Spray Foam Insulation-Closed and Open Cell

SPRAYTITE is a closed-cell, spray-applied polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation that creates a seamless barrier to air leakage to improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and durability of homes and buildings. This air barrier helps to keep pollutants, such as dust and allergens, insects, and odor, out of the home, plus keeps the conditioned air in, saving money.

How is It Applied?

SPRAYTITE is a sprayed application of a two-component, non-fibrous foamed insulation product. During application, there is a reaction between the two components that creates a bond to the surface as it foams and expands throughout the wall or roof cavity. It dries, cures, and hardens very quickly, and within hours becomes an inert foam plastic material with no off-gassing. This product should always be installed by a trained applicator and is not suitable for do-it-yourself projects.

What is Its Insulation R-Value?

SPRAYTITE polyurethane foam insulation is a closed-cell insulating system with an R-value of 6.6-6.9 per inch.

What Are the Differences Between Closed-Cell and Open-Cell Foams?

There are three major differences. First, closed-cell foams like SPRAYTITE offer an R-value of over 6.6-6.9 per inch, while open-cell foams like BASF’s ENERTITE® offer an R-value of 3.7-3.9 per inch. Second, closed-cell foam is rigid and adds strength to the structure, whether in walls or under the roof deck, while open-cell foam is a softer, non-structural material. Third, closed-cell foams offer greater resistance to moisture in all forms.

Is SPRAYTITE a Better Performing Insulation Material?

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has shown that 15 percent of traditional insulation materials’ effectiveness is lost due to convection loops through and behind board and batt systems. Because the SPRAYTITE is an expanding foam that fills all the nooks and crannies of the wall or roof cavity, it does not allow air to flow around, behind, or through the insulation and outlets, so it creates a more efficient and comfortable home. The SPRAYTITE insulation provides better long-term performance against heat loss or gain, for the life of the structure.

Is SPRAYTITE Good for the Planet?

The SPRAYTITE insulating air barrier material is a formaldehyde- and lead-free formula that emits no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and uses zero ozone-depleting blowing agent technology. Our next-generation SPRAYTITE formulas also utilize low-global warming potential blowing agents. Closed-cell spray foam insulation has been assessed in an environmental product declaration by a 3rd party, with a review of the program operated under ASTM International.

Can SPRAYTITE Be Used in a Chemically Sensitive Environment?

Yes. The SPRAYTITE system does not emit VOCs after it has been fully cured. This product has also been awarded a GreenGuard GOLD certification as a low-emission material. The installed SPRAYTITE product is inert when properly installed by a qualified applicator. All occupants and pets should be vacated from the building during the application and after, the designated ventilation period.

Can It Be Used for Unvented Attics or Ceilings?

Yes, SPRAYTITE is an optimal insulation system for use in unvented cathedral ceilings and cathedral-sized attics. SPRAYTITE does not promote deterioration of the roof sheathing, because a properly designed spray foam application does not allow condensation between the foam and the roof deck. Some traditional insulation systems allow air and vapor to flow through them and can retain moisture that could lead to water accumulation against the underside of the sheathing. SPRAYTITE insulation can be applied without roof ventilation, because it fully adheres to the roof, and is air and vapor impermeable (at over 1.5″ thickness). See the International Codes for additional requirements for unvented roof designs.

Can SPRAYTITE Add Structural Strength?

Studies by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Research Center have proven that closed-cell SPF can add substantial structural integrity and increase racking (shear) strength two to three times compared with standard stick-built components with glass fiber insulation. In addition, SPRAYTITE has been accepted by Miami-Dade County for enhancing winduplift resistance in new and existing homes and structures, providing durability in high-wind storms and hurricanes.

What About Moisture, Mold, and Flooding?

When used as insulation at an appropriate thickness, SPRAYTITE can reduce the potential for condensation and accumulation of moisture. It also eliminates air movement within the wall cavity. Other insulations are more likely to create environments susceptible to mold because they are less successful at controlling air and moisture movement and often do not provide adequate insulation to eliminate condensing surfaces.

Last, it’s important to note that closed-cell SPF and closed-cell plastic foams are the only insulations that FEMA classifies as acceptable flood-damage resistant materials for floors, walls, and ceilings, in its building design criteria for special flood hazard areas (SFHAs).

Are There Any Fire Protection Requirements?

SPRAYTITE insulation meets Class 1 flame and smoke characteristics in accordance with ASTM E84, meeting all major building Codes, including the International Residential (IRC) and Building Codes (IBC). Once installed, it must be covered by a 15-minute thermal barrier for fire protection—typically 1/2″ gypsum board—depending on the application. Check with local Building Codes for final determination, as there may be some small or limited access areas of the home that have exceptions.

Is There a Warranty for SPRAYTITE?

Yes, BASF provides a Limited Lifetime warranty on the spray foam product that is installed in residential buildings. This product warranty, combined with the quality assurance provided by professional spray foam installers, helps homeowners and builders alike feel confident in their choice of SPRAYTITE closed-cell SPF for their homes.

For more information please visit our website at www.spf.basf.com/homeowners.php or visit the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry at http://spraypolyurethane.org/Main-Menu-Category/Consumers.aspx