Resist heat flow
Insulation slows heat moving through a building’s enclosure. Its thermal resistance is expressed as R-value; the product and installed thickness affect that value.
WhiteWall Insulation / Why spray foam
WHAT GOES INSIDE MATTERS.
Understanding the material is part of choosing the right insulation approach. The building assembly, installation details, and intended use matter too.
Request an estimateThe building envelope
TWO DIFFERENT JOBS. ONE CONNECTED PLAN.
Limit air leakage
Air sealing addresses unintended air movement through gaps and connections. Spray foam can provide insulation and an air seal when the selected product is installed to its specified requirements.
Consider the assembly
Insulation, air control, moisture management, and ventilation are connected. A material choice should account for the whole assembly, including how it can dry and how the space is ventilated.
Background: U.S. Department of Energy — insulation and weatherization and air-sealing guide (PDF).
Understand the options
OPEN CELL. CLOSED CELL.
These are different material types, not interchangeable specifications. Product data and the building’s requirements guide the decision.
| Characteristic | Open-cell foam | Closed-cell foam |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Lower-density, more flexible foam | Denser, more rigid foam |
| R-value per inch | Typically lower | Typically higher |
| Vapor behavior | Generally more vapor-permeable | Generally less vapor-permeable |
| Selection | Confirm the specific product, thickness, climate, and complete assembly. | |
General comparison based on the Department of Energy’s insulation guide (PDF). Product properties vary; this table is not a project specification.
Before choosing a product
START WITH BETTER QUESTIONS.
What is the space for?
A living area, heated shop, and storage building have different needs. Explain how the building will be used.
What is already there?
Existing insulation, finishes, visible moisture, and available access all belong in the initial scope discussion.
What comes next?
Clarify the planned finishes, construction sequence, and access arrangements before agreeing to the work.
Good to know
STRAIGHT ANSWERS, BEFORE YOU START.
Will spray foam guarantee a particular energy saving?
No fixed savings should be assumed from a material alone. Results depend on the building’s starting condition, the scope and quality of the work, other systems, and how the building is used.
Does adding insulation remove the need for ventilation?
No. Air sealing and planned ventilation serve different purposes and should be considered together. See the Department of Energy’s weatherization guidance.
Can people stay in the work area during installation?
Plan for restricted access during installation and confirm re-entry instructions for the selected product and conditions. Follow manufacturer guidance for ventilation and occupancy timing. EPA ventilation guidance (PDF) explains these considerations.
How much foam does my building need?
Thickness is a project-specific decision based on the selected product and the required assembly performance. Share the plans or building details so the scope can be discussed; a single thickness is not appropriate for every project.
What if I don’t know which product is right?
You can still request an estimate. Choose “Other / not sure yet” and describe the space in the optional notes. Product questions can be discussed once the project is understood.
Your next step
PUT THE RIGHT QUESTIONS TO WORK ON YOUR PROJECT.
Four quick details start the conversation. Tell us what you’re planning.