Many contractors know that there are many differences between unique types of insulation. This is especially true for spray foam insulation, which has many distinct types and forms for unique applications. When choosing the type of spray insulation for a specific project, it’s important to review each foam’s differences and specialties. Keep reading to learn the differences between the three main types of spray foam insulation and their densities.
Importance of Understanding Density
As a spray foam contractor, you will work with a variety of foam types and densities during your career. The type of material you use typically depends on the project you are working on. Understanding spray foam density is important to the quality of your professional applications. Using the wrong type of foam at the wrong time can result in a poor-quality application and disappoint your clients. Familiarize yourself with the distinct types of spray foam densities and when to use them in practice to perform the best applications. This knowledge will help you receive better client reviews and testimonials, so you can grow your insulation business.
Different Types of Spray Foam Density
There are three main types of spray foam insulation densities: low-density, medium-density, and high-density foam. These materials have unique equipment needs, behaviors, and qualities, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with each before working with them. Each type of spray foam is best suited for different applications and usage—some types provide better support and protection in certain areas than others. Keep reading for a basic breakdown of each type of foam density, its differences, applications, and more.
Low-Density Spray Foam
Low-density spray material is also known as open-cell foam or “half-pound” foam because it weighs about a half-pound per cubic foot. Open cell is the lightest of the different types of foam insulation materials. This type of insulation features open cells that help it maintain its flexibility and softness even after curing and hardening. Open-cell foam creates an air barrier but is susceptible to vapor and moisture permeation. The average R-value for low-density spray foam is about 3.6 per inch. You can apply low-density foams with low- or high-pressure equipment as a two-component material.
Benefits and Applications
Because low-density foam maintains some flexibility, it has more unique application options than other stiffer types of foam. Construction contractors often use open-cell foam for insulation and even noise cancellation. It can help absorb sound thanks to its soft texture, and its flexibility allows contractors to apply it in tight spaces. Thanks to its air barrier, this material is suitable for insulation, but you may want to keep it away from areas where moisture is common.
Medium-Density Spray Foam
Medium-density insulation uses a different type of material known as closed-cell foam. This type of foam has a higher R-value and weight per cubic foot than low-density foam. For example, low-density foam only weighs a half pound per cubic foot, while medium-density varieties require up to two pounds to cover the same space. Additionally, medium-density foam has a higher R-value starting at 5.7 per inch. Like low-density foam, medium-density materials are suitable for low- or high-pressure applications and may come as two-component foam.
Benefits and Applications
Medium-density foam is a comfortable median between the three main types. Unlike open-cell foam, closed-cell insulation creates both an air barrier and a moisture barrier, which widens the conditions and climates where you can utilize it. You can apply medium-density closed-cell foam around ductwork, pipes, or other areas that may collect condensation and moisture. Medium-density foam is ideal for a variety of applications and insulation projects. Many contractors use medium-density foam unless they’re looking for even higher R-values, in which case they turn to high-density foam.
High-Density Spray Foam
High-density foam is another type of closed-cell foam, so it provides high air and moisture barrier capabilities. This insulation also offers the highest R-value, which is ideal if you are looking for high heat resistance and energy efficiency. High-density foam’s R-value starts at 5.5 per inch and has a maximum R-value of 7 per inch. As the name implies, this foam is the densest and doesn’t rise or expand as much as the other types of foam. It is best suited for large-scale projects due to its high-pressure application.
Benefits and Applications
Large-scale projects and applications for high-density foam include everything from commercial to residential insulation jobs. Because of its high R-value, high-density foam provides some of the best energy efficiency for heating and cooling homes. It’s the best at trapping heat indoors during the winter and keeping heat out during hotter months. This dense and long-lasting insulation can even help protect structures from wear and tear and reduce damage from moisture and more. High-density insulation can even be used for exterior projects to provide extra support for roofs, industrial construction, and more.
Where To Find Spray Foam Equipment
The three types of spray foam require various pieces of equipment for insulation jobs. For example, low- or high-pressure systems can accommodate both low-density and some medium-density foams. However, high-density material is only compatible with high-pressure equipment. You may need unique equipment depending on the type of foam you wish to work with. Whether you are looking for high-pressure or low pressure spray foam machines, you can find a variety of equipment at Spray Foam Systems. We carry everything you need for insulation jobs, no matter which spray foam density you use.
When it comes to choosing the best foam density for your insulation job, remember the benefits and differences of each type of spray foam. Knowing these differences will allow you to choose the best type of foam for the project you are working on that will meet your client’s needs. If you need commercial insulation equipment suitable for working with a new type of insulation, browse our selection of spray foam rigs, systems, accessories, and more, here at Spray Foam Systems. We’ll help you find the equipment your business might be missing to get the job done.
