Everything You Need To Know To Find The Best High Flame Retardant PU Spray Foam

Is One Type Spray Foam Insulation Best?

Both open-cell and closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation can be effective insulators in different areas of the home. However, most builders prefer closed-cell foam insulation due to its slightly higher R-value and moisture barrier properties. Closed-cell foam insulation has an average R-value of around R-6 per inch. This R-value is significantly higher than most other insulation types, including fiberglass batts, cellulose insulation, and open-cell foam. In comparison, open-cell foam generally has an R-value of just 3.5 per inch. Though this is comparable to other types of insulation, closed-cell polyurethane foam is undeniably the better insulator.

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For many homes, this means that you can reduce the thickness of insulation without sacrificing your home's energy efficiency and thermal performance. Of course, the extra insulating value and the added protection as a moisture barrier comes with a higher price tag. Closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation commonly costs twice as much as open-cell spray foam insulation. However, prices have been falling in recent years.

The main drawback of both open-cell and closed-cell polyurethane foams is their environmental footprint. 

What Are The Drawbacks of Spray Foam Insulation?

Though foam insulation can reduce the amount of energy (and thus carbon emissions) needed to heat and cool your home, the blowing agents included in these foam products can also have an enormously higher global warming potentials (GWP).

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The tiny bubbles or air pockets within polyurethane foam is what gives this insulation alternative its high R-values. However, to create these bubbles or air pockets, the foam requires the use of a blowing agent during insulation.

How Long Does Spray Foam Insulation Last?

Spray foam insulation is exceptionally durable and it is said that it can last for up to 80 years. The main issue or problem arises when open-cell polyurethane foam is installed in areas where moisture or vapor damage can occur. To avoid this problem, opting for the slightly more expensive closed-cell foam insulation can guarantee improved durability. However, it is important to note that as with all newer technologies, we don't yet know how they will perform over the long term.

I was back and forth about using foam board or you product for my crawl space. I was impressed at the quality of the kit and the ease of the application, there is a little bit of a learning curve on the first can with the gun, but that is to be expected for the first time use.

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