Soy oils are replacing a portion of the petrochemicals used in spray on insulation. At the West Coast Green conference, BioBased Insulation and Demilec were showing off soy-based products that eliminate toxins and volatile organic compounds.

The companies wouldn't disclose the percentage of the final insulation product that is actually from natural products but BioBased says its portion of the mix of chemicals is about 96 percent soy-based.

Adding insulation reduces heating/cooling costs by up to 50 percent when combined with efficient windows. Another potential advantage for new construction is being able to buy smaller and less costly HVAC systems since more efficient homes require less BTUs to maintain comfortable a temperature.

Demilec has two new soy-based products, Heatlok and Agribalance. While they can cost up to twice as much as fiberglass insulation, the payback period can be as little as 24 months due to energy savings. Spray-on insulation requires an open area to be installed so their appropriateness in remodels is limited. Demilec's products can be sprayed on and left exposed in attics to reduce energy consumption.

As with many companies here, both vendors emphasizezd that no formaldehyde (the building industry's equivalent to energy's carbon emissions) is used in their products.