Spray Foam Facts
posted in Blog by Ryan Snider
What is Spray Foam and When Should It Be Used?
Spray Foam Insulation:
Also known as Spray Polyurethane Foam or SPF, is an insulation that is applied as a liquid and then expands, forming the foam. SPF can be either open or closed cell in structure, depending on the density desired. The density will depend on the specific project for which it's being utilized and on its intended purpose and/or desired goal. Special equipment is needed to apply the SPF as well as many months of technical training.
Spray foam insulation saves on energy costs and lowers utility bills. Studies by the US Department of Energy show that 40% of a home's energy is lost as the result of air infiltration through walls, windows and doorways. Buildings treated with spray foam insulation insulate as much as 50% better than traditional insulation products.
What is Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation?
Closed Cell Spray Foam Insulation:
Also known as Spray Polyurethane Foam or SPF, is an insulation that is applied as a liquid and then expands, forming the foam. SPF can be either open or closed cell in structure, depending on the density desired. The density will depend on the specific project for which it's being utilized and on its intended purpose and/or desired goal. Special equipment is needed to apply the SPF as well as many months of technical training.
What is Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation?
Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation:
Open cell is spray applied polyurethane foam that expands 120 x its liquid volume providing superior insulating, air sealing and sound properties. Open cell foam utilizes water as a blowing agent trapping air in the structure of the cells. Open Cell SPF has an R-value around 3.5 per inch and typically uses water as the blowing agent. Open cell foam like closed cell works on all three principles of heat transfer. This is what makes foams superior insulators. As well as a great thermal insulator open cell will provide for excellent sound reduction. Open Cell SPF cells are not completely closed and air fills all of the 'open' space inside the material. In Closed Cell SPF, all of the tiny foam cells are closed and packed together. They are filled with a gas that helps the foam rise and expand and create a greater insulator.