CAUSES OF SPRAY FOAM INSULATION DAMAGE YOUR PROPERTY
If spray foam insulation is incorrectly applied to your property’s roof, it could well cause a problem with moisture retention within your timber, leading to further complications that may well need professional repair.
Porous spray foam insulation (Open Cell) is designed to allow for the passage of air, however, the foam itself can act a bit like a sponge, absorbing moisture and then holding it against the timber it was designed to protect.
Non-porous foam (Closed Cell) however does not allow for airflow, and any moisture that comes into contact with the foam will sit on top and be held against the timber by the foam, again causing a potential moisture problem in the timber.
Both of these examples are problems, the only difference is the method through which the spray foam insulation causes moisture to enter your property’s timber.
So, if improperly applied or bonded, spray foam insulation can cause timber to absorb and retain moisture, leading to issues such as dry and wet rot, which can spread easily and ruin your timber.
Reducing the ventilation capacity of a roof can also heighten the risk of condensation building up within the roof void, causing an attic to develop potential damp and mould issues in the future.


HOW DO YOU KNOW SPRAY FOAM INSULATION IS HARMING FOR YOUR PROPERTY?
Because spray foam insulation is typically applied in areas like lofts or roof voids, spaces we rarely inspect, it’s easy for problems to go unnoticed. In fact, one of the biggest spray foam insulation risks in UK homes is that issues can develop behind the insulation, out of sight and out of mind.
Even if you were to inspect your loft in detail, it’s often impossible to see what’s happening beneath the foam. This makes it very difficult to identify early signs of deterioration or moisture damage without a professional inspection.
For example, timber decay under spray foam, concealed leaks, or degraded roof materials may be hidden entirely. Moisture can become trapped, potentially leading to serious issues like dry rot, woodworm, or mould, problems that can compromise your roof's integrity and reduce your property’s value.
Many UK homeowners are unaware that roof spray foam mortgage issues are now common, with numerous lenders refusing loans due to the presence of foam. That’s why a Chartered Surveyor spray foam report, prepared by RICS-qualified experts, is essential for buyers, sellers, or anyone considering installation or removal.
If you’ve noticed increased condensation, signs of decay, or just want peace of mind, it’s best to get an independent property defect report. At AMS SURVEYS, our RICS spray foam insulation surveys UK offer accurate, impartial advice, including guidance on removal and lender compliance.
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