How Insulation & Spray Foam Contractors Cut Corners (And How To Protect Yourself)
Many Insulation Contractors Cut Corners, Causing Efficiency And Moisture Issues. This Article Reveals 9 Common Shortcuts And How To Avoid Them.
- Top 9 Ways Insulation Contractors Cut Corners
- 1. Improperly Storing or Mixing Spray Foam Chemicals
- 2. Inadequate Preparation Work
- 3. Installing Over Pre-Existing Moisture or Damage
- 4. Failing to Remove Old Insulation in Retrofits
- 5. Applying Spray Foam or Blown-In Insulation Too Thin
- 6. Not Sealing Gaps & Penetrations Properly
- 7. Using Untrained or Inexperienced Installers
- 8. Using Low-Quality or Expired Materials
- 9. Rushing Projects for Faster Turnaround
- How to Avoid These Issues
Many insulation contractors cut corners, causing efficiency and moisture issues. This article reveals 9 common shortcuts and how to avoid them. Protect your home—read now!
Top 9 Ways Insulation Contractors Cut Corners
1. Improperly Storing or Mixing Spray Foam Chemicals
Spray foam insulation consists of two chemicals that must be stored in a climate-controlled environment. Many contractors ignore this, leaving chemicals in garages, storage units, or trailers. When these chemicals go bad, they don’t cure properly, leading to structural and air quality issues in your home.
2. Inadequate Preparation Work
Prepping a home for insulation can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours, depending on the location of the attic access & attic’s condition. This includes taping, plastic covers, and other protective measures. Rushed or skipped prep work leads to attic dust entering the home, scratched floors, chipped walls, and potential damage to personal belongings.
3. Installing Over Pre-Existing Moisture or Damage
Attic mold, leaks, or structural damage must be addressed before insulation is installed. Some contractors either attempt amateur repairs themselves or ignore the problem altogether to avoid project delays & delayed final payments. This can lead to serious issues down the road, including mold growth and structural failures.
4. Failing to Remove Old Insulation in Retrofits
During peak season, many contractors stop offering insulation removal because it’s time-consuming and physically demanding. Instead, they either leave the old insulation in place and may ignore best practices for some projects. The reason for this is because contractors know they can perform 2-3 blown in or spray foam projects in the time it takes to complete one removal which is more profitable. Another common cut corner we see are contractors that only remove a portion of the old insulation, covering the rest with new material. This can lead to reduced efficiency, moisture retention and in some cases can even become dna.
5. Applying Spray Foam or Blown-In Insulation Too Thin
Some contractors apply extra insulation near the attic entrance to give the illusion of proper coverage while skimping on the rest. Others bend attic rulers to make insulation depth appear greater than it is. A reputable contractor ensures even, accurate application throughout the attic.
6. Not Sealing Gaps & Penetrations Properly
After removing old insulation, all gaps around attic components should be sealed with poly foam to prevent air leakage. Many contractors skip this step or use cheaper, ineffective materials, reducing the effectiveness of the new insulation.
7. Using Untrained or Inexperienced Installers
Spray foam application requires experience, precision, and resilience to work in extreme attic conditions. Many contractors cut costs by hiring undertrained workers, leading to improper installation and poor-quality results. A good company invests in skilled, well-compensated staff.
8. Using Low-Quality or Expired Materials
Cheap insulation and spray foam materials are widely available, but they don’t perform well or last as long. Some contractors even buy expired spray foam at a discount, compromising the integrity of the installation. The cost difference between low-quality and high-quality materials is minimal but makes a significant impact on longevity.
9. Rushing Projects for Faster Turnaround
Spray foam requires time to heat up before application—sometimes up to three hours in cold weather. Impatient contractors skip this step to squeeze in extra jobs, leading to improperly cured foam, weak adhesion, and long-term failures.
These shortcuts often go unnoticed until it’s too late, resulting in energy loss, moisture problems, or costly repairs down the line. A properly installed insulation system should improve comfort, reduce energy bills, and last for decades—so choosing the right contractor is essential.
How to Avoid These Issues
✅ Choose a contractor with a solid reputation, verified reviews, and industry experience.
✅ Ask detailed questions about their process, materials, and safety measures.
✅ Confirm who will perform the work and their level of experience.
✅ Ask about their standard operating procedures for handling unexpected issues.
✅ Ensure they remove old insulation and properly prepare surfaces before application.
✅ Verify they use high-quality materials and apply the proper thickness for your climate.
✅ Request photos and videos of your attic before, during, and after the project.
✅ Require proof of insurance before work begins.
By being informed and proactive, you can protect your home and investment from subpar insulation work. At Superior Attic, we take pride in doing the job right the first time—because cutting corners isn’t just bad business, it’s bad for homeowners.
