Insulation Tax Credit if I do my own spray foam.

[andii2121]

Can I claim the insulation tax credit if I spray foam my own walls using a product like Froth-Pak or Tiger Foam?

[Bsch4477]

Typical bulk insulation products can qualify, such as batts, rolls, blow-in fibers, rigid boards, expanding spray, and pour-in-place.

Products that air seal (reduce air leaks) can also qualify, as long as they come with a Manufacturers Certification Statement, including:

• Weather stripping
• Spray foam in a can, designed to air seal
• Caulk designed to air seal

[Opus 17 · Accepted solution]

Yes, you can claim a credit for the cost of the product only, nothing for your own labor if you install it yourself.  

If the product was installed in 2022, the credit is 10% of the cost, maximum credit of $200, with a lifetime cap on all efficiency improvements of $500.  If the product is installed in 2023, the credit is 30% of the cost with an annual cap of $200. 

The tax code says,

(3)Building envelope componentThe term “building envelope component” means—

(A) any insulation material or system, including air sealing material or system, which is specifically and primarily designed to reduce the heat loss or gain of a dwelling unit when installed in or on such dwelling unit,

The product must meet or exceed "the most recent International Energy Conservation Code standard in effect as of the beginning of the calendar year which is 2 years prior to the calendar year in which such component is placed in service." (in other words, for product installed in 2022, it must meet the 2020 standard; for a product installed in 2023, it must meet the 2021 standard.)

Keep proof that your product meets the required standard for at least 3 years after filing.