Difference Between Open And Closed Cell Foam Insulation

Difference Between Open And Closed Cell

Foam Insulation

Brought to you by: Foamation Insulation at www.foamationinsulation.com

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Difference Between Open And Closed Cell Foam Insulation

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Spray foam insulation is divided into two categories, open cell foam and closed cell foam insulation. Even though the two types of foam may appear to be very similar in their chemical structures, they have their differences.

As a user, you will need to understand the differences between the foam materials to be able to determine which one will be suitable for your particular application.




The open cell foam has a density of 0.5 lb per cubic feet. If the foam has a greater density, it is usually stronger. The name “Open Cell” is derived from the nature of the chemical reaction of the foam during the installation process.

During its installation, the tiny cells that make up the foam are usually broken. This causes air to fill the open space inside material, something which results into a spongy or soft material.




The R value of the open cell foam is 5 to 5.5 per inch. R value refers to the measure of thermal resistance which can only be found by determining the ratio of the temperature variation across the heat flux and the insulator.

The open cell foam uses significantly less material, and as a result it will be the best option for someone who is concerned with conserving foam material.



Since open cell foam is going to cost you less material, it implies that the cost of the project will be much cheaper compared to if you were to use closed cell foam.

But this does not mean that it does not have its disadvantages. One of its disadvantages is that it has a lower R value per square inch compared to closed cell foam, and it is also vapor permeable. You will therefore be required to cover it with vapor retardant material.



Closed cell foam also derives its name from the individual chemical reaction. Unlike in open cell foam where tiny cells that make up the foam are broken during the installation, the tiny cells that are created during the installation of the closed cell foam are not broken.

The cells are instead packed together and filled with gas which allows the material to rise and become a very good insulator.



The closed cell foam has a density that is strong enough to enhance the structural integrity of the building it is applied to. It has a higher R value per square inch, something which makes it vapor resistant.

So you will not need to use vapor retardant material when you are using the closed cell foam as it is usually required in the open cell foam.



The closed cell foam has its disadvantages too. Since it has a higher density, it requires more material, and as a result the overall cost of installation is higher. Its products also cost exceptionally high. This cell foam has the highest R value for any insulation material at a value of 7.5 per inch.

There are a lot of things you will need to consider when choosing the type of foam to use for your building.



Be sure to consult a professional in open or closed cell insulation before you make your decision.

Be sure to consult a professional in open or closed cell insulation before you make your decision. You can visit Foamation Insulation for more info.

Difference Between Open And Closed Cell

Foam Insulation

Brought to you by: Foamation Insulation at www.foamationinsulation.com

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Difference Between Open And Closed Cell Foam Insulation