Foam Insulation is a type of insulation that uses thermal insulating foam made from a low-density elastomer or polymer to reduce heat transfer between the house and the surrounding environment.
Spray foam Insulation and rigid foam insulation are the most common type of foam insulation. Foam Insulation typically has a higher R-value than other insulation types like fiberglass; hence, foam insulation is preferred over types of insulation.
Spray foam is a chemical product made by the chemical reaction between isocyanate and polyol resin. When both materials are mixed, it causes an expansion that is more than 30 times the liquid volume of both materials when sprayed.
Spray foam is used to insulate air leaks in the home, and it is divided into two types: Closed-Cell Spray foam Insulation and Open-cell Spray foam Insulation.
Both types of spray foam insulation are excellent choices for insulating your own, but they do so differently. The key differences between both types of spray foam insulation will be highlighted in the table below.
| Closed-Cell | Open-Cell |
| The cells are completely closed and pressed together. | The cells are open, which makes the foam soft and flexible. |
| Closed-cell has a density of 5 pounds per foot. | Open-cell has a density of 1.75 per cubic foot. |
| The R-value of Closed-cell insulation is up to R7 per inch. | The R-value of Open-cell is R3.5 to R3.8 per inch. |
| Closed-cell spray foam expands up to 1 inch when sprayed | Open-cell spray foam expands up to 3inch when sprayed. |
| Foam Closed cell retards vapor | Open-cell absorbs water. |
| Closed-cell does not reduce sound waves as much as Open-cell | They are an excellent choice for soundproof |
| Closed-cell foam insulation cost is high. | Open-cell foam insulation is less expensive |