Closed-cell spray foam offers an R-value of approximately 6.0 to 6.5 per inch of thickness, making it one of the highest-performing insulation materials available on the Quebec market.
Understanding R-Value
R-Value Definition
R-value measures the thermal resistance of an insulating material. The higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation is at resisting heat transfer. This measurement is expressed per inch of material thickness.
Closed-Cell vs Open-Cell Spray Foam
There are two types of spray foam. Closed-cell spray foam offers an R-value of 6.0 to 6.5 per inch, while open-cell spray foam offers approximately R-3.5 to R-3.7 per inch. The choice depends on the application and specific project needs.
Comparison with Other Insulation Materials
| Insulation Type | R-Value Per Inch |
|---|---|
| Closed-cell spray foam | R-6.0 to R-6.5 |
| Open-cell spray foam | R-3.5 to R-3.7 |
| Extruded polystyrene (XPS) | R-5.0 |
| Blown cellulose | R-3.5 to R-3.8 |
| Fiberglass | R-3.0 to R-3.5 |
| Rock wool | R-3.0 to R-3.3 |
Benefits of High R-Value
Less Thickness Required
Thanks to its superior R-value, spray foam requires less thickness to meet required insulation standards. This allows you to save living space while obtaining optimal insulation.
Consistent Performance
Unlike some insulation materials that lose effectiveness over time, spray foam maintains its R-value throughout its lifespan, which can exceed 50 years.
Recommended Applications
Closed-cell spray foam is particularly recommended for basements, exterior walls, roofs, and anywhere space is limited or a moisture barrier is needed. Its high energy efficiency per inch makes it ideal for renovations where available insulation space is restricted.