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Sprayed or foamed-in-place applications of polyurethane insulation, Spray Foam Insulation or (SPF), are usually cheaper than installing foam boards. These applications also usually perform better since the liquid foam molds itself to all of the surfaces.
All closed-cell polyurethane foam insulation made today is produced with a non-CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) gas as the foaming agent. Some polyurethane foam combines with a HCFC gas. These types don't insulate as well as insulation made with a CFC gas, but the non-CFC gas is less destructive to the ozone layer. However, these foams still have an aged R-6.5 per inch thickness. Their density is generally 2.0 lb/ft3 (32.0 kilograms per cubic meter [kg/m3]). There also are low-density open-cell polyurethane foams (0.5 lb/ft3 [8 kg/m3]). These foams are similar to conventional polyurethane foams, but are more flexible. Some low-density varieties use carbon dioxide (CO2) as the foaming agent.
Low-density foams are sprayed into open wall cavities and rapidly expand to seal and fill the cavity. Open cell foam is water-vapor permeable, remains flexible, and requires a vapor barrier in most cases. It provides air sealing and yields about R-3.6 per inch of thickness. Open cell foams require an ignition barrier when applied in attics and crawlspaces, while some closed cell foams such as Dow do not. Open cell foams work well in dry areas, but should not be used in high moisture areas such as crawlspaces or against substrates that tend to sweat such as block or metal siding.
Soy-based, polyurethane liquid spray-foam products are also available. The cured R-value is similar to petroleum based foam per inch. These products can be applied with the same equipment used for petroleum-based polyurethane foam products.
