Spray foam insulation being applied in an Irish home

Spray Foam Insulation
in Ireland

Seamless, airtight insulation that lasts 50+ years. Get matched with an experienced local installer and receive a free, no-obligation quote.

Get Free Quotes

Why Choose Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam is one of the most effective insulation materials you can get. It expands on contact to seal every gap and crack, creating an airtight thermal barrier that traditional roll or board insulation simply can't match. It's especially effective for awkward spaces, rafter-level insulation, and older homes with irregular structures.

Seamless Coverage

Spray foam expands on contact to fill every gap, crack, and hard-to-reach corner. Unlike rolls or boards, it creates an airtight seal with no joints or seams.

Open Cell vs Closed Cell

Two types to suit different applications. Open cell is lighter and breathable, ideal for attics. Closed cell is denser and acts as a moisture barrier, better for walls and basements.

Attic & Wall Applications

Spray foam works in attics (applied to rafters or between joists), wall cavities, and even basements. It's versatile enough for most insulation challenges.

Long Lifespan

Spray foam insulation lasts 50+ years without settling, sagging, or losing its thermal performance. Once installed, it's effectively a permanent upgrade.

Open Cell vs Closed Cell Spray Foam

The two types of spray foam serve different purposes. Understanding the difference helps you make the right choice for your home.

Property Open Cell Closed Cell
R-value per inch R-3.7 R-6.5
Density Light & flexible Dense & rigid
Moisture barrier No. Vapour permeable Yes. Acts as vapour barrier
Best for Attics, interior walls Walls, basements, exposed areas
Cost Lower Higher
Removable for inspection Yes. Can be peeled away Difficult to remove

Spray Foam Insulation Costs in Ireland

Spray foam is more expensive than traditional insulation materials, but its superior performance and longevity can justify the investment. Prices depend on the type (open vs closed cell), area, and application.

Application Typical Cost
Attic (open cell) €1,500 – €3,000
Attic (closed cell) €2,500 – €5,000
Wall cavity spray foam €2,000 – €4,000
Full house spray foam €5,000 – €10,000

Important: Mortgage Lending Considerations

Some mortgage lenders in Ireland have raised concerns about spray foam insulation, particularly closed cell foam applied directly to roof rafters. The issue is that it can make timber inspection difficult during property surveys. This doesn't mean spray foam is problematic, but if you're planning to sell your home in future, it's worth discussing with your installer. Open cell foam applied to rafters is generally less of a concern as it can be removed for inspection. Foam applied to attic floors or wall cavities does not typically raise these issues.

Prices are estimates based on typical Irish installations in 2026. Actual costs depend on area, foam type, thickness, and access. SEAI grants of up to €2,000 may apply for eligible attic insulation work. Request a quote for an accurate price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between open cell and closed cell spray foam?
Open cell spray foam is softer, lighter, and more affordable. It has an R-value of about 3.7 per inch and is breathable, making it ideal for attic rafters where moisture vapour needs to escape. Closed cell foam is denser, stronger, and has a higher R-value of about 6.5 per inch. It also acts as a moisture and air barrier, making it suitable for walls, basements, and areas exposed to moisture. Your installer can recommend the right type for your application.
Will spray foam insulation affect my mortgage?
This is an important consideration. Some mortgage lenders in Ireland have flagged spray foam insulation, particularly when applied directly to roof rafters, as a concern during property surveys. The issue is that spray foam can make it difficult to inspect the timber condition underneath. If you're planning to sell in future, open cell foam is generally viewed more favourably than closed cell in attic applications because it can be removed for inspection if needed. Discuss this with your installer before proceeding.
Is spray foam better than mineral wool for attic insulation?
Both are effective but suit different situations. Mineral wool (rolls or batts) is cheaper and works well for standard attic floor insulation where you're not converting the attic space. Spray foam is better when insulating at rafter level (for room-in-roof conversions), when you need an airtight seal, or when access makes roll insulation difficult to install properly. Spray foam also lasts longer without maintenance.
Can spray foam cause condensation problems?
When specified and installed correctly, spray foam should not cause condensation. Open cell foam is vapour-permeable, allowing moisture to pass through and ventilate naturally. Closed cell foam acts as a vapour barrier, preventing moisture from reaching cold surfaces. Problems occur when the wrong type is used for the application or when ventilation isn't properly considered. A knowledgeable installer will assess your property and recommend the correct specification.
Are SEAI grants available for spray foam insulation?
SEAI grants are available for attic insulation regardless of the material used, as long as the work meets the required U-value standards and is carried out by a registered contractor. The grant amounts are the same as for other insulation types, up to €2,000 for attic insulation (up to €2,500 for first-time buyers and qualifying welfare recipients). The grant is based on the area insulated and the property type, not the insulation method. Your installer can confirm eligibility when quoting.

Get Your Free Spray Foam Insulation Quote

Tell us about your home and we'll match you with an experienced local installer. No obligation, no cost. Just a straightforward quote.

Get Free Quotes

Free · No obligation · Takes 30 seconds