Spray Foam Services

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Open-cell vs. Closed-cell Spray Foam – What’s the Difference?

Open-cell spray foam is lighter and softer, expanding more as it’s applied. This makes it excellent for filling hard-to-reach spaces and for soundproofing because it absorbs noise. It is also more budget-friendly than closed-cell foam, but it has a lower R-value (insulating power) and does not act as a moisture barrier. Closed-cell spray foam is denser and more rigid. It provides a higher R-value, adds structural strength, and serves as a vapor barrier, making it ideal for areas exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. In Florida’s hot, humid climate, closed-cell foam is often preferred in some attics, crawl spaces, sheds and metal buildings because of its superior ability to block moisture and control humidity. While closed-cell foam is more expensive upfront, it offers greater protection and long-term energy savings. In some cases, a combination of both types can give you the best balance of performance and cost.

Attic Insulation

In Florida’s extreme heat and humidity, your attic is one of the biggest sources of energy loss. Spray foam insulation seals every gap and crack, creating a thermal barrier that keeps hot, humid air out and cool, conditioned air in. By insulating the attic, spray foam helps your AC run more efficiently, lowers energy bills, and protects against moisture that can lead to mold or mildew—key benefits in Florida’s climate.

Interior Wall Insulation

Adding spray foam insulation to open interior walls is a smart way to create a quieter, more energy-efficient home. In Florida, open-cell foam is often chosen for its sound-dampening qualities, while closed-cell foam can be used where added strength or moisture resistance is needed. Either option improves comfort by reducing noise transfer between rooms and helping your HVAC system maintain even temperatures throughout the house.

Crawl Space or Basement

In Florida’s hot, humid climate, insulating your crawl space is essential for controlling moisture, improving indoor air quality, and keeping your floors cooler and more comfortable. Spray foam creates an airtight seal that blocks humid air, reduces mold growth, and keeps pests out. While open-cell foam can be used in some areas, closed-cell foam is usually the better choice for Florida crawl spaces because its dense structure provides superior moisture resistance and long-lasting protection.

Metal Buildings

Spray foam insulation is a game-changer for metal buildings in Florida, where extreme heat and humidity can make interiors uncomfortable and cause condensation issues. Closed-cell spray foam is typically the best choice because its dense structure adds strength to metal panels, acts as a vapor barrier, and greatly reduces heat transfer. However, a combination of closed-cell and open-cell can sometimes be used to balance moisture protection with sound absorption. At Sparrow Insulation, we evaluate each metal building to recommend the most effective solution for comfort, durability, and energy efficiency.