IC rated recessed cans and spray foam insulation

[mtCDCcb]

We leave in climate zone 7 and require a R-49 insulation in the roof. We exclusively see this R-value achieved by using spray foam insulation. We also see an abundance of recessed cans. We required the cans to be IC rated. My question is does this IC, insulation contact, rating also apply to spray foam insulation? Should there be any concern with the cans being in contact with the spray foam. Does the insulation have to be rated in order to be in contact with the can? Thanks.
Carlos

[Jerry Peck - Codeman]

Carlos,

First, a question to clarify the installation: Typically, the spray foam insulation is applied to the underside of the roof sheathing instead of to the upperside of the ceiling - is the spray foam applied to the underside of the roof sheathing or to the upperside of the ceiling?

[mtCDCcb]

Underside of the roof sheathing. Our roof insulation requirement is R-49 and we see a lot of cathedral ceilings which results in the cans being in contact with the insulation. We have realized and accept the loss of R-value in these areas since we are typically getting only about 4-5" of foam behind the cans but our concern is the insulation being in contact with the cans. The cans are IC rated so they can be in contact with the insulation but does it go both ways especially with spray foam insulation? Thanks.

[Jerry Peck - Codeman]