Open Question

R-value of foam

I am from NH and as a general rule we use only closed cell foam insulation.
Why??
Well closed cell is exactly what it says it is a closed cellular structure. When we talk R-values we are talking aged R-values because when we spray it might be coming out at an R-12 per inch.
Our aged R-value for closed cell foam is anywhere from a 6 to a 7.4 per inch.
The closed cell foam will not absorb moisture,adds structural integrity to the building itself.

Open cell foam is exactly like it states it has an open cellular structure. Where closed cell has a 30% expansion rate open cell hase 100% expansion rate. Open cell has normally about an R-3.5 for an R-value the one thing that makes me leary of open cell is the ability to absorb moisture. In a perfect world you won't have any problems but as everyone knows there is no such thing. If your roof leaks or you have teenagers who shower for an hour. These things can cause mold issues.

As a general rule foam is foam. Why do I say that there is only one patent out there for the blowing agent for foam. But water blown foam is another product and to be honest I do not know eveything I should about it. Just that they do not trap the same gases in the foam and have less R-value as a general rule. When the R-value is better I am all for it.
The soy based foams is another marketing thing as far as I am concerned. They only have a small portion of soy in them. The other foams like Lapolla has sugar beet in them and others have sugar cane. I do not know if they do this to be certified green or it is part of the chemical change over that needs it.

Pour foam or injection foam is a version of foam that is designed to upgrade existing wall cavities. The injection foam is a safe and very good foam product. There is formaldehyde in injection foam but almost the point of being trace amounts. It seems just about any products we buy have it in them including the fruit we eat. Why is that because it is a natural chemical that we actualy need to synthesize to live.

I sell and install 2lb foam/ injection foam/ cellulose/ when absolutely necessary i will do fiberglass.
We offer all the equipment to start people in the business and also can supply materials as well.
If I can be of any help please let me know
The Director/broom pusher

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