A Look At The Primary Types Of Spray Foam Insulation & Pros And Cons Of Each
With high R-values, quick installation capabilities, and more, spray foam insulation has grown to be one of the most popular options for business owners looking to enhance the efficiency of their property. Spray foam insulation most assuredly has a lot to offer, but many people have no idea that there is actually more than one type of spray foam insulation available to choose from.
The two primary forms of foam insulation are open-cell and closed-cell spray foam. While similar, these two products have different qualities, advantages, and potential downfalls. Take a look at both open and closed-cell spray foam insulation and the pros and cons of each to help you decide what will be the best option for your property.
Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
Closed-cell spray foam insulation is perhaps the most popular of the two types for both business and residential installations. Closed-cell foam has a tighter consistency with fewer and smaller air bubbles due to its ingredient composition. For this reason, it does not expand quite as far during installation and more product may have to be used during the installation process.
Pros:
- Less permeable design works well to deter moisture and air
- Can withstand a great deal of direct pressure without breaking down
- Suitable for a diverse array of applications
Cons:
- Can be heavier weight than open-cell spray foam
- Does not offer the same level of breathability as open-cell foam
- Is not as effective for soundproofing purposes
Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation
Open-cell spray foam insulation has a more open and airy consistency with more interior bubbles. The open-cellular composition brings along its own advantages. This composition means the foam tends to expand pretty drastically during installation, so not as much product may be required to cover the same amount of space as closed-cell spray foam.
Pros:
- Works really well for soundproofing
- Allows a certain level of breathability to help deter condensation
- Is lighter weight than closed-cell foam
Cons:
- Can break down easier with enough pressure
- Does not offer as high of an R-value as closed-cell foam
- May be more prone to shrinkage after several years in place
Get Advice From an Insulation Professional to Help You Choose
Insulation is an ever-valuable component in your business, so getting the best is a must. If you need help choosing between types of insulation for your property, reach out to a professional insulation contractor in your area that offers spray foam insulation.
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