Open-cell foam insulation in Reno NV - a house that stops leaking air and heat

Open-cell fits where there's room for the depth, closed-cell fits where space is tight, and moisture decides the close calls. Open-cell slows heat at about R-3.6 per inch on the R-value scale insulation is rated by, while typical closed-cell foam reaches about R-6 per inch and sets rigid, so it gets to the same level in less depth. Open-cell blocks air but lets moisture vapor through, while closed-cell at typical thickness counts as a vapor retarder, so how your house handles moisture is the question to settle at the estimate.

Installed open-cell spray foam across the US usually runs about $1.50 to $3.50 per square foot, and that's a national range, not our price. Where your job lands in it comes down to what I see on site, and your written estimate gives your own figure. Every job is backed by our satisfaction guarantee.

Federal safety guidance says to plan on at least 24 hours away, and it can be longer because the return time varies by product, by the type of house and by whether children or older people live there. EPA guidance adds that you come back only after the foam has cured and the house has been aired out and thoroughly cleaned. Book somewhere to stay before install day, and ask us for the re-entry time, when it's safe to come home, for the exact product we're using.

Plan as if you might, because the City of Reno says most construction and building projects require a building permit, and applications are filed online. We're based in Reno and work across Reno, Sparks and the cities around them, so before work starts we check which city or county office covers your address, and when the job needs a permit we apply for it. Once an application is accepted you can check its status and pay fees online, and permit questions go to the city's Development Services Department. We're fully licensed and insured.

Tell me at the estimate, because safety guidance says people with asthma, respiratory allergies, skin conditions or a past reaction to isocyanates, one of the chemicals spray foam is made from, should review the product information carefully and, if needed, consider other insulation. If foam doesn't suit your household, we'll plan the job around a different insulation instead.

Ask what finished depth is planned, because Energy Department guidance says open-cell foam needs at least 5.5 inches to count as an air barrier, the layer that stops air moving through. Thin spots usually show up at the edges and around framing, so ask how the depth will be checked there too.