Spray Foam Insulation Installation in Murfreesboro, TN
Spray foam insulation is a dual-acting product that insulates and seals air leaks with one step. This insulation foam differs from fiberglass and cellulose insulation by adding R-value and sealing air leaks in one step. As it is applied, spray insulation expands to completely fill the cavity and prevent air leakage.
While air sealing can be added to a fiberglass or cellulose insulation project, spray foam insulation accomplishes both in one pass to help save energy and money. This form of expanding foam insulation can be used in nearly any insulation project.
Spray Foam Insulation Installation
Open Cell Spray Foam
Open cell spray foam and closed cell spray foam both insulate and air seal in one. Open cell spray insulation foam has a lower R-value per inch than closed cell spray foam. Open cell spray insulation is defined as such because when applied, the cells (bubbles) in the foam open. Open cell foam insulation is better suited for some applications than closed cell spray foam insulation.
Open cell spray foam insulation is vapor permeable, can accommodate seasonal movement and is not a food source for mold. B&M Insulation applies ENERTITE® open cell expanding foam insulation from BASF.
Closed Cell Spray Foam
As with open cell spray foam insulation, closed cell insulation foam provides both insulation and air sealing. In contrast with open cell spray insulation, closed cell spray foam is solid—the cells of the bubbles remain closed. This results in a more rigid product than open cell and contributes to its higher R-value per inch. The rigidity of closed cell foam insulation also makes it a top candidate for structural reinforcement helping to strengthen buildings during storms or high winds and making the cost of spray foam insulation a sound investment.
Like open cell insulation foam, closed cell spray foam is vapor permeable, is able to accommodate seasonal shifting and is not a food source for mold. With its ability to deflect water and provide a vapor barrier, closed cell foam insulation works for both interior and exterior applications and is mostly used for metal siding applications or areas that sweat more. Our spray foam insulation contractors at B&M Insulation apply SPRAYTITE® closed cell spray foam insulation from BASF.
The Proof Is in the Math
In a typical wall where 25% of the space is framing, the R-value of the studs and plates has a significant effect on whole-wall R value. This table compares a 2×4 wall insulated with 3.5″ of open-cell foam to a 2×4 wall insulated with 3″ of closed-cell foam, as well as 2×6 walls insulated with 5.5″ of open-cell foam and 5″ of closed-cell foam. The 0.5″ of stud left exposed with closed-cell foam is essentially inside the house, and so doesn’t contribute any R-value, bringing the whole-wall R-values much closer. In a 2×4 wall, the gain is only R-0.8, while closed-cell foam in a 2×6 wall yields an increase of R-1.9. Perhaps you’re wondering, “Is it really worth a $3,000 upcharge for such a small improvement?” The increase in R-value is so small that most builders would be better off looking for a more cost-effective insulation upgrade.
[Click the table below to view more detailed measurements comparing open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation.]
Thermal Barriers for Spray Foam
Don’t delay! Contact our expert team of spray foam insulation contractors at B&M Insulation.
To discuss the spray foam insulation cost and insulation installation for your upcoming project, contact B&M Insulation today! Contact us on our website or call us at (615) 893-3772.