What Is Spray Foam Removal?
Spray foam removal is the process of safely extracting foam insulation from your home, most often from lofts. While spray foam was once marketed as a high-performance insulation, UK homeowners now face serious issues with it.
Why Removal Is Needed
Mortgage problems – Most lenders will not approve mortgages on homes with spray foam loft insulation.
Timber decay – Foam traps moisture against rafters and joists.
Poor ventilation – Airflow is blocked, creating damp loft environments.
Resale value – Homes with spray foam are harder to sell without removal.
Spray foam removal isn’t just about insulation—it’s about protecting your home’s structure and marketability.
Types of Spray Foam: Open Cell vs Closed Cell
Understanding the difference between foam types is critical before removal.
Open Cell Spray Foam
Soft, spongy, and lightweight.
Allows some airflow but absorbs moisture easily.
Easier to remove – the foam can often be peeled back from timbers.
Removal cost: £50–£60 per sqm.
Closed Cell Spray Foam
Hard, rigid, and extremely dense.
Forms a tough bond with rafters and membranes.
More difficult to remove – requires additional time, specialist tools, and expert care to achieve a clean, quality finish.
Removal cost: £75–£90 per sqm.
👉 Key difference:
Open cell removal is quicker and cheaper, while closed cell removal is labour-intensive and slower, which is why costs are higher.
Spray Foam Insulation Removal Cost in the UK
Unlike rogue traders, certified spray foam removal companies offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing.
Open cell spray foam removal: £50–£60 per sqm.
Closed cell spray foam removal: £75–£90 per sqm.
These costs include everything:
✔ Safe removal
✔ Loft protection (sheeting & boarding)
✔ Waste disposal
✔ Membrane inspection
✔ Timber treatment if required
✔ Spray foam removal certificate
No extras. No hidden charges. No unnecessary re-roofing.
Cost Breakdown by Property Type
| Property Type | Loft Size (Approx) | Open Cell Removal Cost | Closed Cell Removal Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terrace | 30–40 sqm | £1,500–£2,400 | £2,250–£3,600 |
| Semi-Detached | 40–60 sqm | £2,000–£3,600 | £3,000–£5,400 |
| Detached | 60–100 sqm | £3,000–£6,000 | £4,500–£9,000 |
The Spray Foam Removal Process
Safe spray foam removal requires a documented, step-by-step approach. Cutting corners risks damaging your loft and leaving hidden issues behind.
The Spray Foam Removal Process
Safe spray foam removal requires a documented, step-by-step approach. Cutting corners risks damaging your loft and leaving hidden issues behind.
Initial Loft Inspection
A thorough survey checks foam coverage, ventilation, and timber condition.
Identify Foam Type
Open Cell: Softer and easier to remove.
Closed Cell: Hard and rigid, requiring more time and precision.
Correct identification is essential before removal begins.
Free Quotation
You receive a transparent sqm-based cost. This covers the full job—no extras.
Board, Sheeting & Floor Protection
The loft is prepared with sheeting and boarding to contain dust and protect surfaces.
Safe, Manual Foam Removal
Open Cell Removal: Foam is cut and peeled away in manageable sections.
Closed Cell Removal: Extra care and time are needed to break the foam bond with timbers and membranes while preserving roof integrity.
No dry ice blasting. No chemical solvents. No re-roofing. Only safe manual removal.
Membrane Inspection
After removal, the loft membrane is checked. A proper job ensures it remains intact.
Timber Treatment
If dampness has affected rafters, they are treated with a protective solution to prevent future rot.
Certificate of Spray Foam Removal
A director-signed certificate is issued, confirming full removal, restored ventilation, intact membranes, and inspected timbers.
Spray Foam Removal Certificate (Example)
Every legitimate removal ends with a certificate of spray foam removal, signed by the company director. This isn’t just proof of work—it’s the document that allows homeowners to:
Proceed with selling their home (removes red flags in surveys).
Release equity or remortgage (satisfies mortgage lenders’ conditions).
Purchase or renew home insurance (proves the property is free from spray foam risks).
Client Name: __________________________
Property Address: __________________________
Completion Date: __________________________
Scope of Works:
Loft inspected
Foam type identified
Protective sheeting & boarding installed
Manual removal carried out
Membrane inspected
Timbers treated (if required)
Ventilation restored
Details:
Foam Type: ☐ Open Cell ☐ Closed Cell
Area Removed: ______ sqm
Method Used: Manual only (no dry ice blasting, no re-roofing)
Certification Statement:
This property has undergone a complete and safe spray foam insulation removal. All works have been carried out to professional standards.
Signed by Director: __________________________
How to Choose a Spray Foam Removal Company
🚩 Avoid Rogue Traders
Promoting dry ice blasting – dangerous and destructive.
Recommending full re-roofing – unnecessary in most cases.
Offering suspiciously low quotes – costs often rise later.
✅ Look for Certified Experts
Clear sqm pricing.
Manual, safe removal only.
Protective measures for your loft.
Director-signed removal certificate.
Benefits of Certified Spray Foam Removal
Restores proper roof ventilation.
Protects and treats loft timbers.
Safeguards property value and future sales.
Provides a certificate as official proof.
Avoids risks from cowboy methods.
Frequently asked questions
What is spray foam removal and why is it necessary?
How much does spray foam insulation removal cost in the UK?
What is the difference between open cell spray foam removal and closed cell spray foam removal?
Why do I need a spray foam removal certificate?
Can I use any spray foam removal company?
Do I need spray foam loft insulation removal if my property is insulated?
Spray foam removal is a complex process—but done right, it protects your home, restores ventilation, and provides official certification.
🚫 Avoid rogue traders using unsafe shortcuts.
✅ Choose certified experts who provide full, director-signed proof of safe removal.
At National Spray Foam Advice, we connect you with trusted spray foam removal experts across the UK.
👉 Get your free quotation today and ensure your loft is safe, mortgage-friendly, and professionally certified.
