Usually no. Closed cell foam is a vapor barrier. Open cell foam is a vapor retarder, but its moisture permeability properties in our climate are sufficient for most structures. Our building science professionals can advise you as to which type of foam is best for your project. Since both of these products are air barriers, the conditions for cold and warm air to mix, condense, and cause moisture problems, do not exist if installed properly. In some cases, we recommend a spray-on vapor barrier paint, which Energsmart can install, on open cell foam — usually in the Southern Tier of Western New York.
Do I need a vapor barrier with spray foam insulation?
Insulation Answers
- Why would I pay twice as much for spray foam insulation when I could just use fiberglass instead?
- How can R-20 of spray foam insulation outperform R-38 of fiberglass?
- Which product is better, open cell foam or closed cell foam?
- What is spray foam insulation? How long has it been around?
- What are some other advantages of spray foam insulation?
- Can my house be “too tight”?
- Is spray foam insulation a fire hazard? What are its flammability and fire-rating characteristics?
- Does spray foam insulation change physically over time?
- Is spray foam insulation environmentally friendly?
- Why don’t more builders use spray foam insulation?
- At what stage is spray foam insulation installed?
- How is spray foam insulation installed?
- How long does it take spray foam insulation to cure?
- Do I need attic and roof venting?
- Does spray foam insulation have limited uses?
- Can spray foam insulation eliminate moisture problems?
- Do I need a vapor barrier with spray foam insulation?
Code Reports and Technical Data Sheets for Energsmart Foam Insulation Products:
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