Why Shouldn’t You Spray Foam Your Roof?
Spray foam insulation was once sold as a modern fix for draughty lofts and rising energy bills. But over time, it's become one of the most controversial additions you can make to your home. If you're thinking of using it in your roof — or already have — it's important to understand the real risks involved.
At Countrywide Roofing and Insulation, we've worked with hundreds of homeowners across the UK who are now paying the price for spray foam. From mortgage refusals to damp-related damage, the fallout can be significant. Here's what you need to know — and why spray foam removal is becoming a necessity for many.
1. It Can Make Your Home Unmortgageable
This is one of the most damaging — and least known — consequences of spray foam insulation.
Many UK lenders now refuse to approve mortgages or remortgages on properties where spray foam has been applied in the loft. Why? Because it blocks access to the roof timbers, making it difficult or impossible for surveyors to assess their condition. If they can't inspect the structure, lenders often won't take the risk.
🔍 Stat: According to the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA), around 80% of homes with spray foam insulation are flagged as high risk by surveyors — making mortgage approval far less likely.
If you're thinking of selling your home or borrowing against it in future, having spray foam installed could cause major headaches — or grind the process to a halt.
2. It Can Trap Moisture and Cause Hidden Rot
Spray foam doesn't just seal in heat — it can seal in moisture, too. This is especially true of closed cell spray foam, which forms a hard, impermeable layer. If any damp gets into your loft space — and over time, it usually does — it can become trapped against the wooden beams.
The result? Timber decay, mould growth, and in extreme cases, serious structural damage. And because the foam conceals the issue, you might not notice until the damage is extensive.
Even open cell spray foam, which is more breathable, still hides the roof's framework — making it difficult to spot problems until it's too late.
🔍 Stat: Industry figures show that 1 in 4 homes with spray foam insulation develop damp or timber issues within three years of installation.
3. Surveyors Can't See What's Going On
If your roof's been coated with spray foam, a surveyor can't inspect the condition of the timbers. That's a major issue for mortgage lenders, insurers, and buyers — who all rely on accurate reports to make decisions.
We often speak with sellers whose property sales have collapsed at the survey stage, simply because the buyer's lender refused to proceed with spray foam in place.
It's not just about what spray foam does — it's about what it hides.
4. Removing Spray Foam Is Often the Only Way Forward
Spray foam isn't easy to remove — especially closed cell spray foam, which bonds tightly to rafters and roofing felt. But in many cases, removal is the only way to restore your home's mortgageability and resale value.
At Countrywide Roofing and Insulation, we're specialists in both open cell spray foam removal and closed cell spray foam removal. We remove insulation safely, carefully, and without causing further damage to your roof structure — helping you get your property back to its best.
Like Wrapping Your Roof in Plastic
Think of your roof like your skin. It needs to breathe — to let moisture out and maintain balance. Now imagine wrapping your whole body in cling film to keep yourself warm. Sure, it might trap some heat, but before long, you'd be sweaty, uncomfortable, and potentially at risk. That's what spray foam can do to your loft — block ventilation and create bigger problems down the line.
5. The Energy Savings Aren't Worth the Trouble
One of the main selling points of spray foam is better insulation and lower energy bills. But the reality is that the savings are often marginal — and far outweighed by the issues that follow.
In some cases, spray foam voids roof warranties or causes damage that needs costly repairs. Many homeowners who were promised performance are left dealing with long-term problems instead.
What To Do If You Already Have Spray Foam Insulation
If you've already had spray foam installed, don't panic — but it's important to act quickly. Ignoring the issue won't make it go away, and the longer it's left, the greater the potential damage.
Here's what we recommend:
Arrange a professional inspection – We can identify the type of spray foam and assess whether any damage has already occurred.
Get a tailored removal quote – We'll give you a clear, no-obligation quote for safe and efficient removal.
Restore proper ventilation – After removal, we can help you re-insulate your roof with safer, breathable alternatives that keep your home compliant and protected.
FAQs: Spray Foam Roof Insulation
No, it's not illegal — but it's widely discouraged. Many lenders, insurers, and surveyors view it as a serious risk, particularly when applied to roofs.
What's the difference between open and closed cell spray foam?
Open cell foam is lighter and more breathable, while closed cell foam is rigid and forms a vapour barrier. Both can cause problems when used in lofts.
Can I sell my house with spray foam in the roof?
You might struggle. Many property sales fall through when spray foam is discovered, and most lenders will insist it's removed before proceeding.
How long does spray foam removal take?
It depends on the size of the loft and the type of foam used. Most jobs are completed within 2–5 days.
Is spray foam removal expensive?
Costs vary, but we offer competitive rates and free surveys. Compared to the potential impact on your home's value, removal is often well worth it.
Final Thoughts
At Countrywide Roofing and Insulation, we're here to help. Whether you need advice, an inspection, or full spray foam removal, our expert team is ready to support you every step of the way.
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