UNDERSTANDING SPRAY FOAM: OPEN VS. CLOSED, DENSITY & SPRAY FOAM R - VALUE
understanding spray foam
You’re at the right place if you aim to learn about spray polyurethane foam, it’s different densities as well as understanding what spray foam r-value is. Before using a spray foam application on a project, it is important to establish whether you will use .05 lb./cu. ft., open-cell spray foam or 2.0 lb./cu. ft. closed-cell spray foam and understand what spray foam r-value is. The differences are significant when factoring in performance, method of application, and price.
so what is
spray foam r-value?
What is spray foam R-value, exactly? R-value measures how effectively an insulating material can block heat transfer. Thermal resistance refers to a material’s capacity to hinder heat flow through conduction. Various insulation types exhibit R Values. For instance, fiberglass and cellulose primarily impede heat transfer via conduction, whereas spray foam tackles both conduction and convection (air movement).
The R-value of spray foam insulation can vary depending on factors like the product, manufacturer, and other variables. Open-cell spray foam typically offers an R-value ranging from 3.6 to 3.9 per inch, while closed-cell spray foam generally provides an R-value of 6 to 7 per inch.
The contrast in R-value between cell and closed-cell spray foam can be linked to their composition. Open-cell foam is less dense and lighter, resulting in an R-value, whereas closed-cell foam is denser and thicker, leading to an R-value. This comparison resembles a metal skillet (which heats up and cools down quickly) and a cast iron skillet (which takes longer to heat up and cool down).Various factors, such as the type of foam used, the material’s age, and its moisture resistance, can impact the R-value of spray foam insulation. Open-cell foam is prone to moisture penetration, potentially lowering its R-value, whereas closed-cell foam offers better moisture resistance.
For an air seal, it is recommended to use a minimum of 3 inches of open-cell spray foam or 2 inches of closed-cell spray foam. In areas like the roof deck, additional insulation might be necessary; for instance, around 6 to 10 inches of cell or 4 to 5 inches of closed-cell foam could be beneficial.
WHICH DO I BUY?
OPEN OR CLOSED CELL SPRAY FOAM?
When deciding between open cell or closed cell foam it’s important to consider two factors. Firstly understanding the characteristics of each type of foam is crucial. Open cell foam contains cells that’re not completely closed making the foam porous and able to trap air and moisture. This results in an less durable foam compared to closed cell foam. In contrast closed cell foam has sealed cells containing gas that allows for expansion and better insulation properties. The formulation process plays a role in determining the attributes of these cells.
Open cell spray polyurethane foam, also known as half pound foam typically has a density of 0.5 lbs per foot with an R value ranging from 3.5 to 3.6 per inch.
On the hand closed cell foam, referred to as two pound foam usually has a density of 2 lbs per foot and an R value between 6 6.5 per inch.
Closed-cell foam is itself a vapor retarder. It is vapor semi-impermeable. Two and a half inches of closed-cell foam have a permeance of 0.8 perms.
Open-Cell spray foam utilizes water or C02 as a blowing agent. Some open-cell foams, especially those with low density, use bio-based raw materials, such as sucrose or soybean oil rather than petrochemicals. Closed-cell Spray foam uses blowing agents that are hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) with a high global warming potential. Because the global warming potential of these damaging blowing agents is 1,430 times more powerful than carbon dioxide, many manufacturers are swapping to more environmentally friendly Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs).
understanding
spray foam density
When it comes to spray foam insulation, there are three levels of density to consider. Low, medium, and high-density options. Each density serves a purpose and comes with its own set of advantages. Therefore, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with these densities in order to select the suitable type of spray foam insulation for your project.
HIGH-DENSITY
High-density spray foam insulation is known for its structure, requiring an amount of material to cover and insulate an area effectively. This type of insulation uses 3 pounds of closed-cell foam per foot. Unlike lower-density foams, high-density spray foam does not expand extensively due to its denser composition. The R-value of high-density spray foam typically begins at 5.5 per inch.
USES
High-density spray foam insulation is utilized when an extremely high R-value and extra strength are required. It is frequently employed for exterior and roofing applications in commercial or industrial construction.
BENEFITS
High-density spray foam is applied in a steady manner, which results in a seamless application. Because of its impeccable thermal resistance properties, high-density spray foam insulation can immensely help reduce energy costs inside a structure throughout the lifetime of the roof it is applied to.
In addition to its exceptional insulating qualities, high-density spray foam insulation can help safeguard and extend the life of roofing and exterior structures. Once bonded to a surface, high-density spray foam insulation can help lessen wind damage by increasing the structure’s resistance to wind uplift. Plus, it also helps shield the roofing against heat and water infiltration while simultaneously strengthening and providing load support to the structure it is applied to
Medium Density
Medium-density spray foam insulation typically requires 2 pounds of closed-cell spray foam for each foot. It boasts an R-value starting at 5.7 per inch. This type of insulation can serve as either low or high-pressure two-component spray foam insulation. Regarding projects like renovations or new construction, medium-density spray foam is commonly used as high-pressure two-component spray foam. Conversely, medium-density spray foam is generally applied as low-pressure two-component spray foam for smaller to sized areas like around ductwork or piping.
USES
Medium-density spray foam insulation is oftentimes used for continuous insulation, unvented attic applications, and interior wall cavity fill. It is also the most common type of spray foam insulation utilized in crawlspaces and the construction of new homes. Due to its high R-value of 5.7 per inch, medium-density spray foam insulation is frequently used in situations where the maximum possible R-value insulation per inch is needed.
BENEFITS
Medium-density spray foam insulation is known for its ability to withstand stress without breaking, making it a great choice for insulation needs. Moreover, this type of insulation forms a bond with the surface it is applied to, requiring force to detach it from its base.
Further, medium-density spray foam insulation provides low vapor penetration. As such, its insulation markers aren’t typically degraded when exposed to moist environments or rain.
Medium-density spray foam insulation, as mentioned earlier, boasts an R-value. This value indicates the ability of the insulator to resist the flow of heat through conduction, essentially measuring its effectiveness. With an R-value of 5.7 per inch, medium density, spray foam insulation is ideal for compact spaces that demand maximum insulation efficiency in minimal area.
low density
While low-density spray foam insulation acts as an air barrier, it is permeable to moisture and vapor because of its open-cell structure. By permitting for moisture permeability,
low-density spray foam insulation helps streamline moisture control and bi-directional drying when necessary.
The large open-cell structure of low-density spray foam insulation allows it to stay relatively soft and provides some flexibility to the cured foam. This flexibility can be beneficial as it allows the insulation to retain its efficiency even as the structure it is applied to shifts and settles over time. As a perk, the soft texture of low-density spray foam insulation also helps absorb sound in the area it is applied to.
Find Or Become an Applicator?
When starting our business back in 1989 we recognized the potential of spray foam insulation to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs for homeowners and businesses alike. Since then, we have become one of the leading manufacturers of spray foam insulation products in the industry. We specialize in spray foam insulation because of its many advantages over traditional insulation materials. Spray foam insulation is a closed-cell foam that creates a seamless barrier that prevents air and moisture from infiltrating a building. This makes spray foam insulation highly effective at reducing energy costs and improving indoor air quality. If you are interested in learning more about becoming an ArmorThane applicator, please get in touch with us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions.
APPLICATOR NETWORK
ArmorThane’s spray foam insulation products are installed by a network of certified and experienced contractors. We provide our contractors with training and support to ensure that they can install spray foam insulation products correctly and efficiently. We are committed to providing our customers with quality spray foam insulation products and services.
STARTED IN 1989
ArmorThane was founded in 1989 as a manufacturer of polyurea & spray foam coatings. ArmorThane quickly became a leader in the industry, and our products are now used in a wide variety of applications, including construction, manufacturing, and transportation.
