Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Foam Handy Info

Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Foam

Open cell vs. closed cell foam insulation is rapidly gaining popularity among Overland Park homeowners as well as businesses alike. It is made by mixing two chemicals, creating a foam that expands then hardens, forming a barrier that helps keep indoor temperatures consistent plus reduces energy waste. Spray foam insulation done by Overland Park insulation experts is also known for its ability to block out noise, moisture, or even pests, making it a popular choice for those looking to improve the overall comfort and efficiency of their homes or buildings.

If you're interested in learning more about the benefits for your home or business in Overland Park, KS and the surrounding area, look no further than Koala Insulation. Our team of experienced insulation professionals is here to help you determine the best type of insulation for your needs. We provide expert installation services to ensure that your space stays comfortable and efficient all year round. Contact us at (816)929-8255 today to schedule a consultation. Take the first step toward a more comfortable, cost-effective indoor living environment.

What Is Spray Foam?

Spray foam insulation is sprayed onto surfaces as a liquid, followed by expansion to form a solid, seamless sealant layer. It is typically made from polyurethane or another similar material that is mixed with a blowing agent, then sprayed onto the surface to be insulated. The resulting foam provides excellent insulation by filling gaps and sealing off potential air leaks. It also creates a barrier that helps to keep indoor temperatures consistent, plus reducing energy waste.

Open-cell foam and closed-cell foam are the primary types of spray foam insulation. Open-cell is softer, more flexible than closed-cell foam, and has a lower R-value. Closed-cell foam's key difference is the density and rigidity, providing a higher R-value. That said, both types offer excellent thermal insulation properties. They help reduce energy waste and lower heating and cooling costs.

Using spray foam typically requires specialized skills and equipment. That's why you can trust our professional technicians at Koala Insulation because we have specialized equipment and expert knowledge of proper installation techniques and safety procedures.

Additionally, we ensure that it’s installed safely and correctly, preventing any potential health or safety hazards associated with the installation process. Put your trust in Overland Park’s professional team at Koala Insulation to do the job safely and professionally every time.

What Is Closed Cell Foam?

Closed-cell foam insulation is made from polyurethane but with the addition of a different type of chemical makeup for the blowing agent, such as a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) or hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC). This blowing agent causes a chemical reaction, so the mixture expands and creates closed cell structures, which give the foam its rigid, dense texture.

Closed-cell spray foam is commonly used in areas where superior insulation performance is required to seal, such as in exterior walls, roofs, and basements. It's also often used in commercial or industrial settings, which helps reduce energy waste and lower heating and cooling costs.

• R-Value

Closed-cell foam is an excellent choice for these applications because of its high R-value, measuring its thermal resistance. Typically, closed-cell foam has an R-value of around 6 to 7 per inch of thickness, which is significantly one of the highest compared to most other types of insulation.

• Moisture-Resistance

Another benefit is its ability to act as a moisture-resistant vapor barrier. Because the foam is so dense and has closed cells, it doesn't allow moisture to pass through easily. This creates a moisture and air barrier, preventing moisture from entering the insulation as well as causing damage to the building structure.

• Structural Reinforcement

Due to its high density along with rigidness, it provides excellent structural integrity. The rigid, denser material helps to reinforce walls and ceilings, providing additional stability and shock absorption to the overall building structure. It's also highly resistant to mold and mildew growth, which can be a concern in areas with extreme temperatures, high humidity, or moisture levels.

Overall, closed-cell foam insulation is an excellent choice for a wide range of applications requiring superior sealant performance, moisture resistance, and rigid structural support. While it's more expensive than other types, its many cost-saving benefits make it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

What is Open Cell Foam?

Open-cell foam insulation is typically made from a chemical compound known as polyurethane, which is mixed with a liquid form of foaming agent such as water or carbon dioxide. The blowing agent causes the mixture to expand, then creates open pocket cells, which give the foam its soft, sponge-like texture.

Open-cell spray foam is commonly used in areas where soundproofing or noise reduction is a concern, such as in interior walls or ceilings. It's also often used in residential homes in Overland Park, where it provides effective thermal insulation in areas where a high R-value is not required, helping keep the heat in the home.

Also, open-cell foam is a more affordable option than closed-cell foam, making it a good choice for residential applications where cost is a concern.

• R-Value

Typically, it has a lower R-value than closed-cell foam, around 3.5 to 4 per inch of thickness. However, open-cell foam is still an effective insulator that helps Overland Park property owners reduce energy waste and lower heating and cooling costs.

• Noise Reduction

A huge advantage is its ability to provide sound absorption. Its sponge and soft structure can help to absorb sound waves and reduce noise transmission between rooms or between the interior and exterior of a building.

• Flexibility

Weighing only about 1/2 pounds per foot, cubic, this type of insulation offers more flexibility. Unlike closed-cell foam, which is dense and rigid, open-cell foam is lighter-density, soft, and pliable, making it easier to work with in tight spaces. It can also be compressed, which is useful for insulating irregularly shaped pockets or areas in Overland Park homes.

Overall, open-cell foam insulation is a great choice for applications where noise reduction, flexibility, and affordability are important factors. While it may not provide the same performance as closed-cell foam, it still gives an adequate seal and helps reduce heating and cooling costs and create energy savings.

Choosing Between Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Foam? Rely On The Experts At Koala Insulation!

Koala Insulation of South Kansas City is the best choice for Overland Park area residents and businesses when it comes to spray foam insulation for several reasons.

• Our team of experienced, licensed professionals have extensive knowledge plus expertise in the field of spray foam insulation. We use only the highest quality materials and equipment to ensure that it’s installed safely, correctly, and to the highest standards.
• We offer a range of options to fit your specific needs or budget. Our Overland Park team will help you determine which type of blown-in, batt, or spray foam insulation is best suited for your home or business, taking into account factors such as the building's age, size, and condition or your specific energy efficiency goals.
• Our service technicians are committed to providing exceptional customer service from start to finish. We work closely with our clients to ensure that their insulation needs are met, and we are always available to answer questions and provide support throughout the installation process.
• We are proud to be a part of the Koala family, a nationwide network of contractors dedicated to providing high-quality insulation services to communities across the country. By choosing Koala Insulation, you’ll be confident that you are working with a trusted and reliable contractor committed to improving your home or business's energy efficiency and comfort.

If you're in the Overland Park area and are in need of spray foam insulation services, contact Koala Insulation of South Kansas City today to learn more about our services as well as how we can help you save money on your energy bills while improving the comfort of your home or business. Avoid costly insulation mistakes; trust our professionals to do the job right.

Choosing Between Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Foam Is Best Left To The Experts At Koala Insulation!

Spray foam insulation is an excellent option for homeowners or builders in Overland Park looking to increase the energy efficiency of their homes or buildings. With its superior properties, spray foam insulation helps to reduce energy waste, lower heating and cooling costs, plus improve indoor comfort levels. However, proper installation is critical to ensuring the effectiveness and safety of the insulation, so choosing between open cell vs closed cell foam is easy when you rely on one of our technicians to help.

If you're considering installing spray foam insulation in your home or building, it's important to work with our licensed and experienced technicians, who can provide expert advice plus installation services. Koala Insulation of South Kansas City is a trusted and experienced professional specializing in spray foam insulation installation, serving Overland Park, Fairway, Lee’s Summit, and beyond. 

Contact us today at (816)929-8255 to learn more about our services and how we can help you improve the energy efficiency of your home or building.