntsman Building Solutions
Synthesia
Isothane
BASF
LogicFoam
ThermoFoam
Still unsure? The Insulation Manufacturers Association may help.
🏘️ Buying a Home With Spray Foam?
Before buying:
Ask your surveyor to inspect the loft
Ensure your solicitor gets all relevant documents
Check with your mortgage provider about their policy
Consider negotiating the price to cover future removal
✅ Safer Alternatives to Spray Foam
Most UK homes benefit just as much from:
270–300mm of loft floor insulation
Materials like mineral wool or cellulose
Properly installed vapor barriers
These options are:
Cheaper ✅
Easier to inspect ✅
Mortgage-friendly ✅
💬 Our Recommendation
At Absolute Interior Solutions, we do not recommend the use of spray foam insulation in residential properties. The risks—to your structure, finances, and peace of mind—are simply too great.
✅ If you're considering it, speak to a qualified surveyor first.✅ If you already have it, we can help guide your next steps.
📞 Need Advice?
We’re here to help. If you’re worried about spray foam in your home—or are unsure whether it's safe—contact us today for a no-obligation consultation.
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