What Is the Best Type of Insulation for a Pole Barn in Oklahoma?

For an existing metal pole barn in Oklahoma, closed-cell spray foam is usually the best insulation because it bonds to the metal, air seals and stops condensation in one layer. Faced fiberglass blanket is the best budget option when it goes in while the building is being built.

Closed-Cell Spray Foam

Closed-cell foam is sprayed directly onto the underside of the metal roof and walls. At about R-6 to R-7 per inch, 2 inches is roughly R-13. It is rigid, resists moisture, does not sag and leaves nothing loose for mice and birds to nest in. It costs about $1.00 to $2.00 per board foot installed.

Faced Fiberglass Blanket

Metal building blanket is a fiberglass roll with a vinyl or reinforced facing, laid over the purlins and behind the wall panels during construction. Common choices are about R-13 walls and R-19 roof. It costs less, but the facing must be sealed at every seam or condensation forms behind it, and it is hard to add after the panels are on.

Open-Cell Foam, Foam Board and Bubble Wrap

• Open-cell foam: good inside framed walls and ceilings, but not sprayed directly on bare metal because it lets vapor reach the cold steel
• Rigid foam board: works in framed walls, but every seam must be taped and sealed
• Bubble wrap and reflective foil: cheap, but low R-value on its own and easily torn

Matching Insulation to How You Use the Barn

An unheated hay or equipment barn often only needs a 1-inch closed-cell coat on the roof. A heated shop needs walls and roof. A barndominium needs full residential insulation. See pole barn spray foam insulation and fiberglass pole barn insulation.

Pole Barn Insulation Pros Tulsa offers free on-site estimates and written quotes seven days a week, 8am to 7pm. Call (918) 880-2499 or request a free quote online.