Open Cell Foam Insulation Vs Cellulose

Open cell polyurethane foam r 3 5 inch will provide r 28 but more efficient than cellulose allows moisture to flow minimizing moisture issues moderately expensive.

Open cell foam insulation vs cellulose.

Closed cell polyurethane spray foam insulation is a much more dense type of foam than open cell. While the attic floor is a prime destination for fiberglass batts the inside of existing walls is not. Closed cell vs cellulose in cape style home attic trying to maximze the comfort in my cape stlye. The r value for open cell spray foam insulation is roughly equal to the r values for cellulose and fiberglass.

It is a very good air barrier as well as a water vapor barrier. Both of these insulation products carry a 3 6 to 3 7 r value per inch. As compared to spray foam insulation cellulose is cheaper and hence more economical for use in homes. It reduces vibrations within a wall or ceiling to absorb sound and reduce echo feedback.

The r value for closed cell spray foam insulation is significantly higher. Cellulose for attic insulation if the hvac equipment and air ducts are in your attic it is better to install spray foam insulation specifically with open cell spray foam to protect the equipment and ducts. Department of energy recommends hiring a professional installer. It is often used in roofing projects or other outdoor applications but can be used anywhere in the home.

Spray foam has an stc of 39 for open cell and 37 for closed cell. Sound insulation open cell spray foam offers great sound insulation between walls. Close cell polyurethane foam r 6 5 inch will provide up to r 52 does not allow moisture to flow potential moisture issues expensive. Walls would need to be opened up completely to install batts.

It s also not a good idea to try to install it yourself. Actually foam insulation doesn t have an appreciable higher r value than cellulose insulation. Cellulose insulation is composed of 75 85 recycled paper fiber with the remainder being made up of fire retardant matter. It s not only a petroleum based product he explains but it also requires the use of blowing agents.

R value is a indicator of an insulation product s ability to block heat energy transfer. It has a smaller more compact cell structure. Spray foam insulation cellulose. Unless you are doing a complete home renovation and already taking apart the walls upgrading wall insulation with fiberglass batts isn t practical.

Cellulose has the ability to absorb moisture and although it can dry out it still leaves possibility for mold formation. However if your attic doesn t have any hvac equipment or air ducts you should install cellulose installation.