Rim Joist Spray Foam
Another Addition. Another Rim Joist Done Right.
This remodel included a new addition where traditional batt insulation and poly wouldn’t have provided an effective seal—especially around the rim joist areas. To ensure maximum air sealing and thermal efficiency, we applied 3 inches of closed-cell spray foam directly to the rim joists and critical seams.
Spray foam is the ideal solution for tight, irregular spaces where air can easily leak in or out. As seen in the photos, this approach locks in comfort, improves energy efficiency, and prevents moisture intrusion—all while saving future heating and cooling costs.
Another clean, sealed, and protected space ready for finishing.
Custom Rambler — Full Home Insulation
This custom-built 9-foot ceiling rambler features multiple pin vaults and an expansive layout that demanded a meticulous insulation strategy from top to bottom. Our team at Cardinal Insulations fully sealed this home using high-quality fiberglass batt insulation combined with a 4-mil poly vapor barrier for top-tier moisture protection.
Every electrical box and overlapping plastic was precisely taped. Also all seams, windows, doors, and double top plates/bottom plates were sealed with acoustical sealant to stop outside air infiltration and maintain a quiet, draft-free interior.
We Clearly mark every outlet, switch, and fixture box with red tape — not just to seal out outside air for better energy efficiency, but also to ensure the drywallers can easily locate each box. No guesswork. No accidental cover-ups. Just clean, visible markings that keep the job moving smoothly.
It’s a small touch that makes a big difference — and shows respect for the whole team.
In the unfinished 8’ basement, where drywall installation will be delayed, we installed flame-retardant plastic sheeting instead of clear poly for added fire resistance and long-term safety. We also used clean white tape across all seams for a sharp, clean, finished look.
To meet fire code and boost safety:
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Fire-stop foam was injected vertically every 10 feet in exterior framing cavities
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Additional foam was applied along the top plates
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All penetrations through the rim joists were sealed for added fire blocking
This job was a clean, code-compliant install that enhances energy efficiency, comfort, and peace of mind. Built to last — and built right.
See you on the next one!
— Cardinal Insulations: Warming Homes, Preserving Peace
Compact 8’ New Construction – Northern MN Build
This cozy new construction project up north called for high-efficiency insulation to combat the colder climate. We installed R-21 fiberglass batt insulation in all exterior walls to provide solid thermal protection, especially important for homes in northern zones.
To fully seal the home from outside air, like on all jobs we do, we applied acoustical sealant around all plates and joints, along with can foam around all windows and door frames to eliminate drafts and outside pests from entering the little cracks.
For the ceiling, we used reinforced vapor barrier plastic — an ideal solution for remote jobs like this one where durability and one-trip efficiency are key. Standard 4-mil vapor barrier wouldn’t have been strong enough to support the weight of the blown-in insulation. By using reinforced plastic, we were able to blow in R-49 insulation in the attic while on-site, ensuring the home met modern energy code requirements.
