is foam board better than fiberglass insulation

Is foam insulation better than fiberglass?

There are several insulation options, but fiberglass and spray foam have become increasingly popular. So, what sets them apart? Spray foam insulation has a higher R-value than fiberglass, making it a better insulator. Another difference between them is that spray foam is watertight while fiberglass cracks under moisture.

What alternatives are there to fiberglass insulation?

• Closed-Cell Urethane foam. Good air sealing and high R-value (R6 per inch conservatively, aged value.)
• Dense-Packed Cellulose: Significant air sealing when blown to density and reasonable R value for cost, (R3.5 to 4.0 per inch).
• Air-Krete, a brand name for a magnesium oxide lightweight foam, which looks rather like shaving crea

Is foam core the same as foam board?

What is the difference between foam core and foam board? There is no difference between foam core and foam board; they both refer to a printing and display board made from a foam core between two sheets of paper. You may also see this material referred to as foamcore, foamboard, paper-face foam, or kappa depending on the manufacturer and region.

What do you need to know about foam board insulation?

Useful Tips

• Keep foam board insulation away from direct sunlight prior to installation; it will degrade its R-value.
• Cover the insulation with a vapor barrier before you install it; all foam boards absorb water vapor.
• When installing the foam, use caulk or tape for maximum insulation between the material and the board or floor.

What is better insulation fiberglass or foam?

Spray foam insulation has a higher R-value than fiberglass, making it a better insulator. Another difference between them is that spray foam is watertight while fiberglass cracks under moisture. However, installing spray foam requires a professional while fiberglass is easy to install yourself.

What are the disadvantages of foam insulation?

Below we are going to list the most common problems with using spray foam insulation in your home's attic or in any area inside of your home.Placement Errors During Installation. ... Potentially Attracts Water Damage. ... The Material May Shrink Overtime. ... Long Dry and Cure Time.

Is foam board a good insulator?

Foam board insulation provides good thermal resistance and reduce heat conduction through structural elements, such as wood and steel studs, according to the U.S. DOE.

What are the advantages of foam board insulation?

Rigid foam board insulation has enormous benefits, including high R-values, continuous insulation wrapping your home, and moisture control. Other benefits include preventing thermal bridging, controlling moisture, preventing air leaks, and using on both sides of the wall or ceiling.

Does foam insulation cause mold?

Foam building insulation, in both spray foam and foam board products, is resistant to mold growth but as we will explain here it is not absolutely mold-roof, and on occasion we do find mold growth on the surface of even closed-cell foam, in open-celled foam (rare), and on th surface of EPS and other foam insulating ...

Is foam insulation in walls worth it?

If you see the benefit of insulating your new construction home correctly from the start for long-term comfort, energy savings month after month, and fewer headaches while you live in the house, then spray foam insulation may very well be worth the extra cost to you.

Does foam board need a vapor barrier?

Foam insulation usually does not require a vapor barrier. For some foam insulation types, such as closed-cell spray foam and foam board insulation, the insulation itself stops the movement of most water vapor.

How thick should my foam board insulation be?

Most panels range between 3/8″ and 2.5″ in thickness, though other dimensions and thicknesses are usually available through custom order.

What is the most efficient insulation?

Spray foam insulationFiberglass insulation still allows for airflow into the attic. Spray foam insulation is the most energy-efficient insulation to create an air barrier in the attic. Certain spray foams can expand up to 100 times its original size, so it fills all of the nooks and crannies in the attic.

Do you have to cover foam board insulation?

Tests have shown that these laminated boards can withstand UV ray damage for a reasonably long time. That said, it's still advisable to cover any foam board insulation exposed to the Sun within 30-60 days at the most. On most projects, that's more than enough time to finish the exterior walls.

What is the R-value of 2 inch foam board?

R-Value Chart for EnerfoilTM Rigid Foam Faced InsulationThickness (Inches)R-value (in I-P/Imperial)RSI (R-value in Metric)1.59.31.622.012.42.162.515.52.73.018.63.246 more rows•Dec 13, 2018

Can you use foam board insulation on interior walls?

Rigid foam board insulation can be used throughout the home, but most often it is found in basement walls. If you are a do-it-yourself homeowner finishing your basement, you might decide to use foam board insulation on the walls behind the studs. This is standard for most basement walls.

Does spray foam insulation cause problems?

It can cause health complications Spray foam insulation is known to potentially cause a few health issues, including: Asthma. Sensitisation. Lung damage.

Why do lenders not like spray foam insulation?

Because getting rid of SPF once it's in place can be exceedingly difficult, often causing even more damage. The main reason that mortgage lenders may initially decline you is because the roof space has been sealed with SPF, which restricts air circulation, leading to condensation and wood rot, as mentioned above.

When should you not use spray foam insulation?

When NOT to Use Spray Foam InsulationFor areas that are too close to electrical boxes:For areas too close to ceiling light boxes:Open-cell spray foam on your roof:For closed-cavity spaces:If you have a history of skin, respiratory, or asthma problems:

Does spray foam insulation cause moisture problems?

While the benefits of spray foam are multifaceted—it can reduce energy costs, increase a home's structural integrity, create a moisture barrier and prolong the life of an air conditioning unit—it can also cause problems.

How thick is rigid foam insulation?

Rigid foam insulation consists of panels sold in 4-by-8-foot sheets in a variety of thicknesses from 1/4 to 2 inches. It is also sold in large bundled panels, joined at the ends accordion-style for use as an exterior sheathing material.

What type of insulation is used for new construction?

On walls with finished surfaces, blow-in cellulose insulation or spray foam is more commonly used to add insulation.

What is the best insulation for a basement?

Home improvement stores carry two major classes of insulation: fiberglass and rigid foam. Both are designed for residential use. While there is some overlap of applications, each tends to have its own best areas of use. For example, rigid foam is commonly used for basement wall insulation because it resists the moisture given off by basement masonry walls. Fiberglass batts are typically used to insulate between wall studs, floor and ceiling joists, and roof rafters.

Why is rigid foam used in basement walls?

For example, rigid foam is commonly used for basement wall insulation because it resists the moisture given off by basement masonry walls.

What is concrete block insulation used for?

Other Uses: Rigid foam can provide soundproofing to interior walls or to sequester interior spaces that are not climate controlled.

Why is expandable foam needed?

Because it is difficult to get a tight seal with rigid foam, expandable foam or caulking may be necessary to fill thin gaps between the foam and framing members.

What is rigid foam used for?

Rigid foam can be used to build temporary privacy walls in shared apartments or dormitories.

Which is better for insulation: fiberglass or foam?

Fiberglass is the less expensive choice for wall insulation and is the simplest to install, which makes it an ideal choice for homes in four-season climates. Foam insulation is much pricier, but it will lead to much greater energy savings, particularly in regions beset by lengthy seasons of severe hot or frigid temperatures.

What is the R value of fiberglass?

Fiberglass has an R-value of up to 3.2 per inch of thickness. A home constructed with two-by-four wood framing will have a 3.5-inch wall cavity that's a perfect fit for an R-13 fiberglass batt. Walls framed with two-by-six lumber present a 5.5-inch cavity, roomy enough for a R-21 batt. Older homes can reach similar insulation values by utilizing loose-fill fiberglass that can be blown in place behind the walls by commercial installers. A key advantage of fiberglass batts for new homes and room additions is that it's a lower-cost product that can be installed without the use of expensive equipment.

What is the SPF of spray polyurethane foam?

Spray polyurethane foam starts out as a two-component fluid that quickly firms into place. Closed-cell SPF provides an R-value of 6.0 to 6.2 per inch of thickness. That amounts to at least R-21 for a 3.5-inch wall cavity and R-33 for walls with 6-inch studs. Closed-cell foam also serves as a moisture barrier and an air barrier, which prevents uncomfortable drafty conditions indoors. For a lower-priced option, open-cell SPF is a moisture-permeable version of the product that offers the same air-sealing capacity as closed-cell foam, with an R-value of 3.5 per inch per inch of thickness.

How does insulation work?

Insulation works by resisting the transfer of heat from warm areas to cooler areas. Its effectiveness is measured in R-values -- the higher the R-value, the better the insulating material's performance. The R-value for walls varies by the type of material, its thickness and its density. To eliminate the risk of deceptive advertising, ...

When was insulation cheap?

When energy was relatively cheap in the early 1970s, many homes were poorly insulated by modern standards. Homeowners today can cut energy costs by following U.S. Department of Energy guidelines on the ideal level ...

Can fiberglass batts be used in new homes?

A key advantage of fiberglass batts for new homes and room additions is that it's a lower-cost product that can be installed without the use of expensive equipment.

Why is foam insulation important?

Foam also helps to reduce noise as it provides a total seal in hard-to-reach areas. This could be important to you if you reside near a busy thoroughfare or airport. Choosing between foam and fiberglass insulation may initially be a cost or budget choice.

What is the best insulation for a house?

Fiberglass insulation is a popular choice in many home insulation projects. However, foam insulation is gaining in popularity and usage. Foam is a polyurethane foam that is sprayed onto the surfaces of walls and ceilings that are being insulated. It expands and hardens as it dries, forming an insulating barrier.

Is foam insulation better than fiberglass?

Many installers will argue that foam insulation is a superior insulator than fiberglass. The greatest advantage that foam has over fiberglass is its ability to expand into areas that may be harder to fill with fiberglass, allowing an airtight seal. Insulating all the hard-to-teach nooks and crannies in your home will result in a significant cost ...

Is fiberglass insulation water resistant?

Foam insulation is more water resistant than fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass actually absorbs water and in time becomes heavy and weighted down by it.

Is foam insulation good for a house?

Areas of the country that are prone to floods and hurricanes benefit more from the use of foam insulation in the home over fiberglass. Foam insulation is fire resistant and acts as a fire retardant, reducing the spread of flames throughout the house in the event of fire. Foam also helps to reduce noise as it provides a total seal in hard-to-reach ...

Can you spray foam insulation in a crawl space?

The foam polyurethane insulation can be sprayed into crawl spaces , tight corners and other hard-to-reach places in the home.

What is spray foam insulation?

Spray foam insulation is chemically composed to be sprayed into everywhere ranging from open areas to tight nooks. As the foam covers an area, it expands getting into small crevices and corners where traditional fiberglass insulation just cannot reach. This helps to seal the cracks in the wood that could potentially allow air permeation.

How long does fiberglass last in the attic?

That’s because fiberglass has an astonishingly long lifespan of 100 years.

How long does spray foam last?

While it doesn’t quite meet the century mark, spray foam is considered viable for a respectable 80 years, far longer than anyone homeowner will need in their lifetime. Unlike fiberglass that is not administered correctly, spray foam won’t settle or sag over time, but it does shrink gradually, giving fiberglass insulation a slight advantage in this category.

What is blown in insulation?

The installation of these loose-filled chunks requires the use of a special blowing machine to distribute the fiberglass evenly across a particular attic surface. This is why it is commonly referred by homeowners as blown in insulation.

What is the difference between spray foam and closed cell?

Open-cell foam is soft and highly flexible due to the air bubbles present inside, making this type of spray foam not fully enveloped. The closed-cell , on the other hand, is a near-total seal, with minimal space in the resulting foam. This promotes a far lower rate of air coming in through the more rigid , denser seal. Closed-seal’s dense nature also makes it highly resistant to moisture permeation, which makes it an ideal choice for those parts of the house that contact the home’s exterior, such as attics.

Is fiberglass insulation good for mold?

In terms of moisture resistance, both fiberglass and spray foam are excellent deterrents of mold and mildew, so this is a category that is truly a toss-up between the two. The ability to resist the overwhelming penetration of water makes either a viable option for insulation use.

Is fiberglass insulation better than spray foam?

Fiberglass does have one particular advantage over spray foam, however. Spray foam requires one application to cover an area, while fiberglass insulation limitations are significantly less. In other words, if you needed supplemental insulation, you can easily later fiberglass batts on one another.

Is it counterintuitive to compress or compact insulation?

It seems counter-intuitive to not compress / compact (stuff) the insulation. The greater the compaction, the greater the conduction of vibration from one side of the partition to the other. Again, we are describing the insulation IN a cavity, not ON a wall. Two different sets of physical parameters.

Can you use closed cell foam for soundproofing?

Hollow, sealed cavities will generate an unwanted resonance. Open or closed-cell foam is a common consideration, but not appropriate for sound proofing. For damping the resonance in the air cavity, we prefer medium density fiberglass, cellulose, cotton, mineral fiber or polyester. All of these are open and “airy” enough to adequately interact ...

Is foam insulation good for sound?

Foams are superior from a thermal perspective, but not for sound isolation. This might surprise some, but when using insulation IN a wall or ceiling, it doesn't get any better than standard thermal insulation in a low/medium density, especially to control low frequencies.

Is open cell foam better than closed cell foam?

Foams are not adequately open. “Open-cell” foam is certainly better than closed-cell foam, but not as high performance as something like fiberglass or mineral fiber. Additionally, foam can “couple” the two sides of a wall or floor, allowing much better conduction of the vibration from surface-to-surface.

What is fiberglass insulation made of?

Fiberglass insulation is made from plastic that is reinforced with extremely fine glass fibers.

Why are foam boards ineffective?

The air bubbles inside expanded polystyrene boards stop heat transfer but can accumulate moisture, which will make it ineffective. The foam boards must be cut exactly to fit the area where it will be installed. If the boards are not cut properly, then air leakage could occur.

What is spray foam insulation?

Spray foam insulation is designed to fill all of the nooks and crannies wherever it is applied, including your basement.

Why is fiberglass in my basement?

Fiberglass in the basement is prone to mold issues as it holds condensation. Because fiberglass batts are air permeable, it doesn’t prevent warm, humid interior air from making contact with the woods studs in the basement. This can lead to condensation and moisture issues.

Is fiberglass insulation good for basements?

Basement Fiberglass Insulation Pros: Fiberglass is inexpensive when compared to other basement insulation options. If you plan to tackle refinishing the basement yourself right down to the insulation, fiberglass can be installed as a DIY project.

Is foam board good for basement insulation?

Basement Foam Board Insulation Pros: Some rigid foam products are water-resistant that can help limit moisture buildup and mildew growth. If the foam board is installed properly , the rigid material can create an air barrier.

Can you insulate a basement?

Well, long story short, basement insulation can make a huge difference, but you have to choose the right insulation. In older homes, the basement many times is left uninsulated. This allows air from the outside to get into the rim joist, basement ceiling, and exposed walls. This lack of insulation will not only make your basement rec room ...

What You Need To Know About Soundproofing

There are some important things to know at this point, to be sure this information is relevant to you at all. First of all, “soundproofing” is commonly misunderstood, or mixed up with “sound treatment.” Especially since both involve working with sound absorption!

What is Fiberglass: A Brief Overview

Fiberglass insulation is actually different from the hard material commonly known as “fiberglass” that is used to make things like boats and bathtubs. That material is technically “glass fiber-reinforced plastic” though it is just called “fiberglass” for short. Fiberglass insulation is more accurately named.

Which is Better for Soundproofing: Foam vs. Fiberglass

This is a surprisingly hard question to answer definitively. Foam and Fiberglass can each outcompete each other, depending on what you are working with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Foam and fiberglass have many overall advantages as soundproofing insulation materials. But many people prefer mineral wool (especially Roxul Rockwool, which is designed specifically as sound-absorbing wall insulation) or cellulose insulation.

Final Thoughts

Soundproofing a music studio or music space is certainly a big job. It’s daunting, and it’s tempting to just rush the process. However, taking your time to understand the process is so worthwhile! It’s much better to over-prepare, than to wish you had done more.

When to use foam board insulation?

Because of its resistance to moisture, foam board insulation is a great choice whenever and wherever there is a chance it could get wet, such as: an exterior foundation, inside a basement against the foundation, and on the outside of a house beneath a house wrap. Foam board insulation is more expensive than traditional batt insulation, so use it only when moisture is a factor and it makes sense with your budget.

What is the best insulation for a batt?

Foam board insulation is a great alternative to the very common fiberglass batt insulation that is in most of our homes. It has a higher R-Value per inch of thickness, it’s resistant to moisture and is easy to work with.

What is polyiso foam board?

Polyiso (Polyisocyanurate). This is an even more dense and more expensive foam board insulation. It provides an R-value of 6 per inch of thickness and often comes foil-faced to help reflect radiant heat. Polyiso comes in several thicknesses and is used over house sheathing underneath siding or in attic spaces where its reflective properties are very effective.

What is EPS insulation?

EPS is used under roofing, over foundation walls and beneath siding. Extruded Polystyrene. This foam board insulation is the rigid pink or blue panels that can be found at home centers in many different thicknesses. It is denser than EPS and provides more R-Value with a rating of 5 per inch of thickness. This foam board insulation is available ...

Rigid Foam vs. Fiberglass Insulation: Major Differences

Applications

R-Values

Foam Board vs. Fiberglass Insulation Cost

• Fiberglass insulation is less than half the price of rigid foam board insulation when calculated by R-value per square foot. For example, insulating a 10-square-foot wall area to R-15 costs about $3.40 to $4.00 with fiberglass insulation. A comparable R-value for rigid foam costs roughly $10. There is also less waste with fiberglass insulation. As ...

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