Insulation plays an important function in any home. It helps protect you against heat and cold as well as moisture. It can also prevent you from hearing loud sounds from outside or from other rooms. When deciding what kind of insulation to use for your home, it’s worth comparing spray foam and fiberglass. We have talked about spray foam and fiberglass insulation in the past but here are some updated pros and cons to both of these very popular types of insulation.
Spray Foam Insulation
There are two main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell is a light density type of insulation that is useful for irregular surfaces and fitting into cracks. Closed-cell is medium density and heavier, which gives it a higher Long-Term Thermal Resistance (LTTR) value.
Pros
- Provides better overall protection than fiberglass. Insulation is rated by R-value, which tells you how well it keeps heat from entering or escaping. The R-Value of closed-cell spray is about 6.5 to 7 per inch. For open-cell, it’s 3.5.
- Better moisture resistance. It won’t promote problems such as mold and mildew.
- Spray foam insulation, especially medium-density closed-cell, supports the structural integrity of a home.
- Better for sound insulation.
Cons
- More expensive than fiberglass.
- Requires professional installation.
Fiberglass Insulation
Made from tiny glass fibers, fiberglass is one of the most common types of insulation found in homes. It has several benefits and drawbacks.
Pros
- Inexpensive compared to spray foam insulation.
- Easy to install. Most homeowners can install it themselves without hiring outside help.
Cons
- Less effective than spray foam for insulation against extreme temperatures. The R-Value of fiberglass is about 2.2 per inch while spray foam is between 3.5 and 7.0, depending on the type.
- Can cause irritation to the skin and lungs, especially while being installed or if it’s not properly installed.
- Not moisture-resistant. It can crack if exposed to moisture and may attract mold and mildew.
Which Type of Insulation is Best?
Both spray foam and fiberglass insulation have their advantages and disadvantages. Every homeowner has to decide which type of insulation is best. To identify which is right for you, consider your climate, budget, and the way your home is constructed.
Need suggestions or guidance in picking what type of insulation would be best for your home? Contact us now, a member of our team is ready to assist you. Also check out our pervious blog were we give more compressions on these popular types of insulations.
