Polyurethane foam has been used to insulate buildings for over 50 years. Today, it is often used to insulate large areas like foundation walls, but it can also be used on a smaller scale, e.g. to insulate the perimeters of doors and windows.
In this article, find out about the advantages of polyurethane foam that have made it one of the most popular insulation solutions for construction contractors.
Polyurethane foam has a high R-value
If you’re familiar with building insulation, you’ve probably heard of R-value. R-value is a unit of measurement that refers to the ability of a given type of insulation to prevent heat transfer. The calculation is based on the thickness and thermal conductivity of the material in question. The higher the R-value is, the better the insulation will perform.
Polyurethane foam insulation is known to have a higher R-value than most other types of insulation. For example, Adfoam pro 1875 (a type of insulating foam designed specifically for doors and windows) has an R-value of R5 per square inch, while mineral wool insulation is usually between 3.5 and 4.
Polyurethane foam acts as a barrier to air and moisture
Applying polyurethane foam makes building envelopes much more airtight and waterproof, because it provides seamless insulation.
Since polyurethane foam doesn’t leave any gaps between the insulation and the substrate, it can also act as an air and vapour barrier and replace house wrap when used as exterior insulation.
Using foam insulation can result in significant cost savings—heating and air conditioning the building will require less energy, and you won’t need to install house wrap between your drywall and exterior walls.
Polyurethane foam insulation is moisture- and mould-resistant
Once cured, polyurethane foam becomes an inert plastic. It doesn’t absorb water or moisture or promote mould and mildew development like some types of insulation material.
On the contrary, as mentioned above, it will protect the other building materials from mould, mildew and water damage by creating a 100% waterproof barrier. You can even use it to fix damp walls.
Foam insulation has good dimensional stability
Many insulation materials, such as mineral wool and cellulose, tend to sag or settle over time. This phenomenon can cause thermal bridges in areas where there is no longer enough insulation. The building then becomes more susceptible to heat loss.
Polyurethane foam insulation is known for its excellent dimensional stability. Once cured, its volume will not increase or decrease no matter what conditions it is exposed to.
Polyurethane foam is easy to use
Another advantage polyurethane foam has over other types of insulation products is how easy it is to apply.
It adheres easily to most materials (concrete, wood, metals, etc.) used for building interiors and exteriors and can mould itself perfectly to fit irregular gaps and shapes.
Using a foam gun to apply this type of insulation means that the procedure is very precise, can fill the smallest gaps and prevents messes.
The Adfast Adfoam line: polyurethane foam for all your construction needs
Don’t forget to consider the advantages of polyurethane foam when choosing insulation material for your next construction project.
If you’re looking for the best insulating foam cans for a project, note that Adfast offers a range of polyurethane foam that can be used for insulation, plumbing, and a variety of other applications.
Contact us for more information about polyurethane foam or our other products. Our experts will be happy to help you determine which one best suits your needs.
