Open Cell Foam Vs Closed Cell Foam In Attic

Closed cell foam is much denser than open cell foam.

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 has tiny cells which are not completely closed. Closed cell foam has cells which are sealed off so air doesn t get inside the structure at all. Chemical manufacturer s claim if a roof leaks water will migrate through the foam structure therefore not trapping the water.

Closed cell foam for insulation applications range in density from 1 7 lb cu. Closed cell foam has a higher r value than open cell foam usually about 6 0 per inch. Let s not confuse open cell vs closed cell foam. Closed cell foam can also increase the racking strength of attic walls which.

Open cell foam is just that open cell. With the open cell below right vs. Closed cell is denser better insulating. Open cell is more susceptible to mold and mildew but its expanding so it can hermetically seal an area.

Closed cell below left issue there are two major factors to understand and consider. The higher the density the foam the heavier or stronger it becomes. A foams r value is its resistance to heat flow or in other words how well they insulate. Open cell foams typically weigh in at 0 4 to 0 5 lb cu.

Id go with closed cell. Closed cell foam can be over three times that with a density of 1 75 pounds per cubic foot or more. Roofing applications typically use a 2 8 to 3 0 lb cu. The first is the nature of the foam.

To support traffic and loads better. It is either open cell foam where the tiny cells of the foam are not completely closed. Seems like you wouldnt want to seal something susceptible to mold growth but maybe thats just me.