Closed Cell Vs Open Cell Foam In Attic

Open cell is created through lower pressure and as a result has a more open structure.

Closed cell vs open cell foam in attic.

Closed cell insulation can break apart existing structures due to its strength and expansion. Open cell foams use water as a blowing agent. The insulation is blown into the wall or attic one layer 1 at a time. The home builder used 1 2 polyisocyanurate as an interior vapor barrier under 1 2 drywall.

Benefits of closed cell foam closed cell foam is the best choice for robust insulating where space is an issue as it can achieve 2x the r value of open cell inside a standard wall. Some say use open that way you can see a leak before it does any damage others say use closed so any water damage should run off under your roof shingles. This describes the way that the foam looks once solidified. Most insulation contractors are recommending open because it s cheaper and also because if i go with closed cell and the roof leaks it will not penetrate the insulation and could remain stuck between the sheathing and the insulation and could rot the wood and or travel to a more hidden spot of the roof or attic causing worse problems that are.

Closed cell foams use enovate also known as 245fa. Here s a quick summary of open cell vs closed cell foam strengths and the best applications for each. Open cell has an r value of 3 7 and closed cell has an r value of 6 5 based per inch of installed spray foam. It s expanding properties ensure that it covers every little crack and hole but even with that ability it still needs to be installed correctly.

Its rigid nature also adds to the structural integrity of. Open cell foam insulation in my attic area. Open and closed cell foam insulation use a blowing agent to forms the cells within it. The entire home has open cell foam and there s no attic with a complete vapor barrier.

I am getting mixed advice about closed cell vs.