What It Is

Open cell spray foam insulation uses air-filled cells to slow down the movement of heat and sound through walls and ceilings.

Once applied and cured, it has a soft, spongy texture that allows it to expand significantly and reach tight areas with ease.

Open cell foam insulation typically offers an R-value of up to R-3.6 per inch and has a low density of about 0.4 to 0.6 lbs per cubic foot.

This makes open cell spray foam a cost-effective choice for energy efficiency and acoustic performance.

Common Uses

Open cell spray foam insulation works well in structures that are likely to move or settle as time goes on.

Its flexibility allows it to move with the structure, making it a great fit for new construction or post-frame builds.

Here are some of the most common applications and benefits of open cell foam insulation:

  • Great for new homes and structures that may settle or shift over time

  • Helps reduce noise between rooms and floors in both homes and businesses

  • Expands easily to fill gaps and irregular spaces

  • Long-term value—won’t degrade, sag, or lose effectiveness over time

  • Improves energy efficiency by minimizing air leakage

While the upfront cost of open cell spray foam may be slightly higher than traditional insulation, it’s an investment that pays off over time with better performance and durability.

Technician applying closed cell spray foam insulation to a wall frame — AFI Insulation serving Pleasant Hill, IA and surrounding areas

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Real Reviews From Iowa Homeowners Like You

Kevin Steffensmeier

The crew at AFI was outstanding! Work was completed in a professional and timely manner. Highly recommended!

Kevin Steffensmeier , Urbandale, IA
Teri Lutz-Oberender

This company is the best. Our home posed many challenges as it is 148 years old with additions of unknown ages. Mike K. and his team faced each challenge with grace and got the job done to perfection. Even with a 70 lb puppy, Milly bringing him toys all day. I highly recommend them!

Teri Lutz-Oberender , Des Moines, IA
Jeremy Hewitt

The guys did a great job this morning with an extraction! Looking forward to calling them when we need to spray foam!

Jeremy Hewitt , Des Moines, IA
Jim Piper

The crew did a GREAT JOB.

Jim Piper , Iowa
Bruce Sullivan

Mike and his helper did a great job insulating my garage. Very Professional and did a good job cleaning up also. Highly recommend.

Bruce Sullivan , Pleasant Hill, IA
Jenni Gardner

We were very impressed with the professionalism and speed at which we got service from AFI. Darren came out on Wednesday to give us a quote and had Mike and his team out on Friday to put in the insulation. They were courteous and did an excellent job. Would highly recommend.

Jenni Gardner , Iowa
Charlotte Prather

They were very knowledgeable and helpful. Mike, Kane, Dustin and Zac worked together to do a good job. They told me what they were going to do and did it in a timely manner. They cleaned up the area after they were done and didn’t leave a mess. We would recommend AFI to everyone wanting a good job done with there insulating projects. Thank you guys. We now will stay warm this winter.

Charlotte Prather , Monroe, IA
Kane Fairman

I recommend AFI for any insulation needs. Very professional, responsive, knowledgeable and top quality workmanship.

Kane Fairman , Ankeny, IA
Bridget Larson

Great service, excellent work! Duston installed our spray insulation and explained everything, did efficient work and cleaned up the space promptly afterwards! Would def use them again in the future!

Bridget Larson , Iowa City, IA