Here is a list of our most frequently asked questions. If you need more information before purchasing or can’t find an answer to your question feel free to contact us by visiting our contact page.
General FAQ
Will encapsulation eliminate mold and musty odors
Encapsulation can reduce moisture entering from the soil and outdoors, which may improve conditions associated with musty odors. It does not guarantee that mold will disappear or correct active leaks, contaminated materials, drainage failures or HVAC problems. Those conditions should be identified and addressed as part of the overall plan.
How much does crawl-space encapsulation cost
Cost depends on crawl-space size and height, access, removal needs, membrane type, foundation surface, number of piers and penetrations, spray-foam area, water conditions and whether an access door or dehumidifier is included. Attis provides a free on-site estimate with a written project scope.
What to expect when dealing with Insulation Contractor for existing properties
What to expect
| Step | What happens |
| 1. Conversation | Tell us what you are noticing, which areas are involved and how the building is used. |
| 2. Assessment | We review accessible insulation, performance, air-leakage pathways, moisture indicators and project constraints. |
| 3. Scope | You receive a recommendation identifying the proposed material, area, preparation and exclusions. |
| 4. Installation/Job | The crew protects work areas, completes the agreed installation, and manages site conditions. |
| 5. Review | We clean the work area and inspect/review the completed scope and any follow-up considerations. |
How do I request an estimate
Call or text Attis Insulation at 570-534-4545 or use the website contac form. Share the property address, areas of concern and any photos or known moisture history so the visit can be prepared efficiently.
Can insulation work be completed during winter
Many insulation projects can be completed year-round, but product requirements, substrate temperature, ventilation, and jobsite conditions can affect scheduling—especially for spray foam. The project should be evaluated before a date is promised.
Do I need a building permit or HOA approval
It depends on the project and property. Confirm the municipality for the address and ask its building code office about permits. If the home is in a private community, check that association’s current approval process separately.
Does old attic insulation always need to be removed
No. Removal may be justified when insulation is wet, contaminated, pest-damaged, or preventing needed air sealing and repairs. Material in serviceable condition may sometimes remain and be supplemented.
Will crawl-space encapruslation or insulation fix cold floors or musty odors
It can be part of the solution, but moisture and air movement must also be addressed. Ground vapor, drainage, foundation conditions, ductwork and existing water entry should be evaluated before choosing an insulation or encapsulation scope.
Should I choose spray foam or fiberglass
Spray foam can combine insulation and air control in a compact application. Fiberglass is cost-effective and flexible for many open attics and framed cavities. The safest recommendation comes after reviewing the location, substrate, ventilation, moisture and code requirements.
Does closed cell spray foam cause roof rot if there’s a leak
Great question—and a common concern. Closed-cell spray foam doesn’t absorb water, so it won’t hold moisture against the wood or let it spread through your attic.
If a roof leak does happen, the foam can make it a bit less obvious at first since it’s bonded directly to the roof deck. But it doesn’t cause rot—wood rot only develops when moisture sits for a long time without being addressed.
As long as your roof is in good condition before installation and any future leaks are caught and fixed in a timely manner, closed-cell foam is a safe and reliable option for finishing an attic space.
What’s the Minimum Thickness Closed-Cell Spray Foam Can Be Installed At
When it comes to closed-cell spray foam insulation, thickness matters—not just for energy efficiency, but also for air sealing and moisture protection.
While some data sheets say 1 inch of closed-cell foam can act as a vapor retarder and give you a decent R-value (around R-7), that doesn’t mean it’s fully doing the job of a moisture or air barrier.
Here’s what third-party product testing and evaluation reports say:
- 1.5 to 2 inches of closed-cell spray foam is typically needed to qualify as a Class II vapor retarder
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2 inches or more is for efficient moisture control and full performance
Just applying a thin layer—or “flashing”—doesn’t mean your building is sealed from air or moisture. For closed-cell foam to truly work as intended, it needs the right thickness.
Can I just insulate without air sealing
Simply adding insulation isn’t going to address any air leakage. A properly air-sealed attic floor, top plates and rim joist prevent this unwanted airflow, making your insulation far more effective. Together, air sealing and insulation will help your home maintain the desired temperature for longer periods — cutting energy costs and improving indoor health and comfort.
What is Air Sealing
Air sealing is the process of closing off any gaps, cracks, seams, or holes in your home’s exterior shell — often called the “building envelope.” Whether you’re trying to keep out winter’s chill or summer’s heat, sealing these openings is the first line of defense in protecting your home from the elements.
Closed Cell Spray Foam vs. Open Cell Spray Foam
Closed Cell Spray foam is about 4 times more dense than the Open Cell Spray Foam. On top of the benefits that spray Foam insulation provides Closed Cell Spray Foam is also a vapor, moisture, and rodent barrier. Open Cell is not suitable for every installation due to its inability to stop moisture and the R-value that matches most conventional fiberglass insulation solutions. Due to it’s density, Closed Cell Spry Foam also carries a lot of “Wracking Strength” that promotes and reinforces the structural stability of the whole structure that is insulation with Closed Cell.
In this great article by Mason Knowles, published on Feb 22, 2018 by Spray Foam Magazine. The author explores the results of a field study and Closed Cell Spray Foam structural support and resilience substantiated by lab tests. https://www.sprayfoammagazine.com/foam-news/trying-to-reason-with-hurricane-season/3215
In this great article by Mason Knowles, published on Feb 22, 2018 by Spray Foam Magazine. The author explores the results of a field study and Closed Cell Spray Foam structural support and resilience substantiated by lab tests.
From <https://www.sprayfoammagazine.com/foam-news/trying-to-reason-with-hurricane-season/3215>
Can I install Loose Fill insulation by hand? Is loose fill insulation a diy project?
Loose-fill insulation should not be done as a DIY project for many reasons; here are a few:
You shouldn’t install loose fill by hand; the material has to be conditioned in a specially designed BLOWER machine that breaks and agitates the insulation.
- The material from the Blower machine must pass a corrugated hose, which continues the material conditioning process.
- If material is not properly conditioned and installed, you lose on: R-value, yield, and energy. You can also inadvertently introduce a major moisture issue to your home.