What is the R-Value of Spray Foam Insulation?

What is R-value?

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The R-value is a critical number to know when looking at insulation because it measures the effectiveness of the insulation. This number is calculated based on how well the insulation works in a given situation.

Open-cell spray foam has an R-value of about 3.8 per inch of thickness.

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Types of Spray Foam Insulation

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Open-cell foam has a density of .5 lb per ft, one-quarter of the density of closed-cell insulation. It also has an approximate R-value of 3.8 per inch.

Open-Cell

Closed-cell insulation has a density of 2 lbs per ft. Because of its density, closed-cell spray foam insulation acts as an air barrier and as a vapor barrier when installed at a depth of 1.5″ or more.

Closed-Cell

Comparing Open and Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Cost

Both open and closed-cell spray foam insulation is more expensive than other insulation types, such as fiberglass or cellulose.

Advantages

Spray foam insulation is a very effective type of insulation that you can use for nearly any insulation application. It is a mix of chemicals that, when installed, creates incredibly stable and efficient insulation.

Learn about the lifespan and climatic effect on this Spray Foam Insulation