Tuesday, September 26, 2023

Exploring the Versatility and Efficiency of Spray Foam Insulation Equipment

No comments : By Bedliner Review at September 26, 2023

Spray foam insulation has quickly become a popular choice for homeowners and contractors alike due to its exceptional insulating properties and energy-saving benefits. This revolutionary insulation method requires specialized equipment to properly apply the foam and achieve desired results. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the world of spray foam insulation equipment, discussing its types, functionalities, and benefits. Whether you are a homeowner considering a DIY insulation project or a professional interested in expanding your business, understanding the various options available in spray foam insulation equipment is crucial.

1. The Basics of Spray Foam Insulation
Before delving into the details of spray foam insulation equipment, it is essential to understand the basics of spray foam insulation itself. Spray foam insulation is a two-component system that consists of an A-side, which is composed of isocyanate, and a B-side, which contains a polyol blend. When combined, these components create a chemical reaction that results in the expansion and hardening of the foam. This expansion allows the foam to fill gaps, cracks, and voids, creating a seamless, airtight insulation barrier.

2. Types of Spray Foam Insulation Equipment
a) Low-pressure spray foam kits: These kits are designed for smaller projects and are suitable for DIY enthusiasts or individuals looking to insulate specific areas of their homes. Low-pressure kits typically include small, disposable tanks of A and B components. They are relatively easy to use, requiring minimal setup and cleanup.

b) High-pressure spray foam equipment: This type of equipment is designed for larger projects, such as commercial buildings or extensive residential insulation. High-pressure spray foam equipment consists of separate tanks for A and B components, connected to a high-pressure proportioning system. This system ensures accurate mixing of the two components and the precise application of the foam.

c) Mobile spray foam rigs: Mobile spray foam rigs are the most advanced and versatile option for professionals in the insulation industry. These rigs are equipped with a high-pressure proportioning system, air compressors, generators, and heated hoses. Mobile spray foam rigs offer greater productivity, as they can be transported to job sites and are capable of handling large-scale projects efficiently.

3. Functionalities and Features of Spray Foam Insulation Equipment (200 words):
Spray foam insulation equipment comes with various functionalities and features that enhance its efficiency and ease of use. Some of the common features include:

a) Proportioning systems: Spray foam equipment is equipped with proportioning systems that ensure accurate mixing of the A and B components. This precise mixing is crucial for achieving the desired foam consistency and quality.

b) Heating capabilities: Spray foam insulation requires heating the A and B components to optimize their chemical reaction and ensure proper foam expansion. Spray foam equipment is equipped with heating systems that maintain the desired temperature throughout the application process.

c) Hoses and spray guns: These components are used to deliver the mixed foam to the desired area. They are designed to handle the high pressure and viscosity of the foam and provide control over the application process.

4. Benefits of Using Spray Foam Insulation Equipment
Spray foam insulation equipment offers numerous benefits for both homeowners and professionals in the insulation industry:

a) Energy efficiency: Spray foam insulation provides superior thermal insulation, reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Properly installed spray foam insulation can significantly contribute to a more energy-efficient home or building.

b) Moisture and air infiltration control: The seamless application of spray foam insulation creates an airtight barrier, preventing moisture and air infiltration. This helps to minimize the risk of condensation, mold growth, and drafts, improving indoor air quality and reducing potential damage to the structure.

c) Versatility and adaptability: Spray foam insulation can be applied to various surfaces, including walls, roofs, and foundations. Spray foam equipment allows for precise control over the thickness and coverage of the insulation, ensuring optimal performance in any application.

Conclusion
Spray foam insulation equipment plays a vital role in achieving effective insulation and energy efficiency. Whether you are a homeowner looking to improve your living space or a professional seeking to provide high-quality insulation services, understanding the different types of spray foam insulation equipment and their functionalities is crucial. By utilizing the right equipment, you can ensure the proper application of spray foam insulation, resulting in long-lasting benefits, such as energy savings, improved indoor comfort, and moisture control.

Friday, July 14, 2023

What is R-Value Of Spray Foam Insulation?

No comments : By Bedliner Review at July 14, 2023

Spray foam insulation has become a popular choice for homeowners and businesses looking to improve their energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. One of the key factors that make spray foam insulation so effective is its high R-value.

R-value is a measure of thermal resistance, indicating how well an insulation material prevents the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation is at keeping heat in during the winter and out during the summer. Spray foam insulation boasts an impressive R-value, making it an excellent choice for those seeking optimal thermal performance.

The

R-value of spray foam insulation can vary depending on the type of spray foam used and the thickness of the insulation applied. There are two main types of spray foam insulation: open-cell and closed-cell.

Open-cell spray foam insulation typically has an R-value of around 3.5 to 4 per inch. This means that a 2-inch layer of open-cell spray foam insulation will have an R-value of approximately 7 to 8. While open-cell spray foam has a slightly lower R-value compared to closed-cell, it still provides excellent insulation properties and can significantly improve the energy efficiency of a building.

Closed-cell spray foam insulation, on the other hand, offers an even higher R-value. It generally has an R-value of around 6 to 7 per inch, meaning that a 2-inch layer of closed-cell spray foam insulation will have an R-value of approximately 12 to 14. This higher R-value makes closed-cell spray foam insulation one of the most effective insulation materials available.

In addition to its high R-value, spray foam insulation also provides other benefits. One of the key advantages is its ability to create an airtight seal when applied, preventing air leakage and minimizing drafts. This not only improves energy efficiency but also enhances indoor comfort by reducing temperature fluctuations.

Another benefit of spray foam insulation is its ability to fill gaps and crevices, creating a seamless barrier against moisture infiltration. This can help prevent the growth of mold and mildew, which can be a significant concern in areas with high humidity levels.

Furthermore, spray foam insulation offers excellent soundproofing qualities. Its dense structure and ability to absorb sound make it an effective solution for reducing noise transmission, creating a quieter and more peaceful indoor environment.

When considering spray foam insulation for your home or business, it's important to consult with a professional insulation contractor to determine the right type and thickness of spray foam for your specific needs. They can assess factors such as climate, building design, and budget to ensure you achieve the maximum benefits of the insulation.

In conclusion, the high R-value of spray foam insulation makes it an excellent choice for improved energy efficiency and reduced heating and cooling costs. Whether you opt for open-cell or closed-cell spray foam, both types provide exceptional insulation properties that can significantly enhance the comfort and energy performance of your building. So, if you're looking for a reliable and effective insulation solution, consider spray foam insulation with its impressive R-value.

Tuesday, July 13, 2021

5 Reasons Spray Foam Is The Right Insulation Choice

No comments : By Bedliner Review at July 13, 2021

It doesn't matter if you're renovating or buying a house new, the insulation you choose matters more than you realize. ArmorFoam spray foam creates a sustainable home, reduces energy consumption, and provides healthier living conditions.

#1. Air-barrier and insulation in one

ArmorFoam spray-applied foam that can be used to insulate your home and create an air seal. Spray foam is a two-component liquid that expands to 120 times its sickness. It sets and cures in 60 seconds and, unlike fiberglass insulation, is completely safe to be touched.

#2. Improved indoor air quality means a healthier home

Spray foam expands to create an air barrier that seals every inch in your home. This prevents air leakage and eliminates the possibility of mold growth. It also reduces dust, pollen and allergens.

#3 Reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling

Quik-Shield spray foam insulation creates an air barrier that is very energy efficient. It can help you save a lot on heating and cooling costs.

#4 Reduces noise and improves sound control

ArmorFoam open-cell spray foam is also designed to absorb sound. This allows you to control the sound level in every room of your home.

#5 Increased Structural Strength

Your home will be protected against storm damage and uplift if you live in an area that is subject to extreme weather events. Closed-cell spray foam, which is Fema 4 flood-resistant insulation, adds up to three times structural racking strength to your home.

ArmorThane's ArmorFoam spray foam provides lasting value for years, whether you are concerned about your family's comfort and health, the environment or energy efficiency.

Thursday, March 18, 2021

Advantages and disadvantages of spray polyurethane foam

No comments : By Bedliner Review at March 18, 2021

Spray-Foam Insulation
Discover the advantages and disadvantages of spray polyurethane foam-- a high-performance material discovered in the walls and roofing systems of many of today's energy-efficient homes.

Spray-polyurethane-foam insulation is more pricey than other kinds of insulation-- fiberglass batts or blown cellulose, for example-- and it calls for professional setup. So, why do some contractors and house owners swear by it? In a word, performance.

Spray polyurethane foam can be found in 2 variations: open-cell and closed-cell. Both types fill cracks and crevices in walls and ceilings much more successfully than batt insulation, quickly flowing around pipes and wires to produce a reliable air barrier as it cures.

Spray foam is made at the job website from 2 chemicals, the "A" and "B" sides. The two mix at the nozzle of the spray gun, foaming as the elements are united. Installers wear protective clothing and a respirator as they work with it.

Open-cell foam is vapor permeable
Open-cell foam is the lighter and more economical of the two. With an R-value of in between R-3.5 and R-3.6 per in., open-cell foam weighs about 1/2 pound. per cubic ft. Although costs vary, intend on $1 to $1.20 per sq. ft. when filling a 2 × 4 stud cavity.

Installers normally over-fill a stud or rafter bay with the foam and trim back the excess once the foam has treated. This leaves the cavity completely filled.

Open-cell foam makes a good air barrier, but it's vapor permeable. That means water vapor can move through the foam even when the bulk motion of air is obstructed. This ends up being an essential factor to consider when the foam is sprayed in between rafters on the underside of the roofing sheathing to develop a conditioned attic in a cold climate. In the winter season, moisture in the attic air can make its method through the foam and gather on the back side of the sheathing-- a possible mold and decay problem.

In this case, a separate vapor retarder or vapor-retarding paint must be installed over the foam.

Closed-cell foam is a vapor barrier
Closed-cell foam has a much higher R-value than open-cell foam-- about R-6.5 per inch-- and it's a vapor barrier in addition to an air barrier. (One maker, Demilec, states its Heatlok High Lift spray foam has an even higher R-value-- R-7.5 per in.) Closed-cell foam is much denser, about 2 lb. per cu. ft., and it's untouched by water. It forms a tough, dense insulating layer and enhances wall and ceiling cavities structurally.

Closed-cell foam also is significantly more expensive than open-cell foam, costing between $1.75 to $3 per sq. ft. in a 2 × 4 cavity. That's money well spent in some applications. In a wall or roofing where there's limited space for insulation, for example, closed-cell foam uses outstanding thermal performance in a thinner layer than a lot of other kinds of insulation.

Cured closed-cell foam is much more difficult to cut than open-cell foam, so installers do not overfill stud and rafter bays. It's way too much work cutting it back after the foam has cured.

Installers likewise have to be careful not to spray too much foam in a single pass, or "lift." The reason is that the foam develops heat as it cures-- an exothermic reaction. If the foam is too thick, it can catch on fire. Although this is unusual, it has actually happened, and improperly used foam has been blamed for several house fires.

Ensure you know what you're getting
With its really high R-values, closed-cell foam would appear to be a perfect insulation for exterior walls. Simply think: In theory, filling a 2 × 6 stud cavity yields an R-value of 37.75, practically double what a standard-density fiberglass batt would provide.

However, as Green Building Advisor editor Martin Holladay describes in this article, the truth is various. First, the installer will probably not bring the foam all the way out to the edge of the stud. He's more most likely to leave a 1/2-in. buffer so he will not need to cut anything back later. Now the insulation layer is 5 in., not 5-1/2 in.

Then there is the "framing element"-- that part of the wall that isn't insulation: studs, headers, and top and bottom plates. When the R-value of wood (about R-1.2 per in.) is figured into the formula, the whole-wall R-value is more like R-15.4. That's only R-1.9 more than you 'd get with open-cell foam, however at a much higher expense.

Environmental factors to consider
Regardless of some undeniable performance advantages, some home builders and designers will not use spray foam. Supporters of foam-free construction don't like the petrochemical origins of spray foam, or the possibility, nevertheless remote, that incorrectly blended foam will develop a chemical risk or lingering smells in the house.

In the case of closed-cell foam, there is the matter of the blowing agent—the chemical additive that gives foam its froth and its high R-value. Open-cell foam utilizes water or carbon dioxide as the blowing agent, but the industry-standard blowing agent for closed-cell foam has actually been a hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) with a worldwide warming capacity (GWP) some 1300 times higher than CO2.

With the dangers of global warming and climate change becoming better understood, this alone is enough to make some designers run the other method. However, a next-generation blowing agent, Solstice, developed by Honeywell, is a chemical, a hydrofluoroolefin. It has a GWP of 1 or less, making spray-foam solutions that use it no more hazardous in that respect than open-cell foam.

The spray-foam market is slowly switching over to this more recent blowing agent, and the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance anticipates the transition to be complete at some point in the next year or more.

Wednesday, March 3, 2021

Preventing Spray Foam Insulation Fails

No comments : By Bedliner Review at March 03, 2021

Spray foam insulation is terrific for the building envelope. Spray foam insulation is a great product. Residences insulated with it can be a few of the most efficient and comfortable homes developed. I've been in lots of these homes and can inform you that when spray foam is set up appropriately, they surpass 99% of fiberglass batt-insulated, stick-built houses. I can likewise tell you that 73% of all stats are made up on the spot, so please do not ask for paperwork of that figure.

Spray foam insulation is a terrific product. Homes insulated with it can be some of the most effective and comfortable houses developed. I've remained in lots of these houses and can inform you that when spray foam is set up properly, they outshine 99% of fiberglass batt-insulated, stick-built homes. (I can likewise tell you that 73% of all statistics are made up on the spot, so please do not request for documents of that statistic.

Spray foam is available in two tastes, open cell and closed cell, and offers both parts of the building envelope-- the insulation and the air barrier. The structured envelope needs to entirely surround the conditioned space, and the insulation needs to be in contact with the air barrier. Since spray foam is both insulation and air barrier, proper positioning of insulation and air barrier is guaranteed.

What's not ensured, nevertheless, is that all spray foam homes will be efficient and comfy. I've seen a number of homes with issues even though they're insulated with spray foam. In order of occurrence, here are the potential fails I've seen, with explanations following the list:

Spray foam isn't thick enough.
Spray foam installers missed out on some of the air leakage websites.
Spray foam installers didn't understand the structure envelope and sprayed either too little or excessive.
Spray foam agreements and pulls away from framing.
Spray foam isn't thick enough.
This is more typical with closed-cell foam, but it happens with open-cell foam, too. Since closed-cell foam has a higher R-value per inch, installers generally spray 2 ″ in walls and 3 ″ in rooflines to satisfy the energy code requirements of R-13 and R-19, respectively. (I'm not going to dive into the energy code here, however, these numbers apply to lots of climate zones, the latter being enabled under the UA tradeoffs rule. See the Energy Nerd's blog on this topic if you want to argue.).

Open-cell foam generally fills the framing cavity completely, so it's easy to tell if the installer has actually sprayed enough. Closed-cell foam doesn't fill the cavity, so you've got to spot check in a bunch of locations to make certain you do not get shorted.

The video below is from a house near Charleston, South Carolina that I checked out just recently, and you'll see that the house owner in this case didn't get his cash's worth. I understood immediately when I strolled into the attic that something was wrong due to the fact that it was hot up there. In a properly insulated spray foam attic, the temperature level will not be much higher than your house temperature level.

The issue was that the installer was doing his first spray foam job ever, and the density of the insulation differed from absolutely no (noticeable roof deck) to about 9 ″. Unfortunately, excellent average density doesn't cut it. The coverage requires to be uniform since a lot of heat will go through the under-insulated locations. (See my short article on flat or bumpy insulation efficiency.).

Spray foam installers missed out on a few of the air leak sites.
Once I got a call to take a look at a 10,000 square foot home that had spray foam throughout, however, the owners had a serious issue in their first summer in the house. When I got here, they took me to the master suite, where two towels were on the floor-- to capture the rain falling off of the supply signs up in the ceiling!

The issue was that the installers missed out on some locations at the soffit in the attic above the master bedroom, and spaces around the tray ceiling allowed the humid air into the room, where it naturally discovered the cold surface to condense on.

As this example illustrates, it's crucial to seal the envelope totally. One of spray foam's most significant selling points is its air-sealing capability, but it can't seal locations where it's not sprayed. Among the good things about using spray foam in brand-new building and construction is that you can do a Blower Door test prior to the drywall goes in. Even much better, you can check for leakages with a fog maker.

Spray foam installers didn't understand the structure envelope and sprayed either too little or excessive.
In intricate houses, seeing precisely where the building envelope is can be an obstacle. If the installer misses locations, it may or may not be an air leakage, but it will absolutely be a thermal bypass because of the lack of insulation. Every part of the building envelope must be insulated, or the home will have excess heat loss/gain.

Another issue I've seen is that the installer sprays additional foam due to the fact that they haven't determined the place of the structure envelope, the border between conditioned and unconditioned area. In the photo listed below, that wall with foam all over it has conditioned space on both sides. The homeowner paid additional and got nothing for it.

Spray foam is squandered on partition walls.
Spray foam contracts and pulls away from framing.
I've seen this just as soon as, and it was with closed-cell foam, however, I've heard of it occurring with open-cell foam, too. I do not know the information, but I've heard it could arise from a bad batch of chemicals, incorrect mixing, or too expensive a temperature. Whatever the cause, it's not a good idea. The picture listed below demonstrates how the spray foam pulled away from the studs. A little bit of uninsulated area like that adds up to a great deal of heat loss/gain when the whole house has that problem, as it did here.

Conclusion.
Do not presume that just because a house is insulated with spray foam that it's immediately a winner. Every item has its risks, and spray foam is no exception. The bright side, though, is that spray foam's problems are normally less regular and easier to conquer with correct preparation and follow-through.

Friday, February 19, 2021

Could Monolithic Dome Structures Be The Next Big Thing?

No comments : By Bedliner Review at February 19, 2021

Monolithic dome structures are not new; however, the innovation for producing them has actually enhanced drastically. Monolithic dome structures have acquired in popularity around the world-- and for good reason. Dome structures offer options to a few of the world's most pressing problems, such as cost effective housing and structures that can be constructed rapidly. They are environmentally friendly and have a high insulation value that manages substantial energy cost savings. There are so many advantages to monolithic dome structures, such as strength, resilience, energy-efficient, cost-efficient, low-maintenance, and wind, water and fire-resistant.

South Industries, found in Menan, Idaho, has actually constructed monolithic dome structures throughout the U.S., Canada, China, Indonesia and Africa. Their gifted group of professionals incorporates complementary disciplines in engineering and building and construction. They can build tasks so rapidly that it makes their fine-tuned workmanship look deceptively simple. However, don't be tricked. It takes a highly experienced group to achieve this accomplishment on time-- every time. Shown below are images of a few more of South Industries' tasks.

Monolithic dome structures have actually been utilized for school additions, churches, convention centers, sports centers, workplaces, temporary and permanent military real estate and tactical operations centers, bulk storage facilities and a lot more. This building construction innovation is removing all over the world. Dome structures can be constructed much faster than conventional building techniques while providing exceptional insulation. The shape of a monolithic dome structure has a very little surface area to volume ratio for heat transfer. As soon as spray foam is applied to the interior of the structure, heat is greatly conserved. This equates into significant money and energy saving-- exactly what our planet needs now more than ever before in human history.

Monolithic Dome Structures Can Withstand Natural Disasters

Dome houses and structures can stand up to hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires and even bomb blasts. Domed roofs and structures are more aerodynamic than square or cubed structures allowing the wind streams over and around them. During typhoons, Dennis, Ivan and Katrina, dome structures were left undamaged amidst the carnage. This is because of the structures' semi-circular shape and concrete reinforcement. According to FEMA, monolithic dome structures are, "... as near outright protection from F-5 tornadoes and classification 5 hurricanes".

Monolithic Dome Construction Process

Monolithic dome building and construction has actually come a long way throughout the years. Present building and construction techniques were developed by bros David, Barry and Randy South. Monolithic dome construction requires a specialized team of workers. The following is a streamlined summary of the building procedure.

The structure is constructed, in a circular shape, with enhanced concrete.
A structural steel ring beam is installed and later moved into the location.
A material or air-form is connected to the foundation and inflated.
Polyurethane foam is sprayed on the interior.
An assistance frame of rebar is constructed inside.
The concrete is made sterile over the rebar frame.

Monolithic dome structures are the ideal solution for residential, industrial, and industrial usages. They can even be set up under extremely cold conditions. Entire dome communities could be the wave of the future. After all, it's tough to argue the benefits dome structures provide to fix myriad world issues.

To learn more about Spray Foam Insulation, visit their site at ArmorThane.com

Friday, August 31, 2018

Polyurethane Foam Systems

64 comments : By Bedliner Review at August 31, 2018

NCFI’s TerraThane Geotechnical Polyurethane Foam Systems

What is it?

TerraThane is the brand name for a series of polyurethane foam systems formulated for residential and commercial geotechnical uses. TerraThane is an innovative leader in concrete lifting and leveling, foundation repair, infrastructure remediation, erosion control, pipeline trench breaker, or mine reclamation.

Why is it unique?

EASY TO APPLY

Since our foams cure in minutes—most solutions exhibit 90% of full compression strength after 15 minutes—large surface areas can be lifted and reopened during application. This allows for swift construction and minimal waste.

Lower overhead costs

The ease of application contributes to less time working, as does the fact that many of our geotechnical foam solutions can be applied by a two-man crew. These factors all translate to fewer paid man-hours, and lower overall job costs.

Scorch-free processing

Our geotechnical foam solutions are designed to be built up in great lift thickness without scorching or foam splitting. During application, our systems have low exo-therm heat transfer, which eliminates additional spray passes and ensures quick construction.

Moisture tolerant and resistant

Though our solutions are injected into wet areas, they will maintain their physical characteristics during reaction and expansion. Plus, the high-density, closed-cell nature of geotechnical foam makes them resistant to water penetration

Exceptional inter-layer adhesion

Due to high structural compressive strength providing strong inter-layer adhesion, our solutions ensure a strong monolithic barrier, one that outperforms sand bags. NCFI’s geotechnical foam systems don’t shift and settle afterwards, which means long-term erosion issues are reduced.

Completely conformable

During the injection process, geotechnical foam will flow freely into cracks and voids, ultimately expanding to its final in-place density—which is normally greater than its free-rise density. Free-rise density is determined without any loads or restrictions placed on the geotechnical foam.

Legendary NCFI support

As the American pioneer of polyurethane foam we’ve developed some of the most used and appreciated foam solutions for industrial, commercial, and geotechnical applications. As industry experts, we offer full field service and support for equipment, application and equipment training, and replacement parts.

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