You’re in the market for better home insulation. Even doing a little surface level research will lead you to foam insulation. No wonder our energy evaluation experts answer a lot of questions about it. It’s a terrific insulation material because out of all the various insulation materials available, foam insulation stands out due to its superior thermal properties and versatility.
However, homeowners often face a choice between two primary types: closed cell foam insulation and open cell foam insulation. Even though both are considered foam, they each have their own advantages and areas where they work best for the intended purpose(s).
Let’s start with an overview of closed cell foam insulation.
All About Closed Cell Foam Insulation
Closed cell foam insulation is known for its high density and rigidness. This type of insulation consists of cells that are completely closed and tightly packed together. As a result, closed cell foam is more resistant to air and water infiltration compared to its open cell counterpart.
- Density and Strength: Closed cell foam has a higher density, typically ranging from 1.75 to 2.2 pounds per cubic foot. This density gives it greater strength and makes it suitable for applications where structural support is necessary.
- Moisture Resistance: Thanks to its closed-cell structure, this foam acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water and moisture from penetrating through it. This makes it ideal for areas exposed to high humidity or water, such as crawl spaces and basements.
- Thermal Insulation: Closed cell foam has a higher R-value per inch, usually around 6 to 7. This means it provides superior thermal insulation, making it effective in maintaining indoor temperatures and reducing energy costs.
- Air Barrier: The closed cell structure creates an effective air barrier, preventing air leakage and improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.
All About Open Cell Foam Insulation
Open cell foam insulation has a lower density and is more flexible compared to closed cell foam. Since cells in open cell foam are not completely closed, air fills the gaps within the material.
- Density and Flexibility: Open cell foam typically has a density of around 0.5 pounds per cubic foot. Its lower density makes it lighter and more flexible, which works better in certain applications.
- Sound Absorption: One of the most popular features of open cell foam is its ability to absorb sound. The open cell structure helps to reduce noise transmission, making it an excellent choice for interior walls and rooms you want soundproofed.
- Vapor Permeability: Unlike closed cell foam, open cell foam is permeable to moisture vapor. While it does not act as a moisture barrier, it allows moisture to pass through and escape, reducing the risk of condensation and mold growth within walls and ceilings.
- Cost-Effective: Open cell foam is generally less expensive than closed cell foam, making it a more budget-friendly option for homeowners looking to affordably insulate large areas.
- R-Value: The R-value of open cell foam is lower than that of closed cell foam, typically around 3.5 to 4 per inch. While it may not provide the same level of thermal resistance, it is still effective in many applications.
Where is Closed Cell Foam Insulation Used?
Closed cell foam insulation is well-suited for a variety of applications due to its high strength and moisture resistance. Here are some common areas where our certified insulation installers use closed cell foam:
- Attics: In attic insulation, closed cell foam provides excellent thermal resistance and prevents air leakage. It can be applied to the roof deck, creating a barrier that enhances energy efficiency.
- Walls: Closed cell foam is ideal for exterior walls, especially in the Kansas City area with extreme summer and winter temperatures. Its moisture barrier properties help protect against water infiltration and protects walls from water damage.
- Crawl Spaces and Basements: The moisture resistance of closed cell foam makes it a smart choice for crawl spaces and basements. It prevents water from seeping in, reducing the risk of mold and mildew growth on subflooring.
- Foundations: Closed cell foam can be applied to foundation walls to provide additional insulation and protect against moisture.
Where is Open Cell Foam Insulation Used?
Open cell foam insulation is versatile and can be used in places where flexibility and sound absorption are important. Here are some common places our installers apply open cell foam:
- Interior Walls: Open cell foam is excellent for interior walls, especially in areas where soundproofing is important, such as bedrooms, home offices and media rooms or music studios.
- Ceilings: The flexibility of open cell foam makes it suitable for ceiling applications, where it can conform to nooks and crannies and provide effective insulation.
- Attics: While not as effective as closed cell foam in extreme summer and winter weather, open cell foam can still be used in attics. It helps reduce air leakage and provides adequate thermal resistance.
- Crawl Spaces: Open cell foam can be used in crawl spaces where moisture vapor permeability is desired. It allows any moisture that enters the space to escape, reducing the risk of condensation.
How Do I Know Which Foam Insulation is Right for My Goals and Budget?
Schedule an energy evaluation with an A+ Insulation expert. We’ll evaluate your current insulation and discuss your ultimate goals. When deciding between closed cell and open cell foam insulation, here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Climate: With Kansas City’s sweltering summers and freezing winters, closed cell foam may be more effective due to its higher R-value and superior thermal resistance.
- Moisture Concerns: If moisture resistance is an issue, closed cell foam is the better choice. It acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water infiltration and protecting against mold and mildew growth.
- Soundproofing: For areas where sound absorption is the main goal, such as bedrooms or home theaters, open cell foam is the smarter option due to its superior soundproofing capabilities.
- Budget: Open cell foam is generally more affordable than closed cell foam. If you are working with a limited budget, open cell foam can provide effective insulation.
A Quick Summary of the Differences Between Closed Cell and Open Cell Foam Insulation
Closed cell foam offers higher density, moisture resistance and superior thermal insulation, making it ideal for Kansas City weather and homes with areas exposed to moisture. On the other hand, open cell foam is great for soundproofing, odd-shaped places that need flexible insulation material, and saving on the bottom line, making it a great choice for interior walls.
Learn more about our spray foam insulation services.
Choosing the right insulation will optimize your home’s energy efficiency and make you more comfortable. Ready to schedule an energy audit or get a quote on foam insulation installation? Contact us.