Frequently Asked Questions about Applied Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) Roofing and Insulation
Can I buy SPF and do it myself?
No. Correctly applied Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) roofing requires special equipment and properly trained technicians.
Why use The Ex-El Co. to apply my foam roof/insulation system?
The Ex-El Co. has more years of experience in spray foam roofing system applications than any other Contractor in New Mexico. We also have the BEST warranty programs—Ten (10) and Twenty (20) years— which include FREE leak repair. Warranties can also be renewed and transferred as needed. Our Maintenance & Inspection Program is unique in the industry and offered at a low cost.
How long has SPF been around?
SPF was developed during World War II for flotation. Later, it was determined that the insulation value of the material was so good it was utilized in environments where high-efficiency insulation is a must, such as freezers and coolers. In time, roofs were coated with SPF to waterproof and insulate, and it finally evolved into the UL-rated roofing and wall systems of today.
Is SPF expensive?
The price of a spray foam roofing system or wall system might be higher initially, but the cost of owning it is less. Heating and cooling costs drop an average of 30% to 50% and the creation of an airtight building envelope allows for total interior environmental control. An SPF system will easily pay for itself through energy savings.
Does SPF have formaldehyde in it?
SPF contains no formaldehyde.
Does SPF off-gas or have an odor after it has been applied?
No. Sprayed SPF cures into a rigid plastic and produces no latent fumes or gases.
Does SPF absorb water like a sponge?
Properly applied SPF is a mostly closed-cell material and will not absorb water. However, SPF is not a vapor barrier and will allow a building to “breath”, eliminating potential mold and mildew issues.
Is a vapor barrier required when using SPF in roofs and walls?
It is always best to consult an architect or engineer to answer these questions on each specific project, but in general, except in high humidity environments, a vapor barrier is not necessary.
Can you walk on SPF?
Yes. SPF used for roofing has a compressive strength of approximately 45 pounds per square inch.
Is SPF a good insulator?
Yes; it’s the best! SPF has a stated R-factor of R-6.8 per inch. The effective R-factor, however, is much higher due to the inherent properties of foam because it fully adheres to substrates, and is seamless and rigid.
Will SPF stick to my roof or walls?
SPF will adhere to almost all clean, dry surfaces.
How long will SPF last?
When applied as a spray foam roofing system or insulation system, SPF has been shown to last 20+ years with no internal degradation. We feel the lifespan is much higher when the system is properly maintained; that’s why we offer clients our exclusive Maintenance and Inspection Program.
Will SPF crack on my roof or wall?
SPF has elongation properties that allow it to expand and contract with the building and the heating and cooling of the day.
Can SPF withstand hurricanes?
Because SPF is a “structural” material giving strength and flexibility to the surfaces on which it is applied, buildings with SPF-coated roofs or walls have survived storms better than roofs built with conventional building materials.
What is the service temperature range of SPF?
The temperature range for SPF goes from very cold (-100 F) to very hot (+225 F).
Does SPF burn?
SPF will burn and has flame-spread and burn characteristics similar to white pine.