Let's talk about the differences between and applicatoins for open cell and closed cell foam.
Open Cell
Open cell foam contains loosely packed bubbles filled with air. It is very light weight, about 1/2 pound per cubic foot, and it is a good vapor barrier above a few inches of thickness. It is not, however a moisture barrier. Think of it as a thick sponge. When dry, it has the consistency of dry pancake batter or the foam inside a seat cushion. It is resilient, so it can be pulled off if necessary and jammed back into place. It will not move or be damaged if you have to replace the shingles on your roof.
Open cell foam is typically applied in 3-5 inch layers If you've been searching for a cost-effective way to make your home more comfortable, open cell foam insulation is an excellent option. Open cell is typically applied to roofs, attic gable-ends and 2x6 walls. It is also absorbs sound so it will make your home quieter.
Closed Cell Foam
Closed cell foam is rigid and very dense, at about 2 pounds per cubic foot. It is incredibly efficient. It creates bubbles using a chemical process and the bubbles do not overlap, which is why it is called closed cell. It is both a vapor and a moisture barrier. Closed cell foam is similar in density to the styrofoam in a beach cooler. As you know, a 1 inch thick styrofoam cooler can keep ice and drinks cold all day even in the hot sun.
Closed cell foam is usually applied in 1-3 inch thicknesses. It is used in crawl spaces to keep moisture off of the subfloor and out of the house and in 2x4 walls. Closed cell foam also has the unique quality of adding to the structural rigidy of a home when applied to walls. Because it is denser than open cell and it uses a different agent to create bubbles, it is more expensive than open cell foam.
Why use spray foam instead of batting or blown in?
The main difference between foam and traditional insulations like batting and blown in insulation (cellulose or fiberglass) are significant.
You don't have to break the bank to insulate your home in the Hilton Head Island, SC area. Learn more about using open cell foam for insulation by calling 843-540-3401 now.