Closed Cell vs. Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is very popular in Cornelia and can be used in various areas of a home. There are two types of spray foam insulation to choose from – closed cell foam and open cell foam. Spray foam insulation is easy to apply, and it prevents air from seeping in and out of the walls of your home, lowering your energy bill. Closed cell and open cell foam are both great insulators, but they function and apply differently.
Characteristics of Closed Cell Spray Foam
- Is made of stiff, uniform cells
- Is dense and rigid
- Expands less than open cell spray foam
- Has a higher thermal resistance (R-value) than open cell spray foam
- Resists moisture and water better than open cell spray foam
- Prevents mold growth
- Strengthens walls
- Costs more than open cell spray foam
- Applies in thin coats
- Has a long installation time
- Functions well in appliances and walls
Characteristics of Open Cell Spray Foam
- Is made up of linked irregularly shaped cells
- Is flexible and lightweight
- Absorbs sound
- Expands much more than closed cell spray foam
- Has a lower R-value than closed cell spray foam
- Does not resist water, vapor, and air as well as closed cell spray foam
- More affordable than closed cell spray foam
- Applies easily and has a short installation time
- Functions well in crawl spaces, ceiling and wall cavities, and nooks in attics
When choosing a spray foam insulation, consider speaking to an insulation contractor. Explain where you will be placing insulation and how you are expecting it to perform. You may want to opt for closed cell spray foam insulation because of its energy efficiency, but it can be difficult to apply in tight spaces. Conversely, you might think open cell spray foam insulation is suitable for your walls because it is more affordable, but its exposure to extreme heat will not be cost effective. Regardless of the spray foam insulation you choose for your Cornelia home, hire trained professionals at Southeastern Insulation to apply it.
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