When it comes to spray foam, there are two main options: closed and open cell. If you are looking to renovate your home or simply add in some new insulation, you have probably seen both of these types advertised, and it is easy to be confused about which is which and what benefits they both have. After all, they can't be that different if they are both spray foam, right? Well, the truth is that closed cell spray foam is a great deal more useful than open cell in most situations that you will encounter in America, and here are a few reasons why.
Water-Resistant
Water resistance is important for insulation not only because it is good to have another barrier against the rain that might slip through your roof or walls, but also when it comes to water vapor. You see, water vapor can occur when there are two massive differences in temperature between the inside of your home and the outside. The humidity and change can lead to cold air condensing and forming water, which is very bad for your internal structures such as wooden and steel building frames. Closed cell spray foam does not allow water to get through or form, while open cell can.
Space Saver
If you live in an apartment or building with very fixed parameters and you can't extend your walls or roofing space at all, then closed cell spray foam might be your only option for quality insulation that is dense enough for your needs. It is far thicker and more tightly packed than open cell, which is often the main reason why it is more expensive: you simply get more bang for your buck. This can be a lifesaver for those with thinner walls or barely any attic, ensuring that you don't need to settle for second best just because you have a smaller home.
Tough As Nails
Because they are closed cell and densely packed, this type of spray foam is very rigid and strong, which allows it to last for years upon years with little worry of decay. It can even add a bit of structural integrity, almost as though you had poured concrete in the space instead! Soft cell spray foam certainly does have its benefits, such as the price, but it cannot withstand the same punishment as closed cell sprays, which can be a dealbreaker for many Americans who live in more rugged environments.