Insulation does more than help regulate the temperature of your home. The right insulation material also aids in keeping your home dry and in good shape. That’s why many homeowners look for water-resistant insulation that can hold up to drastic temperature changes without creating moisture issues like condensation or mold. One popular insulation material is spray foam. Is spray foam insulation waterproof? This guide for dry homes provides the answer.

Open Cell vs. Closed Cell

Whether your spray foam insulation is waterproof depends on the type of material you use. In short, closed cell spray foam is waterproof while open cell spray foam is not. This is because closed cell spray foam insulation is a denser material, while open cell spray foam is lighter and expands more. This is useful for filling large areas or insulating corners and crannies, but it doesn’t offer as much protection as its closed cell counterpart. Closed cell insulation, on the other hand, offers stronger resistance to the elements—including water.

The Importance of Waterproofing

Now that you know the answer to “Is spray foam insulation waterproof?” it’s time to ask another important question: do you really need waterproof insulation for your home? Insulation that isn’t waterproof can lead to excess moisture in your home. The accumulated water can cause intense shifts in temperature, making your home less energy efficient. Too much moisture also leads to humidity problems, built-up condensation, and even mold if you’re not careful.

Water can also destroy the insulation itself. When water seeps into your insulation material, it replaces the air that was providing better insulation for your home. Water conducts heat better than air does, which means damp insulation allows warm air to seep in or out of your home. Water can also cause your insulation to deteriorate over time. All in all, waterproof insulation is the key to better energy efficiency and a dry, healthy home.

Finding the Right Insulation for Your Home

At Paragon Protection, we want to set you up with high-quality insulation that serves you and your home well. Work with our expert spray foam insulation contractors in Wauconda and the rest of the Chicago area and contact us today.