Spray Foam: What Do You Really Know?
To get the full benefit of this super-insulation, you must understand the difference between open- and closed-cell foams, how they perform, and how they’re installed.
Synopsis: You might know that spray-foam insulation is an increasingly popular alternative for insulation, and it’s an effective air barrier to boot. But if you decide to insulate your house with spray foam, which type do you choose: open cell or closed cell? What differentiates one from the other? Is one greener than the other? Which is easier to install? In this article, FHB associate editor Rob Yagid explores spray-foam insulation: its composition, its installation, its best uses, and its cost. This article also includes a sidebar with comments from building-science experts Bruce Harley and Peter Pfeiffer, who explain how they prefer to use spray-foam insulation. Additional sidebars explore eco-conscious spray-foam choices, retrofitting with spray foam, and sources for spray foam.
I recently spent a day pulling wire with a friend who’s an electrician in New York. Late in the afternoon, our conversation turned to a client and friend…
Start your 14-day FREE trial to access this story.
Become a member today and get instant access to all Fine Homebuilding content!
Start your free trial nowAlready a member? Log in
