Open-Cell Spray Foam in Vaughan
Air Sealing, Sound Control & Value
Open-cell spray foam (½ lb foam) is the cost-effective choice for air sealing attics, interior walls, and anywhere sound reduction matters. It provides excellent coverage at a lower cost than closed-cell, making it ideal for Vaughan homeowners who want spray foam benefits without the premium price.
Get a Free QuoteWhat Is Open-Cell Spray Foam?
Open-cell spray foam insulation (also called ½ pound or half-pound foam) is a soft, flexible polyurethane foam where the cell structure is not completely closed. Air fills the cells, creating a lightweight insulation that excels at air sealing and sound absorption while being more affordable than closed-cell foam.
Open-Cell Specifications
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| R-Value | R-3.6 to R-3.8 per inch |
| Density | 0.4 - 0.5 lbs/ft³ |
| Vapour Permeance | ~10 perms (vapour permeable) |
| Water Absorption | Absorbs and releases moisture |
| Sound Absorption | Excellent (NRC 0.70+) |
| Air Barrier | Yes, at 3"+ thickness |
Benefits of Open-Cell Spray Foam
Cost-Effective
30-40% less expensive than closed-cell foam—get spray foam benefits at a lower price point.
Sound Absorption
Soft, porous structure absorbs sound waves—excellent for reducing noise between rooms and floors.
Air Sealing
Expands to fill gaps and cracks, stopping air leakage that drives up heating and cooling costs.
Fills Cavities
Expands ~100x, filling irregular spaces and around obstacles better than any other insulation.
Best Applications for Open-Cell in Vaughan
- Attic floors — Cost-effective coverage for vented attics
- Cathedral ceilings — Fills rafter bays completely (in vented assemblies)
- Interior walls — Sound control between bedrooms, home offices, bathrooms
- Floors over unconditioned spaces — Between joists over crawl spaces (with proper vapour management)
- Soundproofing applications — Home theaters, music rooms, shared walls
- New construction — Exterior walls where separate vapour barrier is used
When NOT to Use Open-Cell Foam
Open-cell foam is not recommended for these applications in Vaughan:
- Basements — Absorbs moisture; use closed-cell instead
- Crawl spaces — Moisture-prone environments need closed-cell
- Garage ceilings — Condensation risk; closed-cell is better
- Rim joists — Vapour barrier needed; use closed-cell
- Below-grade applications — Any area exposed to moisture or water
Open-Cell vs Closed-Cell: Which Do You Need?
| Use Open-Cell When... | Use Closed-Cell When... |
|---|---|
| Budget is a primary concern | Moisture resistance is required |
| Sound control is important | Maximum R-value per inch is needed |
| Insulating vented attics | Insulating basements or crawl spaces |
| Interior wall soundproofing | Garage ceilings over living space |
| Separate vapour barrier exists | Vapour barrier is needed from insulation |
Open-Cell Spray Foam FAQ
What is open-cell spray foam?
Open-cell spray foam (also called ½ pound or half-pound foam) is a soft, flexible insulation with R-3.6 to R-3.8 per inch. The cells are not completely closed, which makes it lighter, more flexible, and better at sound absorption than closed-cell foam.
Is open-cell spray foam good for soundproofing?
Yes. Open-cell foam's soft, porous structure absorbs sound waves effectively, making it excellent for reducing noise between floors, rooms, and from outside. It's a popular choice for home theaters, bedrooms above garages, and shared walls.
Can I use open-cell foam in my basement?
Generally no. Open-cell foam absorbs water and is not a vapour barrier, so it's not recommended for basements, crawl spaces, or anywhere moisture is a concern. Use closed-cell spray foam for basement applications.
How much does open-cell spray foam cost in Vaughan?
Open-cell spray foam in Vaughan costs $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot depending on thickness and accessibility. It's approximately 30-40% less expensive than closed-cell foam, making it a budget-friendly option for attics and interior applications.
Get Your Open-Cell Spray Foam Quote
Cost-effective insulation for Vaughan attics, walls, and soundproofing projects.
Request Free Quote Call (647) 613-3626