If you’re considering foam insulation for your row home, there are a few factors you may not have considered that could impact your project.
From parking restrictions to potential road closures, these challenges can affect how and when your insulation is installed.
Let’s dive into what you need to know about insulating a row home, including how common walls play a role and what steps you should take to ensure a smooth installation process.
What is a Row Home?
For those unfamiliar with the term, a row home refers to a series of homes that are either built very closely together or share common walls with neighboring properties.
This architectural style is popular in urban areas and offers efficient use of space.
While row homes provide a sense of community and maximize available land, they can also present unique challenges when it comes to home improvement projects – particularly insulation installation.
Parking and Road Closures: What to Expect
The layout of many cities with row houses lends itself to some difficulties when installing foam insulation.
Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Limited Parking and Accessibility
One of the biggest considerations for row home insulation projects is the accessibility of the work site.
Because these homes are often closely spaced, finding adequate parking for the installation crew’s truck and trailer can be difficult.
If your row home is not at the end of a block or lacks easy street access, the crew may not be able to park directly in front of your home. Since foam installation equipment relies on hoses that must reach the walls being insulated, this could become a problem.
When a Road Closure is Necessary
If parking is unavailable or too far from the home, the contractor may need to request a temporary road closure to allow for proper access.
In many cases, this requires obtaining a permit from the city.
Before scheduling your insulation project, discuss with your contractor whether a street closure is necessary and who will be responsible for obtaining permits.
Alternative Parking Solutions on the Day of Install
If a street closure isn’t possible on the day of the foam insulation installation, another option is available, and it's something to keep in mind.
Utilizing a Back Alley for Parking
Some row homes have back alleys that may provide an alternative parking spot for the insulation crew.
If space allows, the truck and trailer can be parked here to avoid closing a main road. However, not all back alleys are wide enough to accommodate large vehicles, so this should be evaluated before installation day.
Understanding Hose Length Limitations
RetroFoam installation crews generally have about 300 feet of hose, while spray foam crews typically have 250 feet.
Some contractors may have additional hose lengths available, but parking as close as possible to your home remains the best way to ensure a seamless installation.
Common Walls: Keeping Your Neighbor in the Loop
Since row homes share common walls, it’s crucial to communicate with your neighbors before beginning an insulation project.
Drilling and installing foam can create noise and vibrations that may be felt in adjacent homes.
A simple conversation with your neighbors ahead of time can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth process. Let them know what to expect, including the potential for loud noises and minor wall vibrations.
Ready to Insulate Your Row Home?
Now that you understand the potential challenges and solutions for insulating your row home, you can confidently plan your project.
For expert foam insulation services, visit our Find a Dealer page to connect with a qualified RetroFoam dealer near you.
Key Points:
- What is a row home? A home that is part of a connected series of houses sharing common walls.
- Parking challenges may require alternative solutions, such as using a back alley or obtaining a road closure permit.
- RetroFoam installation hoses can reach up to 300 feet, while spray foam insulation hoses are typically 250 feet.
- Common walls mean noise and vibrations may affect your neighbors, so it’s best to inform them ahead of time.
- Talk to your contractor to determine if you need to apply for a street closure permit.
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