When it comes to improving the energy efficiency and comfort of older homes in Louisiana, few upgrades make a bigger impact than spray foam insulation. At RM Laplace Insulation, we specialize in retrofitting insulation systems for homes throughout New Orleans, Metairie, and Kenner—and one of the most common questions we get is whether spray foam is worth the investment for older structures. The short answer: absolutely. But let’s take a deeper look at why retrofit spray foam might be the smartest move you can make for your home.
The Unique Challenges of Older Louisiana Homes
Historic and aging homes in our region come with a unique blend of charm—and challenges. Many were built long before modern building codes and energy efficiency standards. It’s common to find little or no insulation in the walls, air gaps around windows and doors, and moisture issues in crawl spaces and attics.
These conditions make homes harder to heat and cool, especially with Louisiana’s humid climate. As a result, homeowners often face higher energy bills, inconsistent indoor temperatures, and mold or mildew issues caused by excess moisture.
That’s where retrofit spray foam insulation comes in. Unlike traditional materials, spray foam isn’t just about R-value—it also acts as a powerful air and moisture barrier, which is critical for our climate.
What Makes Spray Foam Ideal for Retrofits?
There are two types of spray foam: open-cell and closed-cell. Both can be used in retrofit applications, but they offer different advantages depending on the part of the house and the specific problem you’re solving.
- Open-cell spray foam is softer and expands more, making it ideal for filling wall cavities and sealing irregular spaces. It’s great for soundproofing and has excellent expansion properties that help it reach every corner of an older wall or attic.
- Closed-cell spray foam is denser and provides a higher R-value per inch. It also adds structural strength, which can be beneficial in homes with older framing or in areas prone to flooding. It’s highly resistant to water, making it ideal for crawl spaces, basements, and exterior walls.
When applied by professionals like us, spray foam insulation creates an airtight seal that dramatically reduces energy loss and improves indoor air quality.
A Cleaner Install Than You’d Expect
One of the biggest concerns we hear from homeowners is whether installing spray foam in an existing home will be messy or disruptive. The good news is that retrofit insulation is more efficient and less invasive than you might think.
We can install spray foam by accessing wall cavities from the attic, crawl space, or small entry points, minimizing the need for major demolition. For attics and crawl spaces, we apply the foam directly to the roofline or subfloor, creating a thermal envelope that locks in comfort year-round.
At RM Laplace Insulation, we take care to work cleanly and efficiently, with minimal disruption to your daily life.
Energy Savings That Make a Difference
For older homes that leak air through every crack and seam, the improvement in comfort and efficiency after a spray foam retrofit is noticeable almost immediately. Homeowners report:
- More consistent temperatures between rooms
- Less humidity indoors
- Lower energy bills (often by 20-40%)
- Reduced HVAC wear and tear
All of these benefits not only make your home more comfortable—they also protect your investment and can increase resale value.
In a region like ours, where heat and humidity are constant battles, having the right insulation in New Orleans is not just a bonus—it’s essential.
Retrofit Spray Foam vs. Traditional Options
While materials like fiberglass and cellulose still have their place in the insulation world, they simply don’t match the performance of spray foam when it comes to sealing air leaks. In retrofit situations, traditional materials often require removing drywall or creating large openings, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Spray foam, on the other hand, allows us to upgrade your insulation without gutting your home. That makes it both cost-effective and less disruptive.
Invest in Comfort, Efficiency, and Peace of Mind
If you’re living in an older home and struggling with high energy bills or indoor comfort, retrofit spray foam insulation might be the smartest upgrade you can make. At RM Laplace Insulation, we’ve helped homeowners all across New Orleans, Kenner, and Metairie modernize their homes with high-performance, energy-saving solutions that last.
Ready to make your older home feel like new again? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how insulation in New Orleans can transform your home from the inside out.