Understanding the R-Value of Spray Foam Insulation: A Comprehensive Guide

Spray foam insulation is a popular choice for metal buildings due to its superior thermal performance, air sealing, and moisture control. It is available in two types: closed-cell and open-cell.

Closed-cell spray foam

has an R-value of R-7 per inch, while open-cell spray foam has an R-value of R-3.8 per inch. Medium density spray foam insulation requires about 2 pounds of closed-cell spray foam per cubic foot and has an R-value of 5.7 per inch.

This is significantly higher than other types of insulation such as cellulose and fiberglass, which have an R-value of 3.5 to 3.7 per inch. Low-density spray foam insulation acts as an air barrier, but it is permeable to moisture and vapor due to its open cell structure. To create an air seal, a minimum of 3 inches of open cell or 2 inches of closed cell is needed. If used to make an unventilated, air-conditioned attic in a cold climate, contractors must cover the inside of the foam with a vapor retardant. Insulating a roof covering with R-20 spray foam so much exceeds the performance of the R-38 that even in climatic zones where R-49 is required, it also exceeds the performance factor in those areas.

Medium-density spray foam insulation

is frequently used in situations where the maximum possible insulation with an R-value per inch is needed.

Depending on the application, medium density spray foam insulation can be used as low or high pressure two-component spray foam insulation. Medium density spray foam insulation is commonly used for continuous insulation, for unventilated attic applications, and for filling cavities in interior walls. Once you reach the amount needed to create an air seal, you won't get more return on investment by adding more foam because heat takes longer to transfer through the sprayed closed-cell foam due to its denser composition. Open-cell sprayed foam is commonly used on roofs, walls and roofs because it has a low density, expands easily, and an adequate R-value can be achieved for approximately half the price of closed-cell foam. In this article, we will discuss the different types of spray foam insulation and their respective R-values. We will also explore how medium density spray foam insulation can be used in various applications and how it can help you achieve maximum thermal performance.

Types of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation comes in two main types: closed cell and open cell.

Closed cell spray foam has an R-value of 7 per inch while open cell spray foam has an R-value of 3.8 per inch. Closed cell spray foam is denser than open cell and provides better thermal performance.

Medium Density Spray Foam Insulation

Medium density spray foam insulation requires about 2 pounds of closed cell spray foam per cubic foot and has an R-value of 5.7 per inch. This type of insulation is often used when maximum possible insulation with an R-value per inch is needed. It can be used as low or high pressure two component spray foam insulation.

Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation offers many benefits over other types of insulation such as cellulose and fiberglass.

It provides superior thermal performance, air sealing, and moisture control. It also helps reduce energy costs by keeping your home or building at a comfortable temperature year round.

Conclusion

Spray foam insulation is a great choice for metal buildings due to its superior thermal performance, air sealing, and moisture control capabilities. It comes in two main types: closed cell and open cell with respective R-values of 7 per inch and 3.8 per inch respectively. Medium density spray foam insulation requires about 2 pounds of closed cell spray foam per cubic foot and has an R-value of 5.7 per inch which makes it ideal for situations where maximum possible insulation with an R-value per inch is needed.

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