Canadian winters can be brutal, so insulation is the best way to keep your home’s heat high and your energy bills low. Insulation can be a significant investment, so you’ll want to know that you’re making the right choice. But how do you know which insulation is the best for your needs?
For most applications, the choice comes down to spray foam vs. cellulose insulation. Both options have pros and cons, so it primarily depends on which insulation option better suits your home’s needs.
Inthis post, we’llreview the differences betweenspray foam insulationand cellulose insulation to help you decide which type of insulation is right for you.
Insulation Efficiency and R-Values
One of the most important factors when picking an insulation material is how effectively it does its job. The resistance that insulation offers is quantifiable by its R-value. R-values determine how well it can resist the flow of heat the higher the R-value, the more effective it is.
Based on the R-value, spray foam vs. cellulose insulation is a tie, as both forms offer an Rvalue of about 3.6. However, spray foam also acts as a sealant, stopping outside air from coming in and increasing energy efficiency.
Which Insulation Is More Affordable?
Another relevant factor whendecidingwhich insulation fits your needs is the price. Inthis case, cellulose insulation is a clear winner, costing around half the square feet price compared to spray foam insulation.
Cellulose may save you money, but it’s essential to consider all the factors to determine the best fit for your home. For example, spray foam for your attic insulation may be a better fit than cellulose.
Is Spray Foam or Cellulose More Durable?
When you buy insulation, you want it to last as long as possible. Spray foam insulation is the best option for durability compared to cellulose.
Spray foam insulation is an excellent choice for an area you rarely access because spray foam insulation is weak against scratches and can break easily. Cellulose insulation is a little more durable in this regard but has a harder time handling moisture.
Barring any extenuating circumstances, spray foam will last longer, but cellulose can still last up to 30 years.
How Easy Is It to Install Spray Foam and Cellulose Insulation?
Cellulose insulation is easier to install than spray foam insulation, primarily due to the necessary equipment.
Cellulose insulation only needs a hopper to install, whereas spray foam needs a specialized piece of equipment and experience to install. If you want to do it yourself, cellulose is the better choice.