Choosing the right insulation is crucial for reducing energy costs, improving indoor comfort, and protecting your property. While fiberglass and cellulose have been common choices for years, closed-cell spray foam insulation has become the superior solution for long-term energy efficiency and durability.
If you’re debating between closed-cell spray foam, fiberglass, or cellulose, understanding the key differences can help you make the best investment for your home or business.
Energy Efficiency & Air Sealing: Closed-Cell Spray Foam Wins
Traditional insulation materials like fiberglass and cellulose can’t fully seal air leaks, which results in higher heating and cooling costs. Gaps in insulation allow air to escape, making HVAC systems work harder to maintain indoor temperatures.
- Closed-cell spray foam insulation expands to fill every gap and crack, creating a complete air barrier. This prevents heat transfer and reduces energy loss.
- Fiberglass insulation does not create an air seal. Small gaps allow drafts and heat loss, making homes and buildings less energy-efficient.
- Cellulose insulation provides better coverage than fiberglass, but it still allows air movement and settles over time, reducing its effectiveness.
Which Insulation Offers the Best Energy Savings?
Closed-cell spray foam reduces energy costs by up to 50%, while traditional insulation options only provide 20-30% savings. If energy efficiency is a priority, closed-cell spray foam is the best choice.
Durability & Longevity: Closed-Cell Foam Lasts Longer
When investing in insulation, you want a product that lasts. Here’s how the three options compare:
- Closed-cell spray foam insulation does not sag, shrink, or break down over time. It remains effective for decades while also strengthening the structure of walls, ceilings, and floors.
- Fiberglass insulation settles, shifts, and loses efficiency over time. It can also absorb moisture, leading to mold growth.
- Cellulose insulation also settles and becomes less effective, especially in humid environments.
Which Insulation Lasts the Longest?
Closed-cell spray foam is the most durable option, maintaining its effectiveness for over 30 years. In comparison, fiberglass and cellulose typically need replacing within 10-20 years.
Moisture Resistance: Protect Your Property from Mold and Water Damage
Moisture is a major issue in attics, crawl spaces, basements, and commercial buildings. Wet insulation loses effectiveness and can lead to mold, mildew, and rot.
- Closed-cell spray foam acts as a moisture barrier, preventing water intrusion and mold growth. This makes it ideal for basements, crawl spaces, and humid environments.
- Fiberglass insulation absorbs moisture, which causes it to lose insulating properties and develop mold.
- Cellulose insulation retains moisture, leading to sagging, decay, and a higher risk of mold formation.
Which Insulation is Best for Moisture Control?
Closed-cell spray foam is the clear winner for moisture resistance. It keeps insulation dry and prevents water damage, unlike fiberglass and cellulose, which absorb moisture and degrade over time.
Installation Process: Which is More Efficient?
The installation process affects cost, time, and overall effectiveness. Here’s how they compare:
- Closed-cell spray foam insulation must be professionally installed. It is sprayed as a liquid and expands into every crevice, creating a complete insulation barrier.
- Fiberglass insulation is easier to install, but gaps and poor fitting can reduce its effectiveness.
- Cellulose insulation is blown into place, providing better coverage than fiberglass, but it still allows air movement.
Which Insulation Offers the Best Installation Efficiency?
While fiberglass and cellulose are quicker to install, closed-cell spray foam delivers better long-term results with superior air sealing and energy efficiency.
Cost Comparison: Is Closed-Cell Spray Foam Worth It?
The initial cost of insulation is important, but so is long-term value. Here’s how they compare:
- Closed-cell spray foam costs more upfront ($3.00 – $5.00 per square foot), but it saves homeowners thousands in energy costs over time.
- Fiberglass insulation is cheaper ($0.40 – $1.50 per square foot), but it needs replacing sooner and doesn’t offer the same energy savings.
- Cellulose insulation ($0.60 – $2.30 per square foot) is more effective than fiberglass, but it still doesn’t provide an airtight seal.
Which Insulation Offers the Best Value?
While closed-cell spray foam has a higher upfront cost, it pays for itself through energy savings, durability, and reduced maintenance costs.
Which Insulation Should You Choose?
If you’re looking for an insulation solution that provides the highest energy savings, strengthens your structure, and prevents moisture damage, closed-cell spray foam is the best investment.
- Choose closed-cell spray foam for maximum energy efficiency, durability, and moisture resistance.
- Choose fiberglass insulation if you need a budget-friendly option for short-term needs.
- Choose cellulose insulation if you want a step up from fiberglass but don’t need airtight sealing.
Upgrade Your Insulation with Midwest Companies
Still unsure which insulation is best for your home or business? At Midwest Companies, we specialize in closed-cell spray foam insulation for residential, commercial, and agricultural buildings. Contact us today for a free consultation and expert installation!