PODCAST: Spray Foam Reality—Performance Path vs. Prescriptive Path

In this latest podcast of If Walls Could Talk, PUR Consulting’s Thomas Harris chats about the performance path vs. prescriptive path as it relates to spray foam.

In previous podcasts, we’ve talked about some of the product myths and we’ve touched on vapor control layers and the role different spray foam materials play in providing an inherent vapor control layer. Open cell foams are vapor permeable, while closed cell foams are vapor impermeable—a Class II vapor retarder.

Contractors often use the various performance path options to downgrade the thermal insulation package in exchange for various upgrades within the building envelope or the entire energy performance of the structure.

Section R406 of the 2015 IECC is entitled “Energy Rating Index Compliance Alternative” and it allows for non-prescriptive code compliant construction – like less R-value in the thermal envelope provided the entire structure is better than the reference standard.

The reference standard is the 2015 IECC uses the 2009 IECC performance standard as a comparative reference.

KEYWORDS: moisture spray foam

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John Wyatt is editor of Walls & Ceilings magazine, bringing more than two decades of experience with BNP Media. He joined the company in 2000 as an associate editor, contributing to both Walls & Ceilings and Roofing Contractor before assuming the role of editor in 2008. In addition to his work with the brand, Wyatt collaborates across BNP’s architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C) portfolio, supporting related publications and initiatives. He can be reached at 248-205-6659 or wyattj@bnpmedia.com.

Tom Harris is president of Tom Harris PUR Consulting LLC. He has more than 35 years of polyurethane foam development and deployment experience ranging from Development Chemist, Product and Marketing Management, Business Development and Building Science in Canada and the United States. He can be reached at tom@letstalkpur.com.