Spray Foam vs Fiberglass vs Mineral Wool

The two main types of spray foam behave very differently. Your choice depends on where you’re insulating, your budget, and moisture concerns. Open-cell spray foam Lower density, softer, expands more Cheaper per sq ft Great sound dampening Vapor-permeable (breathable) R-value ~R-3.5 to R-3.7 per inch Best for: interior walls, ceilings, and attics where budget and…

Federal insulation tax credits changed for 2026. Here is what is actually available now. The federal 25C credit has ended The Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit (Section 25C), which previously offered 30% of insulation costs up to $1,200 per year, expired on December 31, 2025. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed in July…

Spray foam is safe once fully cured, but installation and ventilation matter. During installation Curing foam releases isocyanates and other chemicals. Professional installers wear respirators and ventilate the area. Homeowners and pets should stay out during application and for the recommended re-occupancy period (usually 24 hours). Once cured Properly installed, fully cured spray foam is…

R-value measures how well insulation resists heat flow — higher is better. Spray foam R-values Open-cell: ~R-3.5 per inch Closed-cell: ~R-6 to R-7 per inch Closed-cell gives more insulation in less thickness — useful in 2×4 walls or tight rafter bays. DOE recommendations by climate zone The US Department of Energy recommends attic insulation of…

Spray foam is one of the most effective ways to insulate and air-seal an American home, but pricing varies by foam type, square footage, and access. Here’s a realistic 2026 cost breakdown. Average spray foam prices Open-cell: $0.45–$0.75 per board foot (roughly $1.00–$1.50 per sq ft installed) Closed-cell: $1.00–$1.50 per board foot (roughly $2.00–$3.00 per…

Spray foam is one of the longest-lasting insulation materials — often the lifetime of the home. Expected lifespan Properly installed open- and closed-cell foam can last 80+ years because it doesn’t sag, settle, or degrade like fiberglass. It holds its shape and keeps performing. What shortens its life Poor installation (wrong mix ratio or thickness)…