Question 1

What's the difference between Open and Closed Cell Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)?

Accepted Answer

Open cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) weighs between o.4 and 0.6 lbs. Per cubic ft. when fully cured, while closed cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) weighs between 1.5 and 2 lbs. per cubic ft. when fully cured. Open cell spray polyurethane foam has an R value of 5.6 to 8 per inch.

Question 2

How does SPF reduce energy use in building?

Accepted Answer

It provides a continuous air barrier, prevents moisture infiltration and condensation. It also prevents thermal bridging and resists heat movement in all directions. Studies indicate that SPF insulation can reduce heating and cooling costs by as much as 50%.

Question 3

What are the limitations to install SPF?

Accepted Answer

The limitations with regards to installation of our SPF will be the following; ice, frost, surface moisture, dirt and wind conditions. Barriers may be necessary if wind conditions can affect foam quality or create over spray problems.

Question 4

Is SPF suitable for re-roofing?

Accepted Answer

SPF has shown superior performance when applied directly over previous roofing installations and can substantially reduce re roofing costs.

Question 5

Is SPF safe for people?

Accepted Answer

There are two (2) potential hazards that need to be mentioned: fumes and mists from spraying process can be harmful if it is improperly installed or remain exposed. This hazard may be avoided if it is applied by a professional installer, and the applicators should wear protective clothing, and take into account the area to be sprayed has proper ventilation or open space.

Question 6

Is SPF suitable for environment?

Accepted Answer

SPF reduces the emissions of CO2 by reducing the use of fossils for energy because it insulates effectively. It also reduces the amount of roofing materials going to landfills because it resists wind tear offs and can be sprayed directly over existing roof systems.

Question 7

Is SPF code approved?

Accepted Answer

SPF meets building code requirements nationwide for both new construction and improvements to existing structures.

Question 8

Why Spray Foam?

Accepted Answer

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) is the ideal method for insulating commercial and residential buildings. Spray foam stops air and moisture intrusion, cuts energy bills, strengthens the structure, and protects the internal air from mold, airborne pollutants, and allergens, thereby creating healthy buildings.

Question 9

Will SPF insulation lose R-value over time?

Accepted Answer

When first installed, spray polyurethane foam’s R-value is about 8-9 for a one-inch thickness. Over time, the R-value drops to about 6.5 (per inch) and stabilizes at that value. The time it takes to reach an R-value of 6.5 depends on a variety of factors, including total foam thickness. Many industry studies indicate that a one – inch thick sample of foam will stabilized after six (6) months and maintain that approximate R-value for decades.

Question 10

How does SPF reduce energy use in buildings?

Accepted Answer

SPF provides a continuous air barrier. SPF prevents moisture infiltration through air leakage. SPF minimizes dew point problems and condensation. SPF avoids thermal bridging. SPF resists heat movement in all directions. SPF provides reliable performance under varying conditions.

Question 11

How long does it take to install spray polyurethane foam?

Accepted Answer

The process is actual quite fast. A typical 2000 sq. ft. house can be fully insulated with spray polyurethane foam in few days. Large houses or houses with complex design features could take longer.

Question 12

Will spray polyurethane foam deteriorate over time?

Accepted Answer

Not that we’re aware of. A careful look on a 20-year old spray foam projects and no signs of deterioration has been observed. It is expected that the polyurethane foam system will insulate and seal your home for the life of the house.

Question 13

What are the advantages of using Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation?

Accepted Answer

It acts as a seamless insulation making it more efficient than any other material used in the industry. Because SPF is light and versatile and has strong adhesive properties, it easily fills difficult to reach places and adheres to most clean surfaces.

Question 14

How long does a spray polyurethane form roof last?

Accepted Answer

The oldest performing SPF roofs are over 30 years old. It is because the physical properties of the SPF change little with age, how long the SPF roof system lasts depends primarily on the original application and long term maintenance.

Question 15

How do you maintain a SPF roof system?

Accepted Answer

SPF roof systems should be inspected semi-annually and after events that could cause physical damage. Small (less than 3” diameter) dents, cracks, punctures from dropped tools, wind driven debris can be repaired with an elastomeric sealant compatible with the SPF and coating system. More extensive damage can be repaired by reapplying SPF.

Question 16

Where can I use a SPF roofing system?

Accepted Answer

SPF has excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates including BUR, clay and concrete tile, shingles, metal, wood and concrete. Since they add little weight and can be applied in varying thickness to add slope and fill in low areas, SPF roofing systems are often used as recover system over existing roof coverings.

Question 17

Can a homeowner apply spray polyurethane foam?

Accepted Answer

It’s not very practical due to the expense of the equipment involved. Spray foam application requires complex equipment and a skilled installer.

Question 18

Will spray polyurethane foam strengthen my house?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Two pound foams are rigid and structural. Your walls will be more resistant to winds and you’ll notice less creaking and shaking especially when doors are slammed.

Question 19

What smell does spray polyurethane foam product in my home?

Accepted Answer

A slight odor will be present during installation of spray polyurethane foam insulation. This will rapidly dissipate after the spraying operation stops. After that, the installed spray polyurethane foam will be odorless.

Question 20

What are the environmental limitations of installing SPF roofing systems?

Accepted Answer

As with other roofing systems, SPF can be applied in a wide variety of climatic conditions. The SPF and protective coating should not be installed when there is ice, frost, surface moisture or visible dampness present on the surface to be covered. Barriers may be necessary if wind conditions can affect the foam quality or create over-spray problems.

Question 21

How do SPF roof systems compare in cost to other roof systems?

Accepted Answer

SPF roofing systems are cost competitive with other systems. Life Cycle Cost Analysis performed by Michelsen Technologies demonstrated that over a 30 year life span, SPF roof systems cost between 10% and 50% less on average than comparably insulated membrane roof systems. (Averages were based on SPF roof system recoats of every 6, 10 and 15 years.)

Question 22

Why do you need coatings or coverings over SPF?

Accepted Answer

SPF is water resistant without coverings, however, the surface of SPF can deteriorate under the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Typically, elastomeric coatings or aggregate coverings are used to protect the SPF against UV radiation.

Question 23

At what point in the construction of my house should spray polyurethane foam be applied?

Accepted Answer

Normally, spray polyurethane foam is installed at the same point in the construction cycle as other types of insulation. That is, it should be installed after the rough plumbing, electrical wiring, and heating and air conditioning ducts have been installed. If you decide to seal the entire exterior house shell with spray foam, spray foam insulation may need to be applied in some areas before the ductwork is installed.