Spray foam insulation reduces heating and cooling costs by forming an airtight barrier that limits air movement, controls moisture, and maintains consistent indoor temperatures. Compared to other types of insulation, spray foam seals gaps and penetrations more effectively, which prevents conditioned air from escaping and outdoor air from entering.
The thermal resistance (R-value) of spray foam is among the highest of all insulation types. Closed-cell spray foam, in particular, delivers R-6.5 to R-7 per inch, which translates to fewer materials required to achieve high energy performance. This level of performance directly impacts HVAC usage, leading to measurable reductions in energy bills.
South Chicago Insulation applies field-tested spray foam solutions suited to both older and newly built structures across varying climate zones in Illinois, especially where seasonal temperature swings are significant.
Spray foam works by creating a continuous insulation layer that eliminates typical thermal bridging and air infiltration. The effectiveness lies not only in the material’s R-value but in its application technique, which ensures adhesion to framing members, electrical openings, and irregular surfaces.
| Insulation Type | R-Value per Inch | Air Seal Capability | Moisture Resistance | Longevity (Years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closed-Cell Spray Foam | R-6.5 to R-7.0 | Excellent | High | 30–50 |
| Open-Cell Spray Foam | R-3.5 to R-3.8 | Very Good | Moderate | 20–30 |
| Fiberglass Batt | R-2.9 to R-3.8 | Poor | Low | 10–25 |
| Cellulose (Blown-In) | R-3.2 to R-3.8 | Moderate | Low to Moderate | 20–30 |
| Attribute | Closed-Cell Spray Foam | Open-Cell Spray Foam |
|---|---|---|
| Density | ~2.0 lb/ft³ | ~0.5 lb/ft³ |
| R-Value per Inch | 6.5–7.0 | 3.5–3.8 |
| Air Impermeability | < 0.02 L/s/m² @ 75 Pa | < 0.10 L/s/m² @ 75 Pa |
| Vapor Permeability | Low (acts as vapor barrier) | High (requires vapor retarder) |
| Application Thickness | 1–2 inches per pass | 3+ inches per pass |
Avoid overspraying. Closed-cell foam expands less and cures harder, making precision critical to prevent structural stress in tight cavities.
Homes in the South Chicago region experience cold winters and humid summers. Spray foam improves thermal stability by minimizing conductive heat loss during winter and radiant heat gain in summer. Retrofit Insulation of older homes with spray foam in attics, rim joists, and crawlspaces often yields 20–40% heating and cooling savings depending on structure condition and HVAC efficiency.
A study by Oak Ridge National Laboratory found that homes using closed-cell spray foam on walls and roofs consumed 30% less energy for heating and 20% less for cooling than homes using traditional insulation (ORNL, 2020).
In crawlspaces and attics, pair spray foam with mechanical ventilation strategies to prevent indoor air quality issues from trapped humidity.
Yes, tighter envelopes can allow for smaller, more efficient HVAC systems.
It depends on wall construction. Injection foam or open-cell options may be used in retrofits.
Closed-cell performs reliably across a wide temperature range; expansion and contraction are minimal.
Yes. Over-insulation without ventilation planning can trap moisture, leading to indoor air quality issues.
Speak directly with professionals who understand the insulation needs of Illinois properties. South Chicago Insulation delivers practical solutions based on site-specific conditions and building codes.
Phone: (779) 803-8025 Email: [email protected]
Spray foam typically lasts between 30 to 50 years when installed correctly and protected from UV exposure.
Once cured, spray foam is inert. Proper ventilation and protective equipment are required during installation.
Most spaces can be safely reoccupied within 24 hours post-installation, depending on ventilation and curing conditions.
Minimal. Inspect annually for mechanical damage or exposure. Repairs can be made with compatible foam kits.
Open-cell spray foam offers moderate sound dampening, especially between interior walls and floors.