Icynene - Healthier, Quieter, More Energy Efficient

Structural Improvements

Synopsis

  • Roofing structure and moisture management issues addressed
  • Energy-efficiency improved
  • Floor temperatures regulated in rooms above open space

The project focuses on a house in historic Cambridge, Massachusetts in dire need of an upgrade.  In addition to incorporating a new “warm” and “modern” look, the This Old House® crew and homeowner had to address fundamental structural upgrades.

The upgrade called for an expansion from two stories to three (total square footage increased from 2,400 square feet to 4,000 square feet), which includes the addition of a first floor library and a third floor loft that could be used for another bedroom. 

For the This Old House® crew, the Cambridge project posed new challenges as they became familiar with innovative approaches to design while dealing with water damage, outdated systems (the house had a very early version of radiant floor heat), insufficient insulation, and inefficient windows.  Here are some of the challenges and how Icynene® spray insulation was used to overcome them:

Big windows

This Old House® Host Kevin O'Connor and General Contractor Tom Silva Discuss the Benefits of Icynene®

Problem

Large expanses of glass don't keep out the winter cold and summer heat.

Solution

New, high-performance windows and Icynene soft foam spray insulation and air barrier material above and below for an air tight seal that effectively controls energy-robbing random air leakage, which can account for up to 40% of heat loss.

Roof vents

Problem

A flat roof needs cross ventilation to prevent moisture build-up, but thick insulation gets in the way.

Solution

The Icynene soft foam spray insulation and air barrier material was applied to the underside of the roof deck and eliminated the need for venting because it prevents airborne moisture transfer to the roof from the living space when insulating a house.

Cantilevered structures

Problem

Rooms that hang over open space are hard to support and have cold floors from air circulating underneath.

Solution

Beefed up headers, radiant floor heating, and Icynene spray insulation. The suspended floors are kept warm with Icynene because it provides an air tight seal with the floor above.  In this application, with increased header depths, traditionally fastened insulations regularly leave a gap where cold air can contact the floor.

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