• 5861 Queens Ave. NE Elk River, MN 55330
  • Contact Us
Call Your Local Pros Today! (763) 400-8616

Open vs. Closed Cell Foam Insulation

If you’ve been trying to find more information on spray foam insulation, you’ve likely come across the terms “open-cell” and “closed-cell.” These are the two main types of spray foam. But what do they mean and is one better than the other? Which one should you install for your project? Keep reading to learn more about closed- and open-cell spray foam insulation.

Comparing Open-Cell & Closed-Cell Spray Foam

What is the difference between open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation?

Open-cell is a type of foam where the tiny cells are not completely closed. Open-cell foam cells are less dense and filled with air, which gives the insulation a spongy texture and a lower R-value (although it can achieve a greater R-value if not restricted by space). Low-density, open-cell polyurethane foams are similar to conventional polyurethane foams but more flexible. In general, open-cell spray foam insulation:

  • Helps provide an air barrier but doesn’t offer a water vapor barrier
  • Is frequently used for interior walls because it can help with soundproofing
  • Can be less expensive

Closed-cell foam insulation is much denser than open-cell. It has a smaller, more compact cell structure and has a higher R-value per inch. It’s also ideal for achieving a high R-value in narrower spaces. Closed-cell spray foam insulation:

  • Helps provide an air and water vapor barrier
  • Is often used in roofing projects or other outdoor applications but can be used anywhere in a home or building
  • Can be applied at very low temperatures
  • Helps provide wall racking strength in addition to impact resistance

We won’t sit here and tell you one is better than the other—it simply depends on your needs and situation. Our professionals will be able to assess your space and discuss your project, then determine the right solution.

Foam Insulation Installers Serving Minneapolis-Saint Paul

Metro Insulation installs spray foam in homes and commercial buildings old and new, working with homeowners and builders/contractors. Contact us today to discuss your project in the Minneapolis or St. Paul area and get a free estimate!

Products We Install
SEE MORE +
Fiberglass

We install blown and batt fiberglass in homes and buildings.

SEE MORE +
Spray Foam

Our team installs energy-efficient spray foam insulation to keep homes and buildings more comfortable.

SEE MORE +
Waterproofing

Help prevent mold and moisture infiltration in homes you build with our waterproofing services.

SEE MORE +
Insulation Removal

Metro Home Insulation provides home insulation removal services.

SEE MORE +
Residential Garage Doors

We sell, install and service a complete line of steel, wood and aluminum garage doors.

SEE MORE +
Fireplaces

We work with builders to install fireplaces.

SEE MORE +
Bathroom Accessories

Bathrooms are a necessity in every home, but not every bathroom has the ability to impress.

SEE MORE +
Closet Shelving

A closet allows you to better organize your home, giving you a place to put clothes, boxes and other supplies where they are out of sight but easily accessible.

SEE MORE +
Blinds

We work with builders, contractors and homeowners on residential new construction and replacement projects.

SEE MORE +
Shower Doors

We offer a large assortment of framed and frameless shower doors.

SEE MORE +
Mirrors

We offer all types of mirrors, from standard sizes to custom cuts.

Are You Sure?
Stay on Page
You are about to leave this Metro Home Insulation and enter a third-party site. Metro Home Insulation and Installed Building Products have no control over, and accept no liability, obligation, or responsibility for, the contents or performance of other websites. Any such link does not constitute an endorsement or any representation regarding, the linked website, its content, its owner, its performance, its owner’s products or services, or any forward-looking statements found in.
Leave Page
Stay on Page