I’m planning on using Icynene in our new home but continue to be nervous about possible future problems with carpenter ant infestation, even though the Icynene folks and installer have told me they’ve not heard of problems with ants. But to play it safe, I decided to spray as much of the framing as I can get to with Boracare before insulating, figuring that it will help retard mold growth on the wood as well. However, on the walls where I’ve already sprayed, a slightly powdery residue is left after the solution dries, and I’ve now traded the concern over insects with the concern about whether or not this residue will keep the Icynene from sticking properly.
Since the airsealing quality of Icynene is its most valuable feature, I certainly don’t want to compromise this just to deter insects that may not even show up. Would greatly appreciate getting some feedback on this before I apply any more Boracare!
Donna
Replies
I just did the same thing and after the boric solution dried I did not see much of a residue, in my case, but anyway, after watching the Icynene guys work and how incredibly sticky that stuff was, I think you've got nothing to worry about.
Remember that the adhesion of the Icynene to the sheething is not so much important as the fact that it completely fills up the cavity when it expands. I think that even if you lined the cavity with Vaseline you'd still find the Icynene pretty well stuck in the bay by mechanical means, and even if you could remove the insulation in one piece by total failure of the 'adhesion' you'd still be insulated because the drywall would hold it right where it belongs.
When in doubt, you should check with your insulation installer.
Good luck, keep the ant-friendly parts (anything not made of cement) of your house 18"minimum above grade and flash well and then don't worry about it any more.
:o)