Does WAC offer Spray Foam compatible Recessed Lighting?

Recent updates to UL 1598, the Standard for Luminaires, and CSA C22.2 No. 250.0-21 now address a significant need in the building and construction industry: compatibility of recessed luminaires with spray foam insulation. For the first time, these standards provide a pathway for luminaires to obtain a foam insulation marking, reflecting advancements in construction techniques and materials.

Why This Matters

Polyurethane spray foam insulation is widely used for its ease of application, excellent thermal performance, and energy-saving benefits. When used with luminaires, current standards set an R-value limit of 6.8, aligning with the thermal performance of medium-density spray foam.

Understanding R-Value

R-value is a measure of thermal resistance used in building and construction to evaluate the effectiveness of insulation materials. Higher R-values indicate greater insulating power, which helps reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency. Spray foam insulation, known for its superior thermal properties, is classified into low- and medium-density types, each with specific R-values:

• Low-density spray foam (open-cell): Typically has an R-value of about 3.6 to 3.8 per inch. It is lighter and provides air sealing but is less dense.
• Medium-density spray foam (closed-cell): Offers an R-value of 6.0 to 6.8 per inch, making it ideal for high-performance thermal insulation and vapor barriers.

WAC Spray Foam Compatible Luminaires:

Compatible housings will be listed on housing spec sheets with "SPCL"

• FQ 4″ New Const Housing Trimmed / Trimless, Round / Square (R4FBNT-1)
• FQ 2″ New Const Housing Trimmed / Trimless, Round / Square (R2FBNT-1)
• FQ 2″ Shallow New Const Housing Trimmed / Trimless, Round / Square (R2FBN1T-1)
• FQ 2″ SHALLOW Fire Rated New Const Housing Trimmed, Round / Square (R2FBN1T-1-F)