Insulation question - light switch (foam, electric)

[mmyk72]

1 more thing.... should I get the 'Great Stuff' foam. I think it comes in 2 versions: regular and for 'large gap'. I guess the latter one expands more.... Any harm to getting the 'Large Gap' type?

I figure once I start using a can, it has to be used up completely so I want to fill other things with it.

[JGC97]

Great Stuff is fine. For electrical outlets, use the regular. Large gap fills spaces that are several inches. You won't need that for the electrical outlets. Yes, find all places you want to fill with foam before starting as you will want to use the entire can. Use it up and get your money's worth.

[robrobrob]

My questions is it okay or smart to spray foam around wires?

[JGC97]

Originally Posted by robrobrob

My questions is it okay or smart to spray foam around wires?

Are you talking about the wires behind the electrical outlet box? If so, those wires - if done properly - should look like this.

[rrtechno]

Just be sure you DON'T spray foam around the wires inside the box.

(I know, I'm repeating what was posted before, but we all want to be sure it is clear.)

[robrobrob]

Originally Posted by HereOnMars

Are you talking about the wires behind the electrical outlet box? If so, those wires - if done properly - should look like this.

Yes. But the box is older. It was installed about 50 years ago. So, I am trying to figure out if it is okay to insulate around the wires.

[JGC97]

Originally Posted by robrobrob

Yes. But the box is older. It was installed about 50 years ago. So, I am trying to figure out if it is okay to insulate around the wires.

Doesn't matter how old the box is. Even older electrical wire running into a box was still protected with sheathing behind the box. I still have knob and tube wiring, in metal boxes, and the wiring behind the box is covered. You can spray the foam around the opening and it won't hurt your wiring. Just don't spray inside the box (refer to previous photo in post #8) where your receptacle and bare wires are attached. Simply place a foam pad over it and put the cover plate back on.

[Cleonidas]

Originally Posted by Hedgehog_Mom

Excellent advice! Sometimes you have to replace the outlet, and filling the box with foam would make that a difficult job.

I agree. If you hire an electrician to do any work and he finds the box full of foam, he'll kill you

[Cleonidas]

Originally Posted by robrobrob

My questions is it okay or smart to spray foam around wires?

Just a little dab'll do ya. Don't overdo it or it will be difficult to undo.

[South Jersey Styx]

This is a very informative thread. Thanks everyone for as the great advice!