Difference Between Open Cell and Closed Cell Spray Foam

The main difference between these two types of foam is pretty obvious. ... Open cell foam has tiny cells which are not completely closed. The open cells are filled with air and this affects the way the foam feels and performs. Closed cell foam has cells which are sealed off so air doesn't get inside the structure at all.

1. Should I use open cell or closed cell foam?
2. What is closed cell foam used for?
3. Can open cell foam be sprayed over closed cell foam?
4. What is closed cell spray foam?
5. What are the disadvantages of spray foam insulation?
6. Does closed cell foam need a vapor barrier?
7. How thick does closed cell foam need to be?
8. Is closed cell foam good for soundproofing?
9. Is great stuff a closed cell foam?
10. Is spray foam worth the cost?
11. Is open cell spray foam better than fiberglass?
12. Where should you not use expanding foam?

Should I use open cell or closed cell foam?

Due to the lighter density of open cell foam, it will perform much better than closed cell when it comes to sound dampening. The thicker, softer material of open cell will reduce sound waves much more efficiently than that of the tight, dense closed cell foam.

What is closed cell foam used for?

Closed cell foams are the most popular type of insulation used in remodeling and new construction applications. They can provide support to the structure due to the composition of their cells. They protect against water damage, and generally provide a higher r-value per inch than open cell foams.

Can open cell foam be sprayed over closed cell foam?

No, you do not want to spray closed cell foam over open cell foam or fiberglass or cellulose. ... Now you can do the reverse, spray open cell over closed cell so long as you have sufficient thickness of closed cell SPF to prevent potential condensation on the surface of the foam.

What is closed cell spray foam?

Closed cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is a low expanding, spray-applied plastic that forms an air seal wherever it is installed and is known to have a high R-Value. Closed cell is commonly used in pole barns, vans, and commercial buildings.

What are the disadvantages of spray foam insulation?

DISADVANTAGES:

• The upfront cost is higher than conventional insulation.
• Payback period is 2-4 years.
• It is not generally a Do-it-Yourself project.
• The installation process is longer.
• The process could be messier.

Does closed cell foam need a vapor barrier?

Since spray foam is an air barrier and insulation, it stops the air flow and moisture movement. Open cell spray foam is required by code to have a vapor barrier installed. ... Closed cell spray foam can be a vapor barrier after it is installed at least 1.5” thick.

How thick does closed cell foam need to be?

Closed cell spray foam should be 4- to 5- inches on the ceiling and 2- to 3-inches in the walls. This might come as a surprise to you, but honestly, this is all the spray foam it takes to get the biggest bang for your buck with the air seal and thermal resistance needed for certain areas of the home.

Is closed cell foam good for soundproofing?

Both open cell and closed cell foam are useful for vehicle soundproofing and insulation. Open cell foam absorbs sound, but closed cell foam is more durable. Both are great for insulation.

Is great stuff a closed cell foam?

Closed-cell foam provides a vapor barrier, a harder finish and higher R-value. Canned foam like GREAT STUFF™ is a closed-cell foam that comes in "single-component" form. ... The ability to block moisture transmission while also providing air sealing and high insulation value is an advantage in many applications.

Is spray foam worth the cost?

Spray foam insulation is typically two to three times more expensive than cellulose or fiberglass insulation. ... Spray foam insulation does cost more than traditional options, but over time it pays you back in energy savings, and you can't really put a price on the comfort of your family.

Is open cell spray foam better than fiberglass?

If poorly installed, fiberglass can also leave spaces around fixtures, allowing even more heating or cooling to escape. Spray foam insulation fills all spaces, preventing air from escaping. ... Like cellulose insulation, spray foam insulation is significantly more efficient than fiberglass and has a higher R-value.

Where should you not use expanding foam?

When NOT to Use Spray Foam Insulation

1. For areas that are too close to electrical boxes:
2. For areas too close to ceiling light boxes:
3. Open-cell spray foam on your roof:
4. For closed-cavity spaces:
5. If you have a history of skin, respiratory, or asthma problems: