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Open-Cell vs. Closed-Cell Spray Foam: What’s the Right Fit for Your Project?

May 22, 2025

Open Cell Spray Foam |closed cell spray foam | Polycon SPF

Understanding the Two Types of Spray Foam

Spray foam insulation is one of the most effective solutions for sealing and insulating buildings today. At PolyCon, we manufacture both open-cell spray foam and closed-cell spray foam — each designed for specific needs on the job site. While both provide excellent insulation and air sealing, they perform differently when it comes to moisture, structural support, and cost.

Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best option for your next project.

Open Cell Spray Foam: Lightweight and Flexible

Open-cell spray foam is soft, airy, and highly expandable. Open-cell spray foam fills in gaps and hard-to-reach areas with ease, making it a great choice for interior applications where sound absorption and air sealing are key. View our products Hre.

  • Density: ~0.5 lb/ft³

  • R-Value: ~R-3.5 to R-3.7 per inch

  • Expansion: Up to 100x its liquid volume

  • Air Barrier: Yes

  • Moisture Barrier: No

Where It Works Best:

  • Interior walls and ceilings

  • Sound-sensitive areas like media rooms and offices

  • Budget-conscious builds where thickness isn’t an issue

Why Contractors Use It:

  • More affordable than closed-cell

  • Great at dampening sound

  • Expands to fill irregular cavities

  • Easy to work with in tight spaces

Closed-Cell Spray Foam: Dense, Durable, and Waterproof

Closed-cell foam is rigid and tightly packed. It offers higher R-values per inch, acts as a vapor barrier, and adds structural support to walls and roofs.

  • Density: ~2 lb/ft³

  • R-Value: ~R-6 to R-7 per inch

  • Expansion: ~30x its liquid volume

  • Air Barrier: Yes

  • Moisture Barrier: Yes

Where It Works Best:

  • Exterior walls, roofs, and basements

  • Areas exposed to moisture or weather

  • Thin cavities that need high insulation value

  • Metal buildings and commercial projects

Why Contractors Use It:

  • Delivers top-tier insulation in less space

  • Provides moisture control in damp environments

  • Increases structural rigidity

  • Long-lasting and durable

Cost Consideration
Closed-cell foam has a higher upfront cost, but its thermal performance and durability can lead to long-term energy savings — especially in demanding environments. Open-cell foam is a solid choice for cost-effective comfort in dry, interior spaces.

Still Not Sure Which to Use?

Choosing the right foam comes down to your project goals. If you’re insulating a crawlspace, basement, or roof — closed-cell is likely your best bet. For interior walls or soundproofing? Open-cell may be the right call.

Need help deciding? Give us a call. The PolyCon team is here to guide you from product selection to installation best practices.

Ready to boost your home’s energy efficiency with top-tier spray foam insulation?
Trust PolyCon for sustainable, high-performance solutions.
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