Today, many homeowners want to update their houses with foam insulation. This technology limits the air exchange between the interior and the outside and promotes energy efficiency. When perusing potential insulation, you must choose between closed- and open-cell options. Here is some insight into each to help you decide.

Closed-Cell Foam

At least 90% of closed-cell foam bubbles do not share walls, a structure which makes the material weigh between 1 and 2 pounds per cubic foot. This foam insulation offers a 6-per-inch R-value, meaning it effectively holds heat in or keeps it away from the home. Closed-cell foam expands to about 1 inch thick, but it’s possible to increase the R-value by spraying several layers of the material.

Due to density, this insulation is not perfect for soundproofing because it conducts noises instead of dampening them. However, this material creates a vapor barrier, preventing moisture exchange and limiting rot—an excellent option for houses in high-humidity areas.

Open-Cell Spray Foam 

Open-cell spray foam features open cells in at least half of the material. It generally weighs around 1/2 pound per cubic foot, making it super lightweight and an excellent option for attics as it won’t cause structural stress. Open-cell foam insulation can expand to 3 inches thick, so you may only need to spray one layer in standard household walls. Walls that contain plumbing like sinks or showers may require multiple applications because they are thicker.

Open-cell foam insulation has an R-value around 3.5 per inch, which encourages more heat exchange between the interior and exterior of the home than closed-cell varieties. Because of this ventilation, it’s not ideal for homes in extreme climates with many days below freezing or above 80 degrees.

Homeowners who are interested in using insulation for soundproofing should consider open-cell options because the increased open space dampens noise. This material requires an additional moisture barrier like polyethylene film to keep out fog, rain, and condensation.

Homeowners interested in installing open- or closed-cell foam insulation should contact Energy Shield Spray Foam in Henry County, KY. Their expert installers will improve your home energy use with top-notch insulation at competitive rates. Call the Eminence-area company at (502) 220-0231 for a free estimate. Visit the website for information on their services, including installing insulation in attics, crawl spaces, and entire homes.