Closed Cell Foam Insulation

Why You Should Choose Closed-Cell Foam Insulation

Nowadays, more and more people are going for the aid of foam insulation products. Why? Well, if you're still not aware, insulation creates a living space that is comfortable, healthy and energy efficient. If you are dealing with financial problems due to your energy consumption, then it is best to consider some kind of insulation solution. With foam insulation installed in your home, you can always control heat or temperature as well as indoor air quality for improved comfort. Besides, most people choose to incorporate insulation solutions so they can become more energy-efficient.

There are various types of foam insulation. The most preferred is the spray foam and it is classified as open-cell (isocyanurate) and closed cell (polyurethane). There has always been an argument or comparison regarding which is better between the closed-cell and the open-cell. Although the open-cell has been deemed as less superior, the closed-cell too has its own disadvantage. Therefore, its benefits depend on the way it is applied. As you can see, not all structures can benefit from the use of closed-cell foam.

The closed-cell spray foam is best as an air sealing product for residential wall and ceiling cavities. As soon as it is sprayed via special equipment into wall cavities, it expands to fill all the nooks and crannies in a wall cavity. If you insulate your home using closed-cell foam, mold and condensation problems in your home's interior will be less likely to transpire. The application process builds a flawless, water-proof, and durable building envelope that eliminates drafts by completely filling seams, crevices and cracks. It adds structural strength as it resists water, mildew and fungus. Energy use can be reduced while efficiently keeping heat in during winter and heat out during summer.

The closed-cell insulation foams typically have a higher R-value than open-cell foam. It can attain R-values of 5 to 8 per inch (RSI-0.88 to RSI-1.41 per inch). R-value is a measurement of thermal efficiency. The higher the R-value number, the greater resistance the insulation has to the movement of heat. Its density also varies according to its application but ranges from medium to high density. For insulation applications, it ranges from 1.7 lb./cu. ft. to 2.0 lb./cu. Ft; and for roofing applications, the typically-used is a 2.8 to 3.0+ lb./cu. ft. to support traffic and loads better. The higher the density the foam, the heavier, or stronger it becomes.

Polyethylene Foam or PE in the shape of a closed cell foam sheet is strong and resistant enough to be used for shock absorbing, vibration dampening, and loose fill. This type of sheets are therefore not only used for insulation, but also for e.g. buoyancy and cushioning purposes. Apart from being an insulation option with low thermal conductivity, this type of material is also lightweight (low in density), non-absorptive and resilient agains damage from UV, aging, heat and fire - useful for example for tubes for pipe insulation.

Moreover, closed-cell foam helps avert unrestrained outdoor air penetration and the infiltration of dust, pollen and other allergens. Though it's more expensive as the traditional ones, it virtually pays for itself after three to five years in the form of greater energy efficiency savings. The insulation material can help you save 50 to 75 percent in annual energy costs. Thus, for a more comfortable, energy-efficient home, it is best to consider having the right and top quality insulation materials.