Spray Solutions
Frequently asked questions


1
How much does spray foam insulation cost?
Spray foam insulation cost is generally broken down by square foot and varies in thickness between the various types. Generally speaking, open-cell spray foam will cost generally between $1 and $1.50 per square foot, while closed-cell insulation generally runs between $2 and $3 per square foot.
2
Is spray foam really worth it?
Yes, there are numerous benefits to utilizing spray foam insulation for your various projects and applications. From an energy-saving perspective, there is little doubt that spray foam insulation is a big money saver. Closed-cell insulation is dense, so when applied to walls and ceilings it can serve a variety of purposes ranging from temperature retention to waterproofing, and even structure stabilization and reinforcement.
On the other hand, open-cell spray foam is a more affordable option, and it expands quickly, filling up the cracks and crevices. Considering its status as being water-resistant, it is highly effective only when there is no chance of moisture seeping in. Its sealing ability does serve as a powerful barrier against insects and pests coming into the home, however.
Spray foam is commonly used in residences and industrial structures and is especially effective as a retrofit product in aging homes. Because the foam is spray applied, almost all substrates are suitable to receive spray foam. Caution should be taken to prevent overfilling areas from causing damage through the force of the expansion.
3
closed cell vs open cell
CLOSED CELL spray foam is also highly resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it an excellent choice for damp or humid environments. Additionally, it can serve as structural reinforcement, adding rigidity and strength to a building. It has a high r-value of R-8 per inch.
We recommend using closed-cell insulation in areas where space is limited, such as shops, garages, or any locations where the foam might come into contact with moisture.
OPEN CELL spray foam insulation is a lightweight, low-density foam composed of tiny, open cells filled with air. This design gives the foam its characteristic soft, spongy texture.
With an R-value of approximately R-4.2 per inch, open-cell spray foam has lower thermal resistance compared to closed-cell foam. As a result, it requires larger cavities to achieve the same insulation performance.
Unlike closed-cell foam, open-cell spray foam is more permeable to water vapor, making it less suitable for damp or humid environments. To mitigate moisture-related issues, we recommend applying a vapor barrier primer to interior surfaces, such as drywall, to protect the foam from airborne moisture.
This type of insulation is generally more affordable and works well for projects with enough space to meet desired R-value requirements.
4
WHAT R VALUES DO I NEED?
Here at Elevate Spray Solutions, we offer spray foam with the highest R-value on the market! Our closed cell spray foam is rated at R-8 per inch. Our open cell spray foam is rated at R-4.2 per inch. We want to ensure our clients are getting the most bang for their hard earned buck.
R-value measures a material's ability to resist heat flow by measuring BTU retention/efficiency (or the reduction in heat loss), indicating how well it insulates. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.
Spray foam insulation works by creating an air seal, which means heat loss occurs primarily through conduction. For instance, an R16 (2 inches of closed cell) insulation level reduces heat loss from conduction by 94%, while R20 (2-1/2 inches of closed cell) by 95%, R24 (3 inches of closed cell) cuts it by 96%, R40 (5 inches of closed cell) by 98%, and R48 (6 inches of closed cell) by 98.3%. See the BTU Retention /Effi.
In our North Idaho climate zone, the minimum required R-value for ceilings or rooflines is R25 (3 inches of closed cell). This ensures that a thermal break is achieved within the foam, preventing warm, moist air from coming into contact with the colder outside air (think of how condensation forms on something cold—you don’t want that on your ceiling).
Typical custom homes insulation packages usually includes R24 in the walls (3 inches), R38 in the ceilings (5 inches), and R16 in crawlspaces and garages (2 inches). Of course these levels can be adjusted if needed, just let us know, and we can compare the costs difference with you.
For shops or garages that won’t be heated year-round, we recommend 2 inches (R16) which is typically sufficient.
Closed-cell spray foam insulation consists of dense foam filled with tiny, sealed cells containing gas, which gives it a rigid, durable texture and an R-value of R-8 per inch. This type of insulation offers a higher R-value than open-cell spray foam (R-4.2 per inch), providing superior thermal resistance and making it ideal for compact spaces.
5
Can mold grow on spray foam insulation?
One of the primary advantages of spray foam insulation is its moisture resistance. Mold stems from high moisture levels as it needs moisture to thrive. One of the many useful reasons for using spray foam is to mitigate mold growth.
Therefore , mold will not grow on spray foam insulation. Because spray foam reduces the effects of moisture in the areas it covers, these areas experience less potential for mold growth due to decreased moisture.