Do You Need A Vapor Barrier Over Spray Foam Insulation?
If you’re just looking into spray foam insulation, you most likely have a lot of questions about this unfamiliar material. Today, the professionals at Foam Bear Orlando are here to address a common question that we encounter a lot which has to do with whether or not you need a vapor barrier over spray foam insulation. The answer isn’t so simple, but we’ll give you a full explanation so you can be smart about insulating your property.
What Is A Vapor Barrier?
You already know the basics of spray foam insulation. It’s an expansive material that fills in areas to provide ample insulation. But then, what’s a vapor barrier? The purpose of a vapor barrier is to offer an added layer of coating that gives spray foam extra protection against water and moisture. Now that you have a solid definition, you see that the concept is simple enough. It sounds like it can come in handy, but is it truly needed with spray foam insulation? That’s where things get a tad more complex, but we’re here to help you understand.
Deciding If Your Spray Foam Needs A Vapor Barrier
Air naturally carries water, and so any air that passes through insulation can transfer that moisture to the material that it penetrates. Based on that fact, it’s important to know the difference between closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation so you can determine when you should be using a vapor barrier.
Your Closed-Cell Foam May Not Need It
Closed-cell spray foam is so tightly packed (hence the name) that you don’t need to worry so much about air or water piercing through the surface. So then, it goes without saying that closed-cell spray foam insulation can operate without the need for extra protection from a vapor barrier.
Protection For Open-Cell Foam Is Situational
When it comes to open-cell spray foam, the need for a vapor barrier is situational. This type of spray foam isn’t as dense as its closed-cell counterpart and so it’s more likely that air and moisture will pass through. However, there are some open-cell spray foam products that are able to absorb and dry out moisture before they can cause any damage. Even still, a vapor barrier can help open-cell foam last longer by avoiding that occurrence in the first place. In some areas, vapor barriers are required anyway.
When In Doubt, Ask A Professional!
If you’re still confused about whether or not you need a vapor barrier for your spray foam insulation, you can’t go wrong with personally contacting a professional. Spray foam experts like the ones at Foam Bear Orlando can inspect your property and recommend the best type of spray foam while suggesting a vapor barrier if one is needed. That way, you can leave the guesswork out of it and enjoy an optimal living environment!
Call Foam Bear Orlando For Spray Foam Experts Near You
Contact the professionals at Foam Bear Orlando today at (727) 580-1090 for a free quote on our products and services! We know how to equip your property with the best spray foam insulation for you to bring you the best results.