One of the easiest materials you can apply for insulation is using foam board insulation. This type of insulation usually comes with a higher R-value. Foam board insulation is moisture-resistant and easy to install. During the installation, usually people would like to give color to the foam board.
People often wonder, can you paint foam board insulation? Here, we will talk about can insulation boards be painted, can you paint polystyrene foam board insulation, and what are the best paints for spray foam insulation.
Can You Paint Over Foam Board Insulation?
The good news is that foam board insulation can be painted. The foam board insulation doesn’t need to be sanded before painting, but you need to make sure that the surface is completely dried beforehand.
Use only water-based acrylic or latex paint because if you use any oil-based or solvent-based paints, the foam board insulation may be damaged. It’s essential to allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Read also: How to Install Rigid Foam Insulation under Metal Roof?
To start painting your foam insulation, use a stiff brush to ensure that the paint is evenly distributed throughout the pores, including the edges of the foam. You can apply a two to three-layer coat of paint on the foam board insulation.
After that, you can protect the paint with wax sealant, which prevents the paint from peeling and guards against mold and mildew.
Can You Paint Polystyrene Foam Board Insulation? What are the Difference
There are two types of polystyrene foam board. The first one is an expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam board. This material is similar to the material for making your disposable coffee cup. It is the cheapest type of polystyrene foam board. The EPS is usually applied in the construction of siding, foundation walls, and roofs. The second one is extruded polystyrene.
This type of foam board is thicker than the EPS, and also has a higher R-value. If you are planning on painting the extruded polystyrene foam board insulation, it is not recommended to use just any spray paint. You need to pay attention to the content of your spray paint. Usually, spray paint contains enamel that could corrode and melt your polystyrene foam board insulation.
Best Paint for Spray Foam Insulation
Not only a rigid board, spray foam insulation is also used often in any house. Spray foam insulation is becoming increasingly common. It allows individuals who choose to have it installed to save money on their energy costs in a variety of ways. Unfortunately, one of the weaknesses of spray foam insulation is the aesthetics and appearance after installation.
Therefore, many people find ways to enhance their house’s look by painting the spray foam insulation. In painting the spray foam insulation, you need to use a latex paint or water-based acrylic paint. There are, however, some paints and varnishes made specifically for spray foam insulation.
Read also: Do Interior Walls Need Insulation?
When considering painting foam board insulation, it’s important to choose the right type of paint to avoid any chemical reactions that could damage the foam.
Products like Rust-Oleum are often recommended for their compatibility with foam materials. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the paint adheres well and does not cause any adverse reactions.
In conclusion, the answer to ‘can you paint foam board insulation?’ is, yes, you can. What you need to pay attention to is what type of insulation you use, the surface of your insulation before you paint, and most importantly the type of paint you use.
