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Benefits of Using Expanding Foam Tape in the Home to Increase Energy Efficiency

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:23:42 GMT

In the ongoing quest for improving energy efficiency and reducing household energy costs, homeowners are increasingly turning to innovative, cost-effective solutions. One such solution gaining attention is expanding foam tape. This versatile product, typically used for sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other areas of the home, offers significant benefits for enhancing energy efficiency. Expanding foam tape can help reduce energy loss, prevent drafts, improve indoor comfort, and contribute to lowering heating and cooling costs. In this document, we explore the various ways expanding foam tape can boost energy efficiency in the home.

1. Sealing Gaps and Cracks

The primary benefit of expanding foam tape is its ability to seal small gaps, cracks, and joints around doors, windows, electrical outlets, baseboards, and other openings in a home’s structure. These gaps are often overlooked, yet they are a common source of air leakage. Even the smallest openings can allow warm air to escape during the winter or let cool air escape during the summer, forcing HVAC systems to work harder to maintain the desired temperature inside.

Expanding foam tape is particularly effective in sealing irregularly shaped gaps or areas that are difficult to reach with traditional weather-stripping or caulk. When applied, the tape expands to fill the gap completely, creating an airtight seal. This simple application helps prevent drafts, reducing the workload on heating and cooling systems, and ultimately conserving energy.

2. Improving Insulation

In addition to sealing air leaks, expanding foam tape can also provide a layer of insulation. The foam material used in the tape is designed to expand upon application, creating a thicker barrier that not only blocks air flow but also provides thermal insulation. This added insulation helps reduce heat transfer between the inside and outside of the home, keeping the interior temperature more stable.

For homes that experience significant temperature fluctuations or areas with poor insulation, such as garages, attics, and basements, expanding foam tape can be an inexpensive solution to improve thermal performance. By minimizing the transfer of heat through gaps in walls, windows, and doors, the tape helps maintain a more comfortable indoor environment.

3. Enhanced Comfort

Seasonal temperature fluctuations can also make it difficult to maintain a consistent indoor climate, leading to higher energy use as the HVAC system works to compensate for the temperature imbalance.

Homeowners can instead create a more stable indoor environment, free from drafts and temperature inconsistencies. This enhanced comfort can be especially important in areas like bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices, where a pleasant and consistent temperature is crucial for relaxation and productivity.

4. Energy Cost Savings

One of the most direct benefits of using expanding foam tape is the potential for significant energy cost savings. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, air leaks account for up to 30% of a home's heating and cooling energy costs. By effectively sealing gaps and improving insulation, expanding foam tape helps reduce the amount of energy required to heat or cool a home.

In the winter, preventing warm air from escaping means that the heating system doesn't need to run as frequently or for as long, which can lead to lower heating bills. Similarly, during the summer, sealing air leaks helps keep cool air inside, reducing the load on air conditioners and lowering cooling costs. Over time, these small savings can add up, making expanding foam tape a valuable investment for homeowners looking to reduce their energy consumption and environmental impact.

5. Ease of Application

Unlike other home improvement solutions that may require professional installation or specialized tools, expanding foam tape is easy to apply and can be used by DIY homeowners. The tape typically comes in a roll and can be cut to the desired length. Simply peel off the backing and apply it to the gap or crack in question. As the tape expands, it fills the gap and creates a secure seal. This ease of use makes expanding foam tape an accessible and affordable solution for improving energy efficiency.

 Conclusion

Incorporating expanding foam tape into your home improvement efforts offers a simple yet effective way to enhance energy efficiency. By sealing gaps, improving insulation, and reducing energy consumption, expanding foam tape can contribute to lower utility bills, a more comfortable living environment, and long-term savings.

Qu-Air/UV Protection

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 14:37:02 GMT

Another new product fills our shelves this month, new UV Tape in black. Perfect for sealing inside and out with very good ageing and moisture resistance.

Qu-Pro-300 - Structural Spacer Tape

Thu, 15 Oct 2020 11:46:22 GMT

Introducing Qu-Pro-300

Introducing our latest product to hit the shelves, new Qu-Pro- 300 Structural Glazing Spacer Tape.

A double sided PVC foam tape most commonly used for two and four sided structural glazing, forming a load bearing function while the structural silicone sealant cures.

As Qu-Pro-300 can be sold in various widths and thickness you can either find standard rolls available in store or give our office a call to discuss how we can custom this product to your needs.

Big project ahead? Call us directly for your bespoke quote.

How Structural Glazing Tape Works

Structural glazing tape is a specialized adhesive tape used in the construction of fenestration systems, particularly in commercial applications such as skylights, storefronts, and curtain walls. The functionality and effectiveness of structural glazing tape can be understood through several key aspects:

1. Purpose and Application: Structural glazing tape serves as a bonding agent between the insulated glass unit (IGU) and the frame of the window or door. Unlike traditional methods that rely solely on silicone caulk for sealing, structural glazing utilizes this tape to create a strong mechanical bond that supports the weight of the glass while also providing an effective seal against environmental elements.

2. Composition: Typically made from acrylic foam, structural glazing tapes are designed to provide high adhesion properties and flexibility. This composition allows them to accommodate movement due to thermal expansion and contraction, which is crucial in maintaining the integrity of the seal over time.

3. Installation Process: During installation, structural glazing tape is applied to the frame where the IGU will be placed. The IGU is then positioned onto this tape, creating a uniform gap between the glass and the frame. This gap is subsequently filled with a liquid sealant—usually silicone—providing an additional layer of protection against moisture infiltration and enhancing overall bond strength.

4. Advantages: The use of structural glazing tape offers several advantages:

Clean Sight Lines: Since it eliminates the need for excessive caulking, it provides aesthetically pleasing sight lines.

Rapid Cure Times: Tapes allow for immediate handling after installation, which can significantly reduce project timelines.

Ease of Fabrication: The application process is straightforward compared to traditional methods involving extensive curing times for sealants.

5. Performance Characteristics: Structural glazing tapes are engineered to withstand various environmental conditions including UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and moisture. They maintain their adhesive properties over time without significant degradation, ensuring long-lasting performance.

In summary, structural glazing tape works by providing a robust adhesive bond between glass units and frames in fenestration systems while allowing for flexibility and movement due to environmental changes , thus enhancing both performance and aesthetics in building designs.

Versatile Xpanda - August 2020

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 11:52:28 GMT

Qualitape Xpanda foam tape shown in a garage door installation.
Versatile, No Mess, No Fuss!

New Social Distancing Products for May

Thu, 21 May 2020 14:05:15 GMT

New Safety signs available at Qualitape, call us for more information

Social Distancing 2020

Mon, 11 May 2020 14:05:07 GMT

New products available to help you through the Covid 19 restrictions.

You can now find social distancing and hazard tapes, hand sanitiser and masks in store. Don't forget we can also supply the foam required for assembling PPE Visors. For more information give us a call on 01440 710747.

Still here to help!

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 11:45:29 GMT

Pre-cut foam strips now available for protective visors.

Call today for more information 01440 710747

Corona Update

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 12:22:58 GMT

Qualitape are still office active at this time with restricted access and no-contact deliveries in place.
Supporting our customers and colleagues is our absolute priority so we aim to continue processing your orders for as long as it is safe to do so.

Please let us know if there is anything we can do further to help comply with your safety protocols and above all, stay safe and stay healthy!

Spic and Span Xpanda Van

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 14:44:01 GMT

A new make over for our delivery van!

Our local delivery van travels miles to fulfil timely customer orders, keep an eye out for the new Xpanda Panda image.

P.S no Panda's are kept in the van overnight!

Helping our customers to Save & Grow in 2020.

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 11:20:59 GMT

Find the same great products at the same great price!

Introducing the New Air Seal FFP3 Mask from Moldex!

Thu, 23 Jan 2020 12:59:35 GMT

This new FFP3 mask can be used over several days* and can be stored safely and hygienically for continued use.

*Usage time is subject to concentrations and breathing resistance, the respirator should be disposed of and replaced if breathing resistance becomes excessive

Winter Quarter Promotion

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:14:36 GMT

5% Discount now included when you purchase any Case of FFP Mask!
(offer ends 31st March 2020)

Work Family 2019

Thu, 19 Dec 2019 13:07:43 GMT

We feel lucky to have a special team here at Qualitape who still look forward to getting together even after hours.

What is Passive House?

Wed, 18 Dec 2019 12:53:29 GMT

Passive House in 90 Seconds

Merry Christmas to all our Customers!

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 14:34:57 GMT

Fit Testing Now Available

Thu, 19 Sep 2019 09:31:30 GMT

Moldex Range Now in Stock

“HSE considers the qualitative and quantitative fit test methods described in OC282/28 to be suitable and sufficient.

Any other methods used would need to be supported with validated evidence that demonstrates it's suitability as a fit test.

At this moment we do not consider any alternative fit test methods to be suitable. If a HSE Inspector is presented with an alternative, un-validated fit test method on site then they will take the appropriate enforcement action.”

Peter Griffin

Principle Specialist Inspector

Health & Safety Executive

Qualitative fit testing is a HSE approved method as described in OC282/28. Tight fitting RPE MUST be fit tested as part of the initial selection process.

We are pleased to announce that we can now offer this service to you and your company. One of our approved testers can visit your site to perform fit tests and/or take your trainer through the fit testing process. We will leave you with a Moldex Fit Test Kit which will allow you to c arry out multiple tests on both FFP's and half masks. The kit includes an instruction CD to help employers understand more about Fit Testing & the requirements, it also contains an employee fit test record to help you comply with the law. All packaged in a sturdy carry case.

Our Fit Test service allows you to take charge of your own Fit Testing Programme, thereby reducing costs and enabling you to carry out Fit Testing whenever necessary (new employee, change of RPE etc).

Once tested you will receive a certificate which is valid for 2 years. Call today for more information or to book your Fit Test!

Xpanda for Panda's!

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 23:00:00 GMT

Meet Tian Tian enjoying her new Panda enclosure at Edinburgh Zoo!

We are proud to announce that this recently constructed enclosure includes our very own BBA approved Xpanda foam tape.

For more information on how Xpanda foam tape can improve and protect your build please give us a call on 01440 710747.

Why choose Xpanda 600?

Wed, 18 Sep 2019 13:51:33 GMT

The benefits of a brand you can trust

Even in today's market, you can still see a clear divide between installers who know and use expanding foam and those that haven't heard of it or see no reason to change from traditional applications. While other joint sealing products seem convenient and cheap, Xpanda 600 really is just as easy and economical but offers a huge list of benefits which ensure end user happiness along with reassurance for fitters and peace of mind for window manufacturers.

There is no shortage of expanding foam tapes on the market. With a choice ranging from low budget seals up to premium products where consumers rely on quality and branding, rarely do you find a company which can offer all of these qualities rolled into one. A quality without compromise with cost effectiveness are the benchmarks that our products have become renown. Our Xpanda 600 joint sealing tape has always ranked high when compared with other tapes available, however, we are now able to offer BBA approval which really does speak for itself. Quality, performance, tried and tested!

Xpanda 600 is specially constructed to continuously perform, effectively expanding and contracting in all weathers to provide you with a guaranteed seal, and a longevity lasting 25 years+. This extra reassurance, coupled with our very competitive trade prices make Xpanda 600 easy work for the installer and will save your business money.

For those who have never considered using expanding foam tape, there are a list of benefits which will surprise you. To say installation is super quick and clean is obvious, there is no cutting out involved or cleaning up of cured aerosol foam. However you will be further impressed to learn that no matter how uneven your gaps appear, expanding foam will follow the contour of the block work creating a perfect seal around the frame (refer to above image). The seal is critical, an accidental over application of foam from a can will damage frames, it simply doesn’t move with the building and will blister and crack over time. Having a flexible seal ensures the thermal and acoustic benefits remain optimal! Thermal and acoustic?? Yes, the tape is impregnated with a number of ecologically responsible chemicals which not only deaden sound and create an amazing thermal barrier (fighting convection) the foam is also fire rated as B1, self-extinguishing.

The time of year of the installation can be critical to the thermal performance of the joint if the aperture has been filled with an aerosol expanding foam that sets hard. Gaps, no matter how small, will let the warmth out and the cold and the damp in, costing money every time the building has to be heated up to an acceptable temperature.

Xpanda 600 ensures a storm-proof seal! Rated to perform above 600pa, you can rest assured that Xpanda 600 will overcome the associated problems of contraction and expansion throughout the year without compromising the integrity of the joint, making Xpanda 600 the perfect partner between the frame and the aperture.

Passive houses are growing in popularity owing to the European influence and the demand for more efficient building practises which offer a significant financial pay-back over the life of the building.

Xpanda 600 has fast become an essential component for the constructors of modern buildings. It perfectly complements the air-tight tapes that have to be used in new building construction, giving you peace of mind and enhancing the quality of your window fit.

An Overview of Diffusion in Relation to Airtight Development and Building Design

Fri, 30 Oct 2015 09:50:08 GMT

Who needs to know about diffusion?

All those involved in the creation of airtight building envelopes, particularly developers, professional designers, specifiers and contractors should be equipped with some basic knowledge on diffusion. It is particularly relevant for those involved in large-scale projects. Confusing diffusion with convection could lead to costly construction errors, to the detriment of both occupant health and comfort as well as the environment. The purpose here is to shed light on the subject in a clear and concise way to avoid such undesirable consequences.

What is diffusion and what causes it?

Convection is a combination of advection and diffusion. Advection is the large-scale motion of a body, be it a gas or vapour, in currents due to air pressure differences whereas diffusion is just the small-scale movement of particles. In an airtight structure, insulation particles, mold spores and pollen will not be conveyed through it. If there is more vapour on one side of a solid material than on another it can diffuse through the surface until concentrations are the same on both sides and cause condensation. If it is present in the same concentration on both sides of a solid material, concentrations will remain equal and unchanged. Convection was explained further in an earlier post.

The principle of diffusion

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/12/Diffusion.svg/220px-Diffusion.svg.png

Where and when can diffusion processes occur?

Diffusion processes can occur in all areas of a structure’s envelope, particularly in its cavities, where gas or vapour moves from areas of high concentration to those of low concentration.

If the overall airtightness of a building is inadequate, more condensation can occur in building components due to moist air flows through roofs, ceilings and walls, than in areas where condensation is caused by diffusion alone.

Instances where diffusion (and condensation) may occur include where timber or insulation becomes damp due to flanking diffusion through a membrane or air leakage through convection.

Materials used in a building envelope are ineffective in controlling air infiltration and exfiltration due to cracks or their high permeance to air.

There is sheathing on unventilated flat, low slope roofs between insulation and an exterior membrane (such as watertight bitumen membrane and wood sheathing).

Why is understanding diffusion important in airtight building envelope design?

Diffusion is slow, so much so that the quantity of pollutants and moisture that travel through walls (and floors, and ceilings) caused by it is insignificant in contrast to that of air leakage caused by convection.

Typically 99% of the moisture and pollution travels through holes in the structure through convection and only 1% of the moisture and pollution travels because of diffusion.

By sealing all holes of a new airtight building, 99% airtightness is achieved. This highlights how important it is instead to seal gaps with joint sealing tape or expanding foam tape to minimise the negative impact of air leakage.

The significance of diffusion-v-air leakage (convection).

http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5342fef1e4b099c54d4ce33b/t/53614cfae4b0317988aeb9c0/1398885640135/humidity+diffusion

How can diffusion be retarded and the risk of condensation from it be minimised?

Diffusion retarder, or air-pressure retarder materials, can be used to combat condensation from diffusion. If a material only allows for a slow rate of diffusion, it is said to be a diffusion retarder.

Although diffusion ratings are different for different gases, a low perm rating for water vapour generally also means a low gas-diffusion rate.

An interior vapour barrier with a high resistance factor can be used or else low perm rated primers applied according to the situation.

Existing Construction

When used in an existing structure, a paint with a low perm rating is usually sufficient to minimise diffusion.

Many manufacturers have primers that function as diffusion retarders but one thing to watch out for is that they often contain styrene butadiene, also used in carpet backings, which is suspected of causing health problems.

However researchers have shown that the following do not count as air barrier materials without such primer coatings:

Asphalt impregnated felt (15 / 30 lb)
Batt or semi-rigid fibrous insulation
Cellulose spray-on insulation
Expanded polystyrene
Perforated house wraps
Plain or asphalt-impregnated fiberboard
Tongue and groove timber boards
Uncoated concrete block
Vermiculite insulation

However with a good air-pressure retarder, most ordinary paints with average perm ratings have a low enough rating to prevent most diffusion. As will be seen later low perm primers may not even be necessary at all. Instead joint sealing tape or expanding foam tape become the products to focus on.

New Construction

In new construction, several common materials function well as diffusion or air pressure retarders including asphalt-impregnated paper on fiberglass insulation, polyethylene sheeting and foil-backed drywall.

An air-pressure retarder should be as tight as possible because it is the primary line of defense at reducing moisture and pollutant transfer through walls. On the other hand as diffusion is such an insignificant factor, a diffusion retarder can be imperfect. If polyethylene sheeting is used as a diffusion retarder and standard drywall as an air pressure retarder, drywall should be sealed.

However It does not need to be sealed particularly tightly unless it is used as both a diffusion retarder and an air pressure retarder, when it should be securely taped and well sealed with joint sealing tape or expanding foam tape whereever there could be air movement through or around it.

Vapour diffusion of individual layers (insulation, plaster and the like) increases towards the outside when no air barrier is fitted.

As a rule of thumb outer layers should show up to 10 times greater vapour diffusion than inner layers.

Vapour barrier in construction (shown in blue)

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/64/BuildingSite.jpg/1024px-BuildingSite.jpg

It is worth noting that some experts believe that, if all gaps are sealed with appropriate tape, diffusion and perm ratings can even be ignored!

Note that when referring to air movement blocking the word barrier is being replaced with the word retarder. So, the more correct terminology and product to use to counter diffusion is an air retarder (or air flow retarder or air pressure retarder) and diffusion retarder rather than an air barrier, or the earlier air/moisture retarders and air/vapour retarders.

An Overview of Convection in Relation to Airtight Development and Building Design

Thu, 29 Oct 2015 15:19:46 GMT

W ho needs to know about convection?

All those involved in the creation of airtight building envelopes, particularly developers, professional designers and specifiers as well as contractors should be armed with some fundamental knowledge on convection. It is particularly relevant for those involved in large-scale projects where ignorance or misunderstanding on the issue could lead to repeated and costly construction errors, to the detriment of both occupant health and comfort and the environment. The purpose here is to shed light on the subject in a clear and concise manner to avoid such disastrous consequences.

What is convection and what causes it?

Differences between indoor and outdoor temperatures cause a pressure drop that creates an air current as they seek to equalize. This movement is known as convection. Convection leads to something undesirable known as ‘thermal bypass.’ More about this in a moment.

Convection is a combination of advection and diffusion. Advection is the large-scale motion of such a body in currents whereas diffusion is the small-scale movement of particles from areas of higher concentration to those of lower concentration. Diffusion will be explained more in a future post.

The cause of convection is often an inadequate airtightness layer around the building envelope, usually due to the lack of airtight detailing involving the use of joint sealing tape or expanding foam tape to close gaps.

Natural convection and forced convection

The pressure of convection on construction

http://www.greenspec.co.uk/images/web/materials/airtightness/airtightness2.jpg

Air currents can arise through either natural or forced convection.

Natural convection

N atural or ‘free’ convection results from pressure differences between one part of the building and another. Natural air movement can be either wind driven or buoyancy driven.

Wind driven air movement is caused by a difference in pressure between the inside and outside of the building caused by wind and is often referred to as ‘open loop’ convection.

Buoyancy driven air movement is caused by the tendency for warm air to expand, to become less dense and more buoyant, rising through the general air mass via the ‘stack effect.’ This is often termed ‘closed loop convection.’ Conversely cool air contracts, becoming denser, less buoyant and falling through the air mass. This creates circulating currents of rising and falling air.

Forced Convection

Forced convection occurs either where cold air moves along the surface of warmer material and at the surface the material temperature drops or where cold air penetrates the insulation, often due to poor function of the wind protection and airtightness. It can be driven by fans.

What is known as ‘wind washing’ can affect the thermal performance of low density insulation, short circuit the performance of insulating sheathing and cool down an air barrier system located towards the outside of a wall assembly, possibly below its dew point.

Thermal bypass

Air current or convection is a means of heat transportation or ‘thermal bypass’ and as warm air rises via the ‘stack effect’ it presses against a building envelope and uncontrollably escapes from it, unless both an air and wind tight building envelope is in place.

Concerns relating to ‘thermal bypass’ can have a significant influence upon the design of a residential and commercial developments.

Where can Convection processes occur?

In temperate climates, in highly insulated airtight buildings, there will be no internal draughts or convection currents. In less insulated and airtight buildings, there will inevitably be some convection as it is the result of poor jointing and inadequate sealing. If a building envelope is not airtight and lacking joint sealing tape or expanding foam tape, moist internal air can penetrate into the construction, condense and cause damage.

In hot, humid climates infiltration of humid external air can cause construction damage.

Convection can be noticeable above hot radiators where warm air rises, or next to windows where there may be a cold downdraught. These effects can be positively exploited at a larger scale in systems such as displacement ventilation, and through passive building design through the ‘stack effect’.

Convective heat transfer, or ‘thermal bypass’, typically occurs in hollow external walls, party walls and basements that are formed using multi-cell masonry and cavity construction.

Why is Convection important in airtight building envelope design?

The negative effect of convection with a 1mm joint.

Convective air movement in buildings is important to help moderate internal temperatures, reduce the accumulation of moisture, odours and gases that build up during occupied periods and improve occupant comfort.

Research indicates that convection results in 1600 times more moisture ingress than diffusion alone.

Air tightness is not an energy saving construction ‘add-on,’ it is essential to integrate airtight design, methods and techniques to avoid construction damage. Any gaps in the external building envelope will lead to substantial damage by convection and it is reported, allow up to 40% of heating energy to be lost.

The positive benefits of convection can therefore be cancelled by its negative effects if there is a lack of airtight design.

By way of example, in developing the design for a residential development of 25 PassivHaus standard homes at the Racecourse Estate, Sunderland, concerns relating to air movement within and through walls, otherwise known as ʻthermal bypass,ʼ were deemed to have had a significant influence upon the project.

How to mitigate the negative effects of Convection and capitalise on its positive benefits:

CFP Thermogram of a non airtight building in the background and airtight passive building in the foreground

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f2/Passivhaus_thermogram_gedaemmt_ungedaemmt.png

Accurately predicting the movement of air within building is possible and can require the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling software. The software simulates the flow of air from each cell to those surrounding them and the exchange of heat between the boundary surfaces and the cells adjacent to them.

Fluids can be used to transfer heat within a building by ‘mass transfer,’ for example by the flow of a refrigerant, chilled water or hot water to provide heating or cooling.

The negative effects of convection can also be mitigated and the positive benefits capitalised upon through rigorous airtight design as well as wind tight design. Academics conclude that all gaps and cracks should be avoided and the influence of good workmanship cannot be understated.

To create the airtight building envelope vapour control layers can be applied to the warm side of the insulation and overlaps and penetrations sealed with expanding foam tape and joint sealing tape without gaps.

These techniques ensure that moisture does not remain in insulation and diminish its function, cause mould or lose heating energy to the detriment of occupants’ health and their environment.