Closed Cell Vs. Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation In Metal Buildings: A Cost Comparison

Metal buildings are popular structures for various applications, including storage, commercial spaces, and residential homes. However, they are often susceptible to heat loss and gain due to their metal panels' conductivity. Therefore, insulation is crucial in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the building and reducing energy bills. Spray foam insulation is a popular option for metal buildings, but choosing between closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation can be a challenge. In this post, we will compare closed-cell vs. open-cell spray foam insulation costs in metal buildings.

Definitions

• Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Closed-cell spray foam insulation is a type of insulation made of polyurethane foam. The foam is sprayed onto the metal panels, where it expands and hardens to form an airtight seal. Closed-cell foam is denser and more rigid than open-cell foam, making it more resistant to water and vapor.

• Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Open-cell spray foam insulation is also made of polyurethane foam but has a lower density than closed-cell foam. The foam is sprayed onto the metal panels and expands to fill the gaps and create an airtight seal. Unlike closed-cell foam, open-cell foam is soft and flexible, making it ideal for use in areas that require soundproofing.

Costs

• Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Insulation made of spray foam with closed cells costs more than foam with open cells. Closed-cell foam typically costs between $1 and $2 per board foot, depending on the metal building's size and the degree of insulation. However, the high cost of closed-cell foam is offset by its superior insulating properties, which provide higher R-values and better protection against moisture and air infiltration.

• Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

With an average cost of $0.50 to $0.75 per board foot, open-cell spray foam insulation is less expensive than closed-cell foam insulation.  Open-cell foam is less dense and less rigid than closed-cell foam, which makes it a less effective insulator against moisture and air infiltration. However, open cell foam is an excellent sound barrier, making it ideal for use in music studios, theaters, and other areas that require soundproofing.

Installation Costs

• Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

The installation cost of closed-cell spray foam insulation is higher than open cell foam insulation. Closed-cell foam requires specialized equipment and skilled technicians to install, which adds to the overall installation cost. Closed-cell foam installation typically costs between $1.50 and $3.00 for each sq foot of metal construction.

• Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Open-cell spray foam insulation is less expensive to install than closed-cell foam insulation. Open-cell foam is easier to install and requires less specialized equipment, which reduces the installation cost. On average, the installation cost of open-cell foam is between $0.75 and $1.50 for every sq foot of a metal building.

Energy Savings

• Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

While closed-cell spray foam insulation is more expensive than open-cell foam insulation, it provides greater energy savings in the long run. Closed cell foam provides better insulation against heat loss and gain, which reduces the energy needed to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building. As a result, the energy savings with closed-cell foam insulation can offset the higher initial cost of installation.

• Open-Cell Spray Foam Insulation

Open-cell spray foam insulation also provides energy savings, but not to the same extent as closed-cell foam insulation. The lower density of open-cell foam makes it less effective in preventing heat loss and gain, which means that more energy may be needed to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the building. However, the energy savings with open-cell foam insulation can still offset the initial cost of installation, especially in areas that require soundproofing.

Closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation are two popular options for insulating metal buildings. While closed-cell foam insulation is more expensive than open-cell foam insulation, it provides greater energy savings, moisture resistance, and better insulation against heat loss and gain. On the other hand, open-cell foam insulation is less expensive, provides good soundproofing properties, and is ideal for use in areas that require soundproofing. The choice between closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation depends on the specific needs of the metal building and the budget allocated for insulation. A professional insulation contractor can help determine the best insulation option based on the building's needs and budget.