Open cell spray foam delivers R-3.6 to R-4.2 per inch at $1.50-$2.50 CAD per square foot, while closed cell provides R-6.0 to R-7.0 per inch at $2.50-$4.00 CAD per square foot in North York, Ontario. Closed cell is superior for exterior walls, basements, and moisture-prone areas due to its vapor barrier properties and structural strength. Open cell excels in interior walls and attics where sound dampening and breathability matter more than maximum R-value.
What Are the Key Differences Between Open Cell and Closed Cell Spray Foam?
Open cell spray foam has a spongy, flexible structure with tiny air pockets that remain open, creating a lighter density of 0.4-0.6 pounds per cubic foot. This structure allows the foam to expand significantly during application, filling gaps and crevices effectively. The open cells permit water vapor to pass through, making it vapor permeable.
Closed cell spray foam features a rigid, dense structure where cells are completely sealed, achieving 1.7-2.0 pounds per cubic foot. This creates an impermeable barrier that blocks both air and moisture. The closed structure provides structural integrity, adding up to 300% racking strength to walls and roof assemblies in North York homes.
Temperature performance differs significantly between the two types. Closed cell maintains its insulating properties in extreme Canadian winters, while open cell can experience some thermal bridging in temperatures below -20°C. For basement spray foam insulation applications, closed cell prevents moisture intrusion that commonly affects Ontario foundations.
How Much Does Open Cell vs Closed Cell Spray Foam Cost in Ontario?
Open cell spray foam costs $1.50-$2.50 CAD per square foot for a 3.5-inch application in North York, delivering R-12 to R-14 insulation value. A typical 1,000 square foot attic project ranges from $1,500-$2,500 CAD including labor and materials.
Closed cell spray foam costs $2.50-$4.00 CAD per square foot for a 2-inch application, providing R-12 to R-14 equivalent performance. The same 1,000 square foot area costs $2,500-$4,000 CAD, but requires less thickness to achieve target R-values.
Long-term value considerations favor closed cell for most applications. The vapor barrier eliminates need for separate moisture control systems, saving $0.75-$1.25 per square foot. Energy savings average 30-50% on heating costs in Ontario’s climate, with closed cell delivering higher savings due to superior air sealing. Detailed cost breakdowns for Ontario homeowners show payback periods of 3-5 years for closed cell installations.
Which Type Performs Better in Canadian Climate Conditions?
Closed cell spray foam outperforms open cell in Ontario’s harsh winter conditions. With temperatures dropping to -30°C in North York, closed cell maintains consistent R-6.5 per inch performance while open cell can lose efficiency through convective air movement within the foam structure.
Moisture management becomes critical during spring thaw cycles. Closed cell’s impermeability prevents ice damming issues common in Toronto-area rooflines, while open cell allows moisture migration that can lead to condensation problems. The Ontario Building Code requires vapor barriers in Climate Zone 7A, which closed cell provides inherently.
Freeze-thaw durability strongly favors closed cell. Open cell can absorb moisture during mild periods, then experience cellular damage when temperatures drop. Closed cell remains dimensionally stable through hundreds of freeze-thaw cycles typical in southern Ontario. For applications requiring fire-rated spray foam insulation properties, closed cell maintains integrity longer under thermal stress.
What Are the Best Applications for Each Spray Foam Type?
Open cell spray foam excels in interior partition walls, cathedral ceilings with proper ventilation, and sound dampening applications. Its expansion properties make it ideal for irregular framing and hard-to-reach cavities. The lower cost makes it suitable for large volume applications like pole barns or workshops where maximum R-value isn’t critical.
Closed cell spray foam is optimal for exterior walls, basement foundations, crawl spaces, and any application requiring moisture control. It’s essential for spray foam applications in North York basements where hydrostatic pressure exists. Commercial applications requiring structural enhancement benefit from closed cell’s load-bearing capabilities.
Hybrid applications combine both types strategically. Using closed cell for the first 2 inches against exterior sheathing creates the vapor barrier and structural enhancement, while open cell fills remaining cavity depth cost-effectively. This approach optimizes performance per dollar in 2×6 or 2×8 wall assemblies common in Ontario construction. Ontario rebate programs often require specific R-values achievable with either foam type when properly applied.
Do Building Codes Affect the Choice Between Open Cell and Closed Cell?
Ontario Building Code requirements significantly influence foam selection. Section 9.25.2.1 requires vapor barriers in heated buildings, which closed cell satisfies automatically. Open cell installations require separate polyethylene vapor barriers, adding labor costs and potential air sealing compromises.
Fire code compliance varies between foam types. Both require thermal barriers in occupied spaces, but closed cell maintains fire resistance longer due to its density and char formation characteristics. Coverage requirements in Ontario are identical for both foam types in residential applications.
Municipal inspection processes in North York and surrounding GTA municipalities focus on proper installation depth and coverage. Closed cell’s visual density makes verification easier for inspectors, while open cell’s expansion can sometimes create over-spray issues requiring remediation. Professional installation by certified contractors like Spray Foam Kings ensures code compliance regardless of foam type selected.
FAQ
Can I use open cell spray foam in my North York basement?
Open cell is not recommended for basement applications in Ontario due to moisture permeability. Closed cell spray foam provides the required vapor barrier and prevents moisture intrusion from foundation walls, making it the only suitable choice for below-grade applications.
Which spray foam type qualifies for Ontario energy rebates?
Both open cell and closed cell spray foam qualify for Enbridge and federal energy rebates when achieving minimum R-20 for walls and R-50 for attics. Closed cell reaches these values with less thickness, potentially reducing installation complexity and costs.
How long does each type of spray foam last in Ontario climate?
Closed cell spray foam maintains performance for 50+ years in Ontario conditions due to its impermeable structure. Open cell typically lasts 20-30 years before moisture absorption begins affecting insulation properties, making closed cell more cost-effective long-term.
Can I install spray foam myself or do I need a professional contractor?
Professional installation is required for proper performance and code compliance. DIY kits cannot achieve the consistent density, thickness, and coverage needed for Ontario’s climate demands. Licensed contractors ensure proper safety equipment use and building code adherence.
Contact Spray Foam Kings for a free quote — serving North York and all of Ontario. Our certified technicians will assess your specific application needs and recommend the optimal spray foam solution for maximum energy savings and long-term performance.