Insulation FAQs | Duerst Insulation Technicians | Madison, WI

What’s the difference between spray foam, cellulose, and fiberglass?
Spray Foam: Highest R-value, excellent air seal, best performance

Cellulose: Eco-friendly, dense-packed, good for sound control

Fiberglass: Cost-effective, common in older homes but less efficient at air sealing
What's the most environmentally friendly spray foam?
We use HFO closed-cell spray foam, the most environmentally friendly spray foam available today. This advanced insulation not only supports a lower carbon footprint, but also delivers the highest R-value in the industry, according to the Interactive Energy Group.

R-value measures an insulation material's ability to resist heat flow—the higher the R-value, the better the energy performance. With superior thermal resistance and sustainable formulation, our spray foam solutions provide long-term comfort, efficiency, and environmental responsibility.

This dedication to performance and sustainability is what sets us apart as a leading spray foam insulation provider in Madison, WI, and the surrounding areas.
Can interior walls and ceilings be spray foamed to reduce sound transfer?
Open-cell spray foam has a soft, spongy structure that absorbs airborne sound (like voices, music, and television), making it a great option for interior walls and ceilings where noise control is a priority.

It also seals air gaps, which prevents sound from traveling through cracks or crevices—an often-overlooked source of noise transfer.
Is blown-in cellulose cheaper than fiberglass?
While cellulose may cost slightly more upfront than fiberglass, it often delivers better performance and value over time—especially for attic and dense-packed wall applications. For homeowners looking to maximize energy efficiency, cellulose is often the better investment.

Is spray foam or blown-in insulation better?
Spray foam is the premium option—it offers superior insulation, air sealing, and durability, but comes at a higher cost.

Blown-in cellulose or fiberglass is a budget-friendly solution that performs well when paired with proper air sealing.

If your budget allows and you’re doing a full remodel or new construction, spray foam gives you the highest efficiency. For attic retrofits or cost-sensitive projects, blown-in insulation offers great value—especially when combined with air sealing.
What's the advantage of cellulose insulation?
Cellulose insulation offers a powerful combination of performance, sustainability, and affordability. It’s an excellent choice for homeowners who want to improve comfort, reduce energy costs, and minimize their environmental footprint—without breaking the bank.
Will spray foaming my box sills keep rodents out?
Spray foaming your box sills is an excellent step for energy efficiency and air sealing, and it can discourage rodents—but it's not a complete defense on its own. For best results, pair spray foam with mechanical pest barriers and a full perimeter inspection.
Can you insulate walls without removing drywall?
Yes—you can insulate walls without tearing out drywall, using blown-in or injection insulation methods. It’s a cost-effective, minimally invasive solution to upgrade your home’s energy efficiency without the mess of full renovation.

What's the advantage of concrete lifting versus mud jacking?
Concrete lifting with polyurethane foam is the modern, longer-lasting alternative to mudjacking. It offers faster results, greater precision, and less chance of resettling—making it ideal for residential sidewalks, patios, driveways, and garage floors.
How long will my concrete lifting last?
With polyurethane foam lifting and good site conditions, you can expect your lifted concrete to last 15–20+ years with minimal maintenance. It’s a long-term, cost-effective solution compared to full replacement or repeated mudjacking.
Will foam lifting or mudjacking fix cracks in my concrete?
Both methods lift and level sunken concrete, but they do not “repair” existing cracks in the surface. However, leveling the slab often reduces further cracking by restoring even support.

After lifting, it's strongly recommended to seal cracks and expansion joints to prevent water infiltration, which is a major cause of future settling. Some contractors offer crack repair as part of the service.
Can I lift concrete during winter or cold weather?
Yes—with foam lifting, work can often be done in colder temperatures since polyurethane cures chemically and isn’t affected by freezing.

Mudjacking, on the other hand, typically requires warmer conditions because the water-based cement slurry can freeze, expand, or cure improperly in cold weather.

If you’re planning concrete repair in late fall or winter, foam lifting is the better choice.
How do I know if my concrete is a good candidate for lifting?
Concrete lifting is ideal for slabs that are sunken, uneven, or tilted—but still structurally sound. If the slab is severely cracked, crumbling, or deteriorated, replacement may be the only option.
Good candidates include:

Driveways, sidewalks, patios

Garage and basement floors

Pool decks and steps

A contractor can evaluate the slab’s condition and soil stability during a site inspection to determine the best course of action.