FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ecofoam Fill ‘Em Up FAQs
Is it necessary to moisten the surface before using foam?
We recommend moistening because the system needs water to cure. If you do not moisten the surface, there is a risk of post-expansion, which means that the foam will harden out in the first few days. After a while the uncured foam will react with moisture and you’ll get post-expansion.
What is the expansion of PU foam?
Is there a negative effect on the foam if the can is not shaken thoroughly prior to use?
Does PU foam provide good adhesion to all building surfaces?
Generally yes. Polyurethane foams have a good adhesion on the most common building materials, such as brick, concrete, plaster, wood, glass, metal, PS, rigid PVC and PU.
What is the ideal storage temperature?
The ideal storage temperature for most general type of sealants, adhesives and Polyurethane foam is 5°C to 25°C.
What application does Ecofoam Canister Polyurethane foam can used for?
Is Polyurethane foam UV resistant?
All Polyurethane foams are not UV resistant. Normally Polyurethane foam is covered, if not, it is necessary to protect the foam (e.g. by painting). If Polyurethane foam is in contact with UV-rays for a longer period, the foam’s color will turn from yellow to brown. Later on the foam will get even brittle.
What are the health and safety recommendations for using foam?
Is there any way to accelerate the curing process?
Yes, wetting; ideally from a spray gun. This will help speed up the hardening process.
How can foam spots be removed?
Fresh foam can be removed with PU cleaner. Cured foam can only be removed mechanically (using blade) or by using special hard foam cleaner.
How long does it take to install spray polyurethane foam?
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.
Is it ok to leave half-empty canisters attached to applicator guns?
Yes, in fact we recommend leaving a partially-full container attached to the gun. To store the gun and canister safely, the security screw should be tightened to secure the trigger.
Ecofoam SPF Insulation FAQs
What's the difference between Open and Closed Cell Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF)?
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.
How does SPF reduce energy use in building?
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%.
What are the limitations to install SPF?
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.
Is SPF suitable for re-roofing?
SPF has shown superior performance when applied directly over previous roofing installations and can substantially reduce re roofing costs.
Is SPF safe for people?
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.
Is SPF suitable for environment?
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.
Is SPF code approved?
SPF meets building code requirements nationwide for both new construction and improvements to existing structures.
Why Spray Foam?
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.
Will SPF insulation lose R-value over time?
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.
How does SPF reduce energy use in buildings?
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.
How long does it take to install spray polyurethane foam?
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.
Will spray polyurethane foam deteriorate over time?
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.
What are the advantages of using Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation?
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.
How long does a spray polyurethane form roof last?
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.
How do you maintain a SPF roof system?
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.
Where can I use a SPF roofing system?
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.
Can a homeowner apply spray polyurethane foam?
It’s not very practical due to the expense of the equipment involved. Spray foam application requires complex equipment and a skilled installer.
Will spray polyurethane foam strengthen my house?
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.
What smell does spray polyurethane foam product in my home?
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.
What are the environmental limitations of installing SPF roofing systems?
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.
How do SPF roof systems compare in cost to other roof systems?
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.)
Why do you need coatings or coverings over SPF?
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.
At what point in the construction of my house should spray polyurethane foam be applied?
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.
Want to know more about our products and services? Contact us anytime for any inquiries or request for a quote for your project.
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