Spray foam is excellent for many jobs and the wrong choice for some. Here's the balanced view, without the sales gloss.
Pros
- Air-seals and insulates in one step - the big one, especially in a cold, windy climate.
- High R per inch (closed-cell R-6-7) and holds it long-term (LTTR).
- Moisture control - closed-cell resists water and acts as a vapour barrier.
- Longevity - lasts the life of the building; doesn't settle.
- Adds rigidity and fills irregular spaces batt can't.
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than batt or blown-in.
- Professional install required - not a DIY job; quality depends entirely on the installer.
- Curing window - needs ventilation and re-occupancy time.
- Hard to remove later if a renovation needs the cavity opened.
The verdict
Worth the premium where its strengths matter (basements, rim joists, metal, air-sealing); overkill where a cheaper option does the job. That's the honest call - see when not to use it and is it worth it.
Thinking about spray foam? Get a free quote from a vetted Alberta installer.