OPEN-CELL FOAM INSULATION

Choosing the right insulation product is a complicated decision. There are a lot of options. Within spray foam insulation, you can install either open-cell spray foam or closed-cell spray foam. Both products work in different ways and are suited to different situations. With the help of our Omaha insulation contractors, you’ll soon understand what your specific needs require.

VARIOUS INSULATION SOLUTIONS FOR ALL APPLICATIONS

About Open-cell Spray Foam

Open-cell spray foam is made up of cells that are left partially open. This allows increased flexibility and gives the material a soft texture. The spaces and gaps within the cells also lower the density of the foam. The density for open-cell spray foam is usually around 0.5 lb per cubic foot and it is best suited for use in internal settings.

Advantages

Low cost

Open-cell foam costs less than other types of foam since it requires fewer products for manufacturing. This makes it much more affordable than closed cell spray foam.

Noise-canceling

The soft texture of the open-cell foam makes it ideal for filling even the smallest and hard to reach gaps with ease. Moreover, it expands three times as much as closed-cell foam. This makes it perfect for noise canceling. It blocks out a hundred percent of sound making it ideal for insulating internal walls.

Disadvantages

Lower insulating capacity

Lower R-values make open-cell foam less insulating than closed-cell foam. This lower insulating ability means energy conservation is lesser, especially in extreme weather conditions.

Higher expansion

Spray foam works by expanding after application and sealing even the smallest gaps. Although not necessarily a disadvantage, varying expansion rates are the biggest difference between the two types of foam. Closed-cell foam expands to 1 inch while open-cell foam expands to 3 inches. This means that closed-cell foam insulation can be layered for greater insulating. However, only one layer of open-cell foam can be applied. Which is great for soundproofing, but not the best for trapping heat.

Spray polyurethane foam, commonly known as spray foam, is an insulating foam plastic that is spray-applied as a liquid and then expands to 120 times its liquid volume to insulate and seal all cracks, gaps, and joints it is applied to. It can cut heating and energy bills by up to 50%. Open-cell spray foam insulation has tiny cells which are not completely closed. Open-cell foam is usually less expensive because it is developed using fewer chemicals. Open-cell is superior as an air barrier and is sponge-like in appearance. It is often used to insulate interior walls because it minimizes outdoor noise intrusion. It is not recommended for outdoor applications.