What is insulation made from material that expands as it is installed commonly referred to as?

The term for insulation made from material that expands during installation is indeed commonly referred to as Spray-Foam Insulation. This type of insulation is composed of a polyurethane product that, when sprayed, expands and fills gaps, cracks, and crevices, creating an excellent thermal barrier. The expansion allows the material to conform to irregular shapes and spaces, providing effective air sealing in addition to insulating properties.

Spray-Foam Insulation is especially valued for its ability to prevent air infiltration and thus improve energy efficiency within a building. Its unique application method and performance characteristics set it apart from other types of insulation, such as loose-fill, blanket, or rigid board insulations, which do not have the same expanding properties during installation.

The other options mention different types of insulation with distinct characteristics: loose-fill insulation is usually made from cellulose, fiberglass, or mineral wool and is poured or blown into spaces; blanket insulation consists of batts or rolls and is typically installed in walls and ceilings; and rigid board insulation refers to solid foam boards that provide high insulating values and are often used in foundation walls and roofs, but none of these options expand during the installation process like spray-foam does.