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Fine Homebuilding Project Guides

Insulation

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  • Air-Sealing
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  • Installing Insulation
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Musings of an Energy Nerd

Open-Cell vs. Closed-Cell Foam Insulation

Learn in which applications it's best to go with closed-cell insulation.

By Martin Holladay Issue 257 - Feb/Mar 2016
Article Image

To insulate 2×4 walls and 2×6 rafter bays, a spray-foam contractor suggested closed-cell foam since I don’t have a lot of framing depth and need to hit certain R-values. I thought open-cell foam was preferred when insulating roof decks and some walls. I’m using closed-cell in the basement, but is it also best upstairs, particularly against the roof deck?

– Kurt McInness, New Hartford, CT

Senior Editor Martin Holladay replies: In unvented roof assemblies, open-cell foam has been associated with damp roof sheathing and sheathing rot, so closed-cell foam is usually preferred for this application. Closed-cell foam has a higher R-value per inch and is vapor impermeable. It also will perform better below or above grade. Cold-climate builders using open-cell foam in an unvented roof assembly can reduce the chance of damp roof sheathing by installing drywall painted with vapor-retarder paint. Hot-climate builders need to heat the attic during the winter and cool it during the summer.

Photo courtesy of CertainTeed

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Insulation

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Choosing Insulation

View Comments

  1. Denzel386 | Aug 06, 2020 04:33am | #1

    Nice foam insertion. it would insulate heat. anyway, I have a bathroom that needs foam designs or marble. And someone recommended me this here's the site. I need more recommendations.

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Insulation

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Energy Efficiency
  • Understanding Energy and Houses
  • Building Energy-Efficient Homes
Air-Sealing
  • Air-Sealing Basics
  • Air-Sealing Tools and Materials
  • Foundations and Floors
  • Walls, Windows, and Doors
  • Attics and Roofs
Choosing Insulation
  • Insulation Basics
  • Material Choices
Installing Insulation
  • Insulating Attics and Roofs
  • Insulating Walls
  • Insulating Floors, Footings, and Slabs
  • Insulating Foundation Walls
Water Management
  • Water-Management Principles
  • Materials
  • Installation Methods

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