What is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation is a modern insulation material that is applied as a liquid and expands into foam, filling gaps and creating an air-tight seal. It’s known for its excellent insulating properties, ability to reduce air leakage, and moisture resistance. There are two main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is lighter and less dense, making it ideal for interior walls and soundproofing. Closed-cell foam is denser, provides a higher R-value per inch, and acts as a vapor barrier, making it suitable for exterior walls and areas prone to moisture.

How to Use the Spray Foam Calculator

Step 1: Enter the total area to be insulated in square feet. Measure the length and width of each surface you plan to insulate and multiply them together. Add up the areas for all surfaces to get the total area.

Step 2: Input the desired foam thickness in inches. This typically ranges from 1 to 6 inches, depending on your insulation needs and local building codes.

Step 3: Select the type of foam you plan to use: open-cell or closed-cell. This choice affects the coverage per kit and the overall insulation properties.

Step 4: Click the “Calculate” button to generate your results.

Step 5: Review the calculation results. The calculator will provide you with the total board feet of foam needed, the number of kits required, and an explanation of how these figures were determined.

Step 6: Use the results to plan your project and purchase the appropriate amount of spray foam insulation. Remember to always add a small buffer (5-10%) to account for potential waste or uneven surfaces.