Cannot address the foam. If you want the best thermostat, I would look at:

www.spyderrobotics.com or www.vivariumelectronics.com.

The HerpStat and the VE Series thermostats are the BEST in the business and come down to aesthetics on which is better (from what I gather). I just bought a Herpstat 1 for my rack and couldn't be happier.

Spyder Robotics is also having a 10% off sale now.

Best,

Paul