What’s the Difference Between Open Cell Spray Foam and Closed Cell Spray Foam?

Spray Foam Insulation, as you probably know, is one of the commonest insulation materials that are used today. Although the upfront costs of installing such insulation are on the higher side, the benefits can be immense - both over short and long-term. This kind of insulation is available in two varied types – Open cell Spray Foam and Closed Cell Spray foam, and the costs for each type can vary. What is open cell spray foam insulation? It is a Spray insulation material with foam cells located slightly farther apart than Closed Cell Spray foam.

What are the Differences?

There are quite a few points of differences, including:

·         Cells - Spray insulation is regarded as Closed-cell or Open-cell based on the variance between the cells, which look like small bubbles, constituting the foam. The cells in Open Cell foam are not encapsulated fully, which makes it softer and more flexible. But the cells in Closed Cell foam are fully pressed together and closed, thus preventing the entry of moisture and air inside.

·         Density – The density of Closed Cell foam is significantly more as compared to Open Cell foam. While the latter, in most cases, has around 0.5 pounds of density per cubic foot, Closed cell foam can be more than thrice of that, having per cubic foot density of 1.75 pounds or even higher.

·         R-Value – The R-value of Closed cell foam is more than open cell foam, generally around 6.0 per inch. However, the R-value is even more for a few closed cell foams. Closed cell foam, with a higher rating, can keep heat better in a structure or out of it. The R-value of Open cell foams is about 3.5 per inch, which makes it unsuitable for extreme temperature conditions. Clearly, the benefits of Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation cost are much more than that of Open-cell Spray Foam.