Pros and Cons of Open Cell Vs. Closed Cell Insulation

LESLIE: Mark in South Carolina is on the line and needs some help defining different types of insulation. Tell us what’s going on.

MARK: I put some Icynene in my house and then I heard someone say that closed-cell was better. And then I’ve heard that open-cell was better. Can you explain to me the advantages and disadvantages of, for my home now, choosing either closed-cell or open-cell insulation?

TOM: What type of Icynene did you put in? Is it open-cell insulation?

MARK: Yes, it was open-cell.

TOM: You know, there’s a lot of debate as to which one is better and I think that both have good qualities. Open-cell has a good insulating value. It’s more susceptible to moisture than closed-cell but it still gives you the benefit of being not only an insulator but an air barrier. So it protects you against drafts that are going to try to get into the house. The other advantage of open-cell is it has better sound-absorption qualities. So it’s a little bit of a quieter house and it tends to be more economical to apply.

So I don’t think you made a bad choice and Icynene is a good product.

MARK: OK. What would be a reason I would choose closed-cell?

TOM: That’s a good question. I would say that if you were in a very high-moisture area, like seaside, then you may want to consider closed-cell.

MARK: Alright. Well, you guys have a great show and thank you for your time and your help.

TOM: You’re very welcome. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.