When it comes to insulating your crawl space, not all spray foams are created equal. Although both open cell and closed cell spray foams are utilized, choosing one might affect your home’s moisture protection, energy efficiency, and structural integrity. The southeastern US has significant humidity, making crawl spaces vulnerable to moisture penetration. Open and closed cell spray foam and their effects on your property must be understood before choosing.
At the forefront of moisture protection and crawl space insulation is Crawlspace Brothers, a company committed to long-term quality. Unlike many contractors who cut corners with cheaper open cell options, Crawlspace Brothers exclusively uses closed cell spray foam for crawl space foundation walls, offering unmatched protection and performance.
Understanding The Difference: Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell
There are two types of spray foam insulation: open cell and closed cell. On the surface, they might look similar, but their characteristics are quite distinct. Open cell spray foam is lighter, softer, and expands more upon application. It’s often used in interior wall cavities where sound absorption and flexibility are important. However, its porous structure also means it absorbs moisture, making it a poor choice for environments like crawl spaces where water vapor and humidity are persistent concerns.
Closed cell spray foam, on the other hand, is denser and more rigid. Once applied, it forms a hard, durable layer that not only insulates but also serves as a vapor barrier. The tightly packed cells make it nearly impermeable to moisture, preventing water intrusion and reducing the risk of mold, mildew, and structural decay. This superior moisture resistance is why it’s the recommended solution for crawl space environments.
Why Crawl Spaces Need The Right Insulation?
Crawl spaces are very humid. This moisture can cause mold, wood decay, bug infestations, and poor indoor air quality if left untreated. Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass batts are often ineffective in these spaces, especially when moisture is involved. Open cell foam, though better than fiberglass in many respects, still absorbs water — compromising its insulation value and leading to potential long-term damage.
By contrast, closed cell spray foam crawl space insulation provides a dual function: thermal insulation and a robust moisture barrier. It adheres tightly to foundation walls and seals gaps where air and water might infiltrate. When applied professionally by a team like Crawlspace Brothers, it transforms the crawl space from a damp, energy-draining zone into a dry, efficient area that protects the integrity of your home.
The Crawlspace Brothers Difference
Many insulation contractors choose open cell foam for crawl spaces simply because it’s cheaper and easier to install. But the cost savings are short-lived. Open cell foam’s inability to resist moisture can lead to major issues over time, including insulation failure, mold remediation costs, and repairs to rotted wood framing. These issues are not just expensive — they can also impact your home’s resale value and the health of its occupants.
Crawlspace Brothers take a different approach. By using moisture-resistant crawl space foam insulation made from closed cell spray foam, they ensure long-lasting protection and performance. Their technicians are trained to apply the foam precisely and effectively, focusing on crawl space walls and rim joists — areas where air leaks and moisture seepage are most common.
This method not only insulates your home but also reinforces the structural integrity of the crawl space walls. Closed cell spray foam adds rigidity, which can even help with minor structural support in certain foundation types. Plus, its air-sealing capabilities contribute to better energy efficiency throughout your home, lowering heating and cooling costs year-round.
Moisture Management And Energy Savings
A key advantage of using closed cell foam in crawl spaces is its moisture-blocking ability. In areas with high ground moisture or frequent rain, water vapor can travel up through the soil and condense on cold surfaces in the crawl space. Open cell foam absorbs this vapor like a sponge, holding moisture close to wooden subfloors and joists — a recipe for decay. Closed cell foam, however, forms a waterproof barrier that repels moisture and keeps your home’s underside dry.
Beyond moisture management, closed cell foam also contributes to significant energy savings. By sealing off airflow from the ground and unconditioned outside air, it helps maintain a more stable temperature in your living areas. This relieves HVAC systems and prevents drafts in inadequately insulated crawl spaces.
A Smarter Long-Term Investment
Closed cell spray foam insulation costs more than open cell, but the long-term benefits exceed it. Homeowners who choose high-performance materials like closed cell foam see better energy savings, fewer repairs, and improved indoor air quality over time. It’s an investment not just in comfort but in the lasting value of the property.
Crawlspace Brothers understands this balance between quality and cost, and that’s why they insist on using only the best materials for crawl space insulation. They provide closed cell spray foam solutions to protect homes from below in any weather or season.