Spray foam insulation is a must have at any job site. It’s a versatile product that applies quickly – and premium brands like VersiFoam® deliver long-lasting quality in an easy-to-use kit.
To help you determine how to best incorporate spray foam insulation kits into your next commercial project, we’ll walk you through the basics: what it is, how to use it, and why VersiFoam® is the leading spray foam source.
What Is Spray Foam Insulation, and Which System Should I Use?
Spray foam insulation is composed of a liquid plastic polymer that is typically applied using a spray gun. Once applied, it expands and sets, creating a layer of insulation with a foam-like consistency. There are a few different ways to classify the varieties of spray foam.
Open Cell vs. Closed Cell
There are two kinds of spray foam when it comes to cell structure: open cell and closed cell. Closed cell foam is thick and dense due to its completely closed cell structure. This closed cell structure also gives it a higher thermal resistance than open cell. Closed cell foam is also great for damp or humid environments due to its high vapor resistance.
Open cell foam is more porous and flexible due to its open cell structure. Because it is more permeable, open cell foam acts as an air filter, which is ideal for limiting airborne pollutants and allergens. Open cell is also used in environments where moisture is not an issue, like attics or in areas where space is not a concern and you can apply multiple coats to provide a thicker barrier. It’s also frequently used for sound dampening.
Slow Rise vs. Fast Rise
This metric determines the rate that a given spray foam expands. Slow rise is better suited to fill in spaces where the foam needs to flow to distant areas before it solidifies. Fast rise foam is better suited for larger and open areas – you’ll see it most commonly in new construction.
R-value
As you start exploring different spray foam formulas, you’ll run into a few important numbers. The first is the R-value. This measures the thermal resistance of a layer of insulation (the “R” stands for “resistance”). The higher the R-value, the better the insulation functions at preventing the flow of heat.
VersiFoam® offers a range of thermal resistant foams; our high density closed-cell foam has the highest R-value at 7.7, followed by slow rise at 6.7 and closed cell at 6.4.
PCF
Another key number to look for is the PCF (pounds per cubic foot). This number measures density. The higher the PCF, the denser and more resistant the foam. Foams with a high density are used in areas that need the most thermal and moisture resistance, like roofs, buildings made of metal, and anywhere else this foam’s high structural strength would be a benefit.
The PCF of VersiFoam® closed cell and slow rise foams is 1.75 – the sweet spot for most commercial projects, and our high density formula packs an extra punch at 2.8.
How To Apply Spray Foam Insulation
Before you get started on your spray foam insulation project, it’s important to know the step-by-step process for proper application and safety.
- Gear up: Wear a protective layer of clothing, gloves, and goggles to protect your clothes, skin, and eyes.
- Get covered: You’ll want to protect your space as well. Cover the floor and surfaces around the targeted area with drop cloths or something similar. Cover electrical outlets with tape.
- Clean up: Spray foam adheres best to a clean surface. Make sure to remove any dust or dirt before spraying. If this requires cleaning with a lot of water or liquids, let it dry down.
- Test: Start by spraying a small test area on something disposable like cardboard to see how the foam sprays, expands, and sets.
- Apply: spray a layer about ½” thick around the perimeter. After that dries, fill in the rest with a smooth, even layer of foam. Wait for that to expand and settle before applying any additional layers.
- Trim: cut off any foam that has expanded beyond your newly insulated area.
We also recommend reading the safety sheet in full prior to beginning your project. Check out the safety sheet for VersiFoam® closed cell kits to see an example.
VersiFoam® Is the Source for Premium, All-in-One Spray Foam Kits
VersiFoam® has been innovating the spray foam insulation industry for over 40 years – ever since the introduction of our patented U-Control spray gun that allows you to regulate the quantity of foam being dispensed at a rate so controlled, you can write your name with it. We offer a wide range of all-in-one spray foam kits that deliver professional results in an easy-to-use package.
Learn more about our spray foam systems and find a VersiFoam® dealer near you to place your order today.
