Types of Closed Cell Foams

Written by the Foam Factory

One of the choices that you’ll need to make when selecting replacement foam for your marine foam cushions is between open cell and closed cell foam materials. The choice that you make will largely depend on how the foam will be used. Here’s a look at some of the advantages of both types of foams in marine settings:

Open Cell Foam

Open cell foam is constructed with large “pores” within the material. This allows the foam to breathe and let both air and water flow through the foam. By doing this, the foam will dry much quicker than closed cell foam, even if it has been thoroughly soaked. Dryfast foam is one example of open cell foam that is designed to dry quickly, which is why it is often used for outdoor seat cushions on boats.

Dry fast foam is made with an antimicrobial formula that is designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria, mold and other microorganisms that can damage your foam or create unsafe conditions.

Closed Cell Foam

Unlike open cell foam, closed cell foam does not have pores. This means that instead of letting water pass through the foam, it keeps it out. The solid foam means that the foam is dense, stiff and resilient. It also means that the foam has a high level of buoyancy, which is why it is often used in life jackets, floating cockpit cushions and other floatation devices. It can be used in conjunction with dryfast foam if you are looking to provide a foam that drains well and has floatation capabilities.

The Foam Factory offers the highest quality replacement foam products at affordable prices. Check out their website at TheFoamFactory.com to see their full range of indoor and outdoor replacement foam.