Open Cell Foam Vs Closed Cell Foam In Attic

The open cells are filled with air and this affects the way the foam feels and performs.

Open cell foam vs closed cell foam in attic.

Open cell foam is just that open cell. Closed cell is denser better insulating. Most open cell foam has a density of about 5 pounds per cubic foot. Closed cell foam can be over three times that with a density of 1 75 pounds per cubic foot or more.

Closed cell foam has a higher r value than open cell foam usually about 6 0 per inch. Open cell is more susceptible to mold and mildew but its expanding so it can hermetically seal an area. Closed cell foam for insulation applications range in density from 1 7 lb cu. It is either open cell foam where the tiny cells of the foam are not completely closed.

The first is the nature of the foam. Open cell foam has an r value of about 3 5 to 3 7 per inch while closed cell foam has an r value of about 6 per inch. Closed cell foam is much denser than open cell foam. Roofing applications typically use a 2 8 to 3 0 lb cu.

Closed cell foam can also increase the racking strength of attic walls which. Id go with closed cell. Let s not confuse open cell vs closed cell foam. Closed cell foam has cells which are sealed off so air doesn t get inside the structure at all.

To support traffic and loads better. Open cell foam has tiny cells which are not completely closed. With the open cell below right vs. Open cell foams typically weigh in at 0 4 to 0 5 lb cu.

Seems like you wouldnt want to seal something susceptible to mold growth but maybe thats just me. Closed cell below left issue there are two major factors to understand and consider. Chemical manufacturer s claim if a roof leaks water will migrate through the foam structure therefore not trapping the water.