SPRAY POLYURETHANE FOAM (SPF) is an insulation and sealant like no other. It can form a continuous air barrier on walls, roofs, around corners, and on many surfaces in and around a home or building. It is created at the jobsite by mixing two liquids that react very quickly, expanding on contact to create rigid foam. It not only insulates, but seals gaps, and some foams can form a barrier against moisture and vapor.
By creating a tight barrier around a building, SPF helps prevent hot and cold air, moisture and vapor from infiltrating a building’s comfortable interior environment. SPF insulation is known to resist heat transfer extremely well, and it offers a highly effective solution in reducing unwanted air infiltration through cracks, seams and joints.
Learn more about spray foam and about polyurethanes.
Combustibility
Like many materials found in a home or building, spray foam can ignite and burn if exposed to a sufficient heat source. Foam insulation should be considered combustible and handled accordingly.
The Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) offers guidance to contractors and builders handing spray foam:
Building Codes and Regulations
Spray foam is regulated through the model building codes and state and local governments. Model and local building codes are used throughout the United States to help make buildings safer for families and occupants by regulating design, construction practices, construction material quality, including fire performance, location, occupancy, and maintenance of buildings and structures. Building codes are updated and changed on a regular basis. Technical data sheets for spray foam products often indicate fire resistance ratings and compliance with stringent flammability code requirements.