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Category: FAQs

Published: 09 December 2011

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What is Spray Foam?

Spray Foam (or Polyurethane Foam Insulation) is a 2 part liquid system consisting of an isocyanate and a resin mixture. These chemicals are pumped through a specialized heating and pressurizing unit. The fluids are kept separate until just before leaving the gun, then mixed at a specific temperature and pressure. There are two types of spray foam based on the cell structure of the foam. One is a closed cell and the other is an open cell.

What does R-value mean?

R-value measures the thermal resistance of a material. The larger the number, the longer it takes for temperature to go through it (R20 is twice as good as R10).

Is there harmful off gassing in your spray foam?

There are no detectable VOC’s (Volatile Organic Compounds). No CFC’s (Chloro Fluoro Carbons) or HCFC’s (Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbons). in any of our foam products.
The two chemicals, when mixed at a high temperature, do atomize-which does off-gas and requires venting. As soon as those off-gasses leave the room, the foam is completely safe. This can take between 1-24 hours depending on the project. During our on site visit we will go over our safety policy and procedures with you and determine how your project can be done as safely as possible.

Will it stop rodents and insects for coming into my place?

Insects and rodents do not like our foam and we have found it to be a great barrier for stopping them from entering. Spray foam insulation stops the warm air from coming out (which rodents feel and like to move towards in seeking new shelters) as well as the attractive smell of food. We have sprayed the bottom of RV units and houses with rodent problems and achieved great results.

Where can spray foam insulation be used?

In a word, everywhere! The different types of foam (1/2lb and 2lb) have different characteristics and on your site visit we will help determine the best product for your project. We can spray anything from house walls to bonus room floors, complete shops to the back of your cube van. We have sprayed tanks, underground waterlines and the belly of hot tubs. Pretty much anything can benefit from spray foam.

Can I spray the concrete walls in my basement?

Yes you can. We also recommend that before you back fill, in new home construction, to spray the outside of your concrete. Concrete holds a temperature- when it gets cold, it stays cold for a long time. If you can stop that cold from getting in your house it will stay more comfortable, which in turn saves you money on heating costs. If it is too late for the outside spraying, inside will work as well. We have many testimonials of sprayed basements in Western Manitoba where the client has an immediate change in the comfort of their homes and a reduction in heating bills.

At what stage is spray foam insulation installed?

In a typical residential new construction we would come in after all HVAC, Plumbing and Gas, and Electrical inspections have passed. Each job is treated on an individual basis with Westman Spray Foam, and an on site visit is often required.

Can I rent equipment and do it myself?

No, it takes a full rig of sophisticated equipment, as well as training and experience to spray foam insulation. Chemical companies will not sell individuals the supplies unless they have gone through rigorous training. The chances are too high of an unqualified individual incorrectly applying the foam insulation – Spray foam insulation cannot do its job of insulating if there are gaps, holes or pull-aways in the application – something a professional installer will prevent.