Choosing Between Open-Cell and Closed-Cell Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation provides comprehensive protection, outperforming rigid foam and fibreglass batts. It can last for decades and, in some cases, even the lifetime of the building. Its low price and long-lasting adhesion and bonding properties remain hard to beat.

But those convinced of opting for this insulation for their homes or offices may be faced with the challenge of picking between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. And neither can be considered superior to the other.

The key is to weigh the advantages of both types and pick the one that best serves your purposes. We help you go through the distinctions between the two in terms of their utility, efficiency, and application method.

Compositional and R-Value Differences

While closed-cell foam insulation is dense and rigid, open-cell foam is lightweight, flexible, and easy to work around. The R-Value of spray foam is affected by several variables, such as the type of foam used, how long it has been in use, and how well it resists moisture.

Because of its high R-value, spray foam is frequently used to insulate home attics and basements. Here “R” represents the traditional unit of measurement, and “R-value” implies “heat flow resistance.”

A higher R-value indicates better insulation because it provides more resistance to heat transfer. Open-cell foams have a lower density and lower R-value than closed-cell foams. Check out the R-Value Insulation Chart or consult a professional to determine the needed R-value.

Expansion Rates

It’s important to note that the expansion rates of open-cell and closed-cell foam insulation are very different.

Open-cell spray foam expands very quickly, sometimes up to 100 times its original size. Given its ability to penetrate tight spaces like those found in open wall cavities, crawl spaces, and attics, it is an excellent choice for residential construction. You can cut down on your utility bills every month because your HVAC system isn’t working overtime.

Due to its higher density, closed-cell spray foam expands very little when used for insulation. Nevertheless, it still provides the same beneficial air-sealing properties as open-cell foam.

Moisture, Sound and Air Permeability

Spray foams, open or closed cells, create an airtight barrier that helps prevent draughts, heat loss, and moisture intrusion.

The cell structure of open-cell foam allows some moisture to pass through it, allowing you to identify trouble spots for repair sooner. As opposed to this, closed-cell spray foam is entirely watertight and won’t absorb any moisture. This quality makes it preferable in humid, flood-prone, and excessive rainfall-receiving regions because it strengthens sheaths and frames.

Open-cell foam’s thicker and softer material is superior to a closed-cell foam’s tight, dense structure for dampening sound waves. Due to the hygienic environment provided by closed-cell spray foam, mould and mildew cannot survive in the insulation. Allergens and dust are remarkably reduced in open-cell foam, making it ideal for commercial and residential applications.

Differences in Pricing

Pricing for spray-foam insulation varies by application and other factors. It is typically determined by the amount of material used to insulate a given area. It’s a one-time cost that significantly improves the value of your home and the quality of life you can enjoy there.

Open-cell spray foam is less expensive because it is easier to install, and the foam itself is cheaper to produce. While closed-cell spray foam has a higher material cost requiring multiple thinner coats, which can increase installation time and cost.

Why Go For Isothane

Spray foam solutions from isothane.com  are created using polyurethane, a flexible blend of materials with a broad range of applications for commercial and domestic projects. We can provide the most qualified installers with the highest grade results and service.

With over 20 years of experience as manufacturers and installers, our in-depth understanding and knowledge of this industry enable us to provide our clients with innovative products.

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