Do you know the difference between open-cell & closed-cell spray foam insulation, and when they should be used? You’d be surprised how many people within the industry of insulation don’t know the difference.
In the case of open-cell spray foam insulation, it’s essentially used for sound-dampening / sound-proofing. It’s incredibly efficient for such uses, and applicable for any physical spaces that require soundproofing, to help eliminate sound pollution. The only caveat for open-cell spray foam insulation is the room, or rooms need to be large enough for application, as the expansion rate of open-cell spray foam is between .5″ - 1″. So in this instance, size really does matter.
The highest R-value of any insulation type
In the instance of closed-cell spray foam, it’s used to insulate the exterior shell of your home, business, or agricultural facility, such as exterior walls, roof-decks, and underfloors. This creates a monolithic seam, which establishes a superior air & vapor barrier, which also helps regulate temperatures, and eliminate air leakage. It has the highest R-value per inch of any commonly installed insulation, roughly R-6.0 to R-7.0 per inch depending on the product, which also helps to reinforce structural integrity of any structure noticeably, because the cured foam bonds to the framing and sheathing.
It also helps to significantly reduce your energy bill when it comes to running your HVAC system for heating & cooling, so your home, business, or agricultural facility will stay warmer much longer during the winter, and cooler much longer during the summer. It’s the most efficient, and optimized energy insulation solution that exists. And because it’s energy efficient, that means a significantly less carbon footprint. It also means you may qualify for rebates through the Energy Trust of Oregon. Call today to learn more about the added benefits of spray foam insulation. Go Green. Go Foam.
Common Questions
Which is better, open-cell or closed-cell?
Neither is universally better. Closed-cell resists vapor and has a higher R-value per inch, so it belongs against the ground, at rim joists and under roof decks. Open-cell is vapor-open and cheaper per board foot, which suits interior walls and ceilings where sound matters more than moisture.
Can both be used in the same building?
Yes, and often should be. A typical Oregon house takes closed-cell in the crawl space and at the roof deck, with open-cell in interior partitions. The material follows the problem in each part of the assembly.
Is open-cell a cheap compromise?
No. It is the correct material in places where vapor is not the risk, and it seals air just as effectively. Using closed-cell everywhere would cost more without performing better in those locations.
Related: closed-cell spray foam · our spray foam insulation service
Also worth reading: what R-value measures, spray foam against fiberglass.
Talk it through with an installer
Every building is different. Tell us about the property and we will give you a straight answer on what it needs.