Foam Bear, Author at Foam Bear

Does Rockwool Or Spray Foam Have A Better R-Value?

R-value is the primary way to measure thermal and heat transfer resistance between insulation materials. So, then, which type of insulation has the better R-value between rockwool and spray foam for optimal performance? Your search is over, because we have the answer for you right here! After learning more about which is the better choice for you, reach out to Foam Bear Orlando today to ask for a free estimate on quality spray foam insulation near you.

What Is Rockwool? (Not the Insulation You Were Hoping For)

There is a good handful of homeowners in Orlando who have their eyes on rockwool insulation as a potential choice for their property. What is it about rockwool that has them interested? Also known as stone wool insulation, rockwool is made up of a composition of rocks like basalt and slag.

Many people believe these naturally occurring rocks to be an environmentally-friendly way to insulate their homes, but the R-value of rockwool insulation is practically half of what spray foam insulation offers.

Did You Know? Rockwool Insulation Can Cause:

Respiratory problems

Skin and eye irritation

Polluted air in the home

Possible carcinogen

R-Value Showdown – Rockwool vs. Closed-Cell Spray Foam

We already revealed that the R-value of rockwool insulation doesn’t quite match that of spray foam insulation, but let’s take a closer look at the numbers so you have a better idea of the vast difference in thermal resistance between these materials:

Closed-cell spray foam has an R-value of R-6 to R-7 per square inch.

Open-cell spray foam has an R-value of R-3.5 to R-4 per square inch.

Rockwool insulation has an R-value of R-3.1 to R-4 per square inch.

You can see that rockwool and open-cell foam are fairly similar in R-value, but don’t forget, spray foam comes with additional traits like air-sealing and moisture resistance that competing materials don’t have. And for the highest R-value, nothing beats the more dense closed-cell spray foam variety, which makes it a popular choice for Orlando homes.

Bonus Round: Comparing Additional Qualities

Spray foam insulation can do more than your typical insulation materials, mostly thanks to its ability to grow and expand upon application. You won’t find these extra benefits in rockwool insulation!

Here’s what else spray foam insulation can do for your Orlando home:

Create an effective air barrier with an air-tight seal that prevents air leaks.

Completely repel moisture to prevent mold and mildew inside the home.

Provide a longer lifespan for a long-term investment and cost savings.

Save you time with a simple and stress-free installation.

Rockwool can become easily damaged in Orlando, which is why it’s not considered as cost-effective as spray foam. Learn more about how spray foam insulation is a smart long-term investment in our in-depth guide!

Should You Combine Different Types Of Insulation?

Countless Orlando homeowners are out there getting crafty by mixing different types of insulation, or so they think. You might have heard of people lining fiberglass batt and roll with foam boards, or even DIYing spray foam to touch up their existing fiberglass or blown-in insulation. While it may sound like a smart idea, it’s anything but. Handling insulation improperly by mixing it up can lead to serious issues with moisture, performance, and safety. We’re here to fill you in on safe practices for a comfortable home and reliable insulation!

Looking for premium insulation you can count on? Reach out to Foam Bear Orlando today to get started on a free estimate.

Mixed Insulation Can Trap Moisture In the Home

How does mixing insulation collect moisture? By layering different types of materials, all with varying levels of moisture resistance, it’s entirely possible for moisture to pass through one type of insulation and be blocked by the other. This causes water to wedge its way between layers and build up over time. This is a fast track to mold and mildew in places where you wouldn’t think to check.

To ensure that your insulation repels moisture like it should in humid climates like Orlando, it’s better to rely solely on top-notch spray foam insulation with optimal moisture resistance.

Conflicting Insulation Materials Impacts Thermal Performance

Just like how different types of insulation have varying levels of moisture resistance, each material also comes with drastically different thermal ratings. These materials can interfere with each other through conflicting thermal performance, leading to poor results overall. For example, spray foam offers the highest R-value for residential insulation in Orlando. But if you layer spray foam over old fiberglass insulation, the older material can contaminate your new foam. Your attempt at reinforced insulation will then backfire and cost you more in energy usage.

Forcing Incompatible Insulation Can Create Safety Hazards

Outdated insulation with traditional materials like fiberglass or cellulose is highly flammable. This risk doesn’t go away just by covering it up with fire-resistant insulation like spray foam. If anything, you’re permanently cementing these flammable materials in tight spaces, trapping imminent danger where you can no longer reach it. Sticking with just spray foam insulation for your Orlando home is a great way to guarantee optimal fire resistance that will save you precious seconds in case of an emergency.

Introducing Different Insulation Can Negate Warranties

Arguably, one of the worst mistakes of mixing insulation is voiding your warranties. Premium spray foam products in Orlando often come with outstanding warranties as long as you go through a qualified professional. By DIYing your insulation and getting other materials involved, the manufacturer won’t feel obligated to reimburse you if anything goes wrong. After all, it would be your decision to tamper with their product, and not a factory defect from their end, that will be the cause of poor performance in your home.

Better Ways to Meet Your Home’s Unique Needs With Spray Foam Insulation

With so many downsides, what would compel someone to combine different types of insulation in the first place? Many homeowners are misguided into thinking that mixed insulation can solve most problems around the house, like fluctuating temperatures, drafts, and air leaks in general. Sometimes, the concern lies with finding products that can insulate different types of house materials found in Orlando properties.

In any case, layering insulation isn’t the answer. But rather, the answer lies in relying on top-notch spray foam insulation from trusted contractors like the ones at Foam Bear!

Need An Upgrade? Trust Your Local Insulation Experts at Foam Bear Orlando!

For top-performing insulation, contact Foam Bear Orlando today at (407) 334-9327 to get a free estimate on high-grade spray foam products near you! We handle everything from vacuum and removal services to expert installation and more, so you can rest easy with reliable insulation that’ll last you a lifetime.

Author: Foam Bear

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