Comparison
Closed-Cell vs Open-Cell Spray Foam
The single most important spray-foam decision is which type to use where. The right answer is never “one or the other.” It’s “the right one for each surface in your home.”
Closed-Cell vs Open-Cell Spray Foam
The single most important spray-foam decision is which type to use where. The right answer is never “one or the other.” It’s “the right one for each surface in your home.”
| Feature | Closed-Cell Higher R-value, vapor barrier, structural rigidity | Open-Cell Lower cost, sound dampening, vapor permeable |
|---|---|---|
| R-value per inch | R-7 | R-3.7 |
| Cost per board foot | $1.50-$2.50 | $0.50-$1.20 |
| Air barrier | Yes | Yes |
| Vapor barrier | Yes (above 2" thickness) | No (vapor-permeable) |
| Adds structural rigidity | Yes | No |
| Sound dampening | Moderate | Significant |
| Best for | Crawl spaces, rim joists, below-grade, cathedral ceilings | Interior walls, attic floors, vapor-open assemblies |
Our recommendation
Most [Cincinnati](/areas/cincinnati) whole-home retrofits use both: closed-cell for crawl space, rim joist, and roof deck (in conditioned-attic designs); open-cell for attic floors and interior walls where applicable. Partner-network installers design every project around your home’s HVAC layout and ventilation strategy.
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We connect Greater Cincinnati homeowners with BPI-credentialed spray foam installers in our partner network. Mon-Fri 7am-6pm · Sat 9am-3pm.