What Type Of Spray Foam Insulation Is Right For You?
Spray foam insulation is one of the most efficient ways to insulate your home, office, or commercial space. It creates a vapor barrier that helps keep your building energy-efficient, reduce energy bills, and improve comfort levels. There are two types available: open-cell spray foam and closed-cell spray foam.
In this article, you’ll learn the differences between open and closed-cell spray foam. We will help you decide what the right one for you is. Read on!
Main Differences Between Open And Closed-Cell Spray Foam
Open-cell spray foam is composed of small, unconnected cells filled with air. This spray foam provides better insulation than traditional fiberglass. Its low density makes it lightweight and easy to spray on.
Closed-cell spray foam comprises tightly compacted cells, giving it a higher R-value and making it the densest spray foam. It’s also much more resilient and durable than open-cell spray. Open-cell spray foam is more flexible because it has more space between the cells, and closed-cell has no room in the cells.
The Good And The Bad Of Each Type Of Spray Foam
Open-Cell Spray Foam
Pros:
- It expands 100 times more than its regular size when applied.
- More flexible than closed-cell spray foam.
- It reduces noise.
- Its extremely lightweight.
Cons:
- Not the best for extreme temperatures.
- It won’t give structural support.
- It shrinks with time.
Closed-Cell Spray Foam
These are the pros and cons of closed-cell spray foam:
Pros:
- It is energy efficient.
- It gives an airtight s.eal
- It is water-resistant.
- It last longer than open-cell spray foam.
- It provides structural support.
- It is eco-friendly as it uses less material than open-cell spray foam.
Cons:
- It has high density and weight.
- It is hard to install evenly.
- It can shrink over time.
- It is not breathable.
Which One Is The Best For You?
Both open and closed-cell spray foam has their benefits. In the end, you have to analyze the following factors:
1. The R-Value You Need:
Some areas do require a specific R-value in your home. Therefore, you might need to invest in closed-cell foam. It has a higher R-value of 7.
2. Hard-To-Reach Spaces In Your Walls And Attic
Open cell spray has the flexibility to get into all those nooks and crannies.
3. Desire For Stronger Walls?
If this is your situation, the closed-cell spray is the best option because of its density and hardening abilities.
4. Analyze Your Budget
Open-cell spray is more affordable than a closed-cell spray, but it doesn’t last as long. In addition, it can insulate in extreme temperatures. It’s essential to analyze this when choosing an option.
Invest In Your Home By Working With A Reputable Spray Foam Insulation Company
When it comes to spray foam insulation, Bryars Spray Foam will cover all your needs. Our experienced technicians use the best spray foam products on the market and provide superior installations at a competitive price. We understand how vital spray foam is for energy efficiency and comfort in your home or office. We deliver the highest quality and most reliable insulation solutions with each spray foam application.
Remember that your best investment starts at home. Contact us to get a free quote for you spray insulation!
Frequently Asked Questions
When can spray foam be installed?
We suggest getting spray foam insulation installed in an attic, walls, windows, and any other areas where air can leak in and out at a time before the extremes of the hot or cold season. That’s why several homeowners prefer to have spray foam installed in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and optimal for an effective and durable installation.
How is insulation installed in existing walls?
We suggest getting spray foam insulation installed in an attic, walls, windows, and any other areas where air can leak in and out at a time before the extremes of the hot or cold season. That’s why several homeowners prefer to have spray foam installed in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild and optimal for an effective and durable installation.
Is crawl space encapsulation worth the cost?
While crawl space encapsulation cost is not cheap, it is definitely worth your money, time, and effort. You will save money on your energy bills, keep pests at bay, decrease the buildup of mold and mildew, and protect the foundation of your home for many years to come.
How is insulation installed in existing walls?
Generally, this is a project that requires the expertise of a professional spray foam contractor. To add insulation to an existing wall, holes are drilled between the studs of the existing walls. Then, spray foam insulation can be blown in to fill up the wall cavities. Lastly, the holes must be plugged up and refinished to match the rest of the wall.
What is crawl space encapsulation?
Crawl space encapsulation is the process of lining your crawl space with high-quality polyethylene. This creates a barrier that covers and seals the floors, walls, and in some cases, the ceiling of your crawl space. By crawl space encapsulation, you’ll reduce damage from moisture and keep unwanted pests at bay.
How do you seal a crawl space with a dirt floor?
The most important thing to do is to cut off the moisture supply to the air by laying down polyethylene directly on the ground. The standard 6 mil poly vapor barrier can do the trick. Seal all the joints as much as you can.
Areas We Serve
Bryars Spray Foam proudly serves Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. If you are looking for a reliable spray foam insulation company in this area, trust only the professionals from Bryars Spray Foam. We provide high-quality services at the best prices!
Give Us a Call Today!
If you have any questions about our services or would like to request free estimates, feel free to reach us at (205) 576-5009. You can also send us an email at [email protected] and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can. Bryars Spray Foam proudly serves all properties throughout Tuscaloosa, Alabama, and the surrounding areas.
