Your walls may not be as tough as you think. Alone they aren't enough to keep you insulated from the weather, sound, and pests. A barrier between walls is necessary to keep heat and sound in the house, and cold, dampness and pests out. Most homes are already fitted with some sort of insulation, but not all of them are created equal.

Many homes, especially older ones, are outfitted with fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass is made of lightweight, wiry pink fibers that are compressed together into sheets. Although inexpensive and to a small degree effective at climate control, fiberglass offers minimal protection and saves little energy.

It also can be harmful to your health. Touching fiberglass can make the skin itchy and sore, while inhaling one of the sharp fibers can cause serious health issues. They can become caught in the throat, creating scars that can potentially cause further problems.

To create the strongest barriers between your walls and the outside world, consider the benefits of spray foam insulation as an alternative to traditional fiberglass. Spray foam is liquid polyurethane which solidifies into a spongy material once it hits the wall.

Since it is applied in liquid form, it is able to penetrate the entire surface being treated, filling in the tiniest of cracks. The fewer gaps there are between the insulation and the walls, the stronger the protection against outside elements.

The thick barrier created by spray foam makes it nearly impossible for small pests and insects to burrow into your home. Whereas fiberglass is easily chewed, torn, or simply displaced over time, spray foam insulation sticks permanently to the area.

Its uneven texture and strength make it a formidable obstacle for any pest that would dare attempt to break through it. Water and mold will also be discouraged from seeping in and causing damage. Spray foam is a safe alternative to other materials with benefits that include mold prevention.

Spray foam insulation can also be used to better soundproof the walls. The thick surface dampens loud noise. It also can be sprayed in a variety of places, including ceilings and floors. No more will you have to suffer loud noise from your basement or teen's bedroom.

In addition to pest control and soundproofing, it is a green material. It saves far more energy than fiberglass, keeping more heat in during cool months and more hot air out during summers.

It is also created using renewable and recyclable resources, which helps to contribute back to the economy as well as the environment. And while initially it may seem expensive, spray foam insulation will increase the value of your home and save you plenty on electric bills, saving you more money in the long run. Your home is your fortress, so if you want to protect it, you have to start with the foundation first. Investing in spray foam insulation will make your house less vulnerable to the elements (as well as your noisy neighbors). And you won't have to worry about potential health risks. Contact an insulation specialist to find out more.