When it came to creating optimal environmental conditions to help protect and preserve valuable works of art inside a 100-year-old museum in our nation’s capital, spray foam insulation rose above the rest as an all-in-one premier solution.
The National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC, which houses more than 6,000 pieces, some as old as 500 years, struggled to maintain steady temperatures and humidity levels due to a lack of insulation throughout the building. This not only affects museum visitors from enjoying their experience in a conditioned environment, but it can also contribute to the gradual deterioration of these art pieces.
Realizing the innovative properties found in spray foam insulation, the museum worked with Holcim, an IBE Board Member, to begin retrofitting the building’s walls and roof deck with Enverge® NexSeal 2.0 Closed Cell Spray Foam. This product provides an airtight seal that prevents air leakage, reduces moisture buildup, and improves thermal performance.
When completed, the museum was able to cut its energy loss in half, therefore also reducing its energy bills. Not only that, but the museum was better equipped to control humidity levels, benefitting both museum patrons and the art itself.
By utilizing spray foam, the National Museum of Women in the Arts took an important step to ensure that museumgoers can continue to enjoy these works for years to come. Holcim is proud to be a part of such a rewarding and fulfilling project.