Special equipment required for a spray foam installation

Two things come to mind in a discussion about spray foam insulation: a successful installation and a professional installation. Both of these are critical in the world of spray foam, mainly because the product and the application require training, skill and proficiency. In addition, for the spray foam product to perform to its maximum potential, the installation has to be right. Why use the best product on the market and not install at the highest possible standard? Why not do it right the first time?

For every professional, doing it right is about installing the product according to the manufacturer’s specifications; abiding by all building codes and local bi-laws; and preparing the job-site appropriately. A professional approach also includes safety precautions for occupants or residents, and personal protection for the installation team. There’s no other way to approach a professional install, and no other way to achieve a successful application. Spray foam is not a project for taking shortcuts.

The PROPORTIONER is essential to any operation – it’s the machine that preps and pressurizes the raw materials and allows for the chemical reaction that creates the foam. This is state-of-the-art equipment that requires highly specialized training.

The SPRAY FOAM GUN is an additional piece of equipment, used to effectively spray the foam into an attic space or wall cavity. From a technical standpoint, the spray gun is actually where the chemicals combine and react with each other.

The raw chemical components are delivered through a SPRAY FOAM FEED SYSTEM, and make their way to the PROPORTIONER. Once again, this is a sophisticated piece of equipment that preps the chemical compounds on their way to the spray gun.

It sounds simple but a reliable POWER SUPPLY is vital to a proper install. Everything that runs on electricity requires a reliable source of power – it ensures consistency of the application, and also prevents potential damage to operating equipment.

A mobile COMPRESSED AIR SUPPLY is a fundamental requirement, as a constant source of airflow and a source of air pressure. Needless to say, the airflow and air pressure specifications must meet the specified needs of the equipment being used.

SAFETY GEAR is an occupational prerequisite. Handling, preparing and spraying foam requires the utmost in personal protection. The whole idea is to prevent direct contact - it means wearing both respiratory protection and personal protective gear.

Work-site safety is probably the most important consideration for every contractor, home builder, and renovator. Safety should be central to every project, during an installation and immediately thereafter. There is no alternative for the professional.

Quite often, clients and customers will explore the option of turning a spray foam install into a DIY (do-it-yourself) project. And while its true that home centers offer various spray foam products, and some associated equipment, its incumbent on the professional to discourage the client from engaging. Spray foam insulation requires highly trained personnel (licensed and certified) – product knowledge and expertise – and installation experience derived from many, many successful applications.