What Is the R‑Value of Spray Foam Insulation and Why Does It Matter?

When it comes to insulating your home or commercial building in Northeast Texas, understanding the R-value of spray foam insulation is essential. At 903 Spray Foam, we specialize in providing high-performance insulation solutions that help homeowners and builders in Sumner, Paris, Honey Grove, Bonham, Clarksville, and nearby areas reduce energy costs and improve comfort.

What Is R-Value?

R-value measures the thermal resistance of an insulation material—essentially, how well it slows heat transfer. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation works to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. This value is critical when choosing the right insulation because it directly impacts energy efficiency.

Spray Foam Insulation: Open Cell vs. Closed Cell R-Values

Spray foam insulation is available in two main types, each with different R-values and applications:

Open Cell Spray Foam:

R-value: Approximately 3.5 per inch
Characteristics: Lightweight and flexible, open cell foam expands to fill cavities and provide an air seal.
Ideal For: Interior walls, attic spaces, and areas where soundproofing is desired.
Pros: Affordable and excellent for air sealing, but less dense than closed cell foam.
Cons: Lower moisture resistance and lower R-value per inch compared to closed cell.

Closed Cell Spray Foam

R-value: Ranges between 6.0 to 7.1 per inch
Characteristics: Denser and more rigid, closed cell foam provides superior insulation and acts as a moisture barrier.
Ideal For: Basements, crawl spaces, exterior walls, and below-grade applications.
Pros: Higher R-value, excellent moisture resistance, adds structural strength.
Cons: Higher upfront cost but offers greater long-term energy savings.

Open-cell spray foam applied to attic and wall cavities for energy savings in Texas homes by 903 Spray Foam in Sumner, TX

Why Does R-Value Matter for Northeast Texas Homes?

Texas experiences a wide range of temperatures, from hot summers to cold winters. Proper insulation with the right R-value helps reduce heat transfer, lowering heating and cooling costs. For areas like Greenville, Sherman, McKinney, and Sulphur Springs, choosing spray foam insulation with an appropriate R-value ensures your home stays comfortable year-round.

How Thick Should Spray Foam Insulation Be?

The recommended thickness depends on your home’s location and construction type. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests insulation levels based on climate zones, which applies to Texas as well. Closed cell spray foam typically requires less thickness due to its higher R-value, whereas open cell spray foam may require thicker layers for equivalent performance.

Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation

Superior air sealing: Unlike fiberglass, spray foam blocks air leaks, reducing drafts and energy waste.
Moisture resistance: Closed cell foam prevents water infiltration and mold growth.
Improved comfort: Maintains steady indoor temperatures and reduces noise pollution.
Versatile application: Works well in hard-to-reach places like crawl spaces and attics.
Long-term savings: Lower energy bills and increased home value.

Why Does R-Value Matter for Northeast Texas Homes?

At 903 Spray Foam, we serve homeowners and builders across Clarksville, Commerce, Ladonia, Bogata, Lake Creek, Cooper, Hugo, and surrounding Northeast Texas areas. Our trained technicians use the latest spray foam technology to deliver efficient, durable insulation that meets your specific needs.

We help you select the right type of spray foam and R-value based on your budget, home design, and climate conditions.

Ready to upgrade your home’s insulation with high-R-value spray foam? Call or text (903) 362-6489 to schedule a free consultation. You can also visit our services page or fill out our contact form to get started.