Spray Polyurethane Foam, also known as SPF as well as spray applied foam roofing, has been around since the 1960s and has been used on residential, industrial, and commercial buildings. This kind of roofing system is appropriate for any type of climate and may last more than 50 years if it is properly installed and maintained.
We, here at Extreme Industrial Coatings Fresno, are experts in installing SPF roofs on various kinds of facilities across Central and Northern California. We will also give you more details about what spray polyurethane foam is, how it is used in roofing, as well as the benefits of using SPF.
Advantages of Spray Applied Foam Roofing
If you are searching for a roof type for your building or facility, SPF is a good choice because of the numerous benefits.
- Energy Efficiency
Spray applied foam roofing provides great insulation for your building because it provides moisture, air, and thermal barriers. In fact, it has the highest R-value per inch. As studies have also proven, energy savings due to its top insulation will help you recoup the value of your SPF roof in just 5 years. Because it will require less energy to cool and heat your building, it will allow you to get an Energy Star Certification.
- Durability
There are very few roofing systems that last as long as SPF. Whatever the weather or temperatures the roof is subject to, the foam adjusts by expanding or contracting. This means there is very little chance of cracks and splits.
Moreover, you can easily walk on your SPF roof without causing any damage. And if by any reason there is some damage on your roof, you can still expect to have no leaks because these punctures do not penetrate the whole layer due to the foam’s thickness
- Waterproof
The advantage of SPF is that it is applied while it is in liquid form. This means it fills in any seams, cracks, or gaps in your existing roof or substrate. There are also no seams in this type of roofing, which is why it will never leak. If it is installed by experts like us, there is no unevenness in the roof’s surface where water might eventually pool together.
- Environment-friendly
There is no waste product in the installation of an SPF roof and because it lasts longer, there is no need for new roofing materials to be installed.
Installation of an SPF Roof
Spray Polyurethane Foam is a liquid sprayed on and eventually expands
into a foam, thus forming a solid layer on an existing roof. If you choose spray applied foam roofing for your building’s roof, here are the steps involved in its installation.
Before it is applied, the existing roof, or the substrate, needs to be ready. There is no need to strip the entire roof, instead, we will prepare it by first removing all dust, dirt, and other contaminants. This is done by using air pressure, vacuum or even just by sweeping the surface.
The first layer to be applied is the polyurethane foam. We create this when 2 liquids, a polyol or resin, and an isocyanate, are combined. It will then be sprayed onto the substrate.
After spraying this liquid, it will turn into a foam that is 20 times in size and will eventually become a solid foam surface. In all, the layer can be between 1 to 1 ½ inch thick. This foam can be installed in any room because the polyurethane foam sticks to most surfaces.
On top of this layer of SPF, an upper coating is applied, made of elastomeric silicone or acrylic that contains some embedded granules. This layer is about 20 to 30 mils (one mil is equivalent to .001 inch, or a thousandth of an inch) thick. The second coating is important for the protection of the roof against UV light, wear and tear, as well as added weather protection. It is also necessary for fire ratings.
In just 2 steps, we will install your spray applied foam roof, coming up with a seamless and durable roof cover that is moisture-resistant and also renewable.
What To Watch Out For
The success of your SPF roof depends on the installation, which is why it is vital to hire professionals who have the skills to do it perfectly. We have the right knowledge of the chemicals used and the proper process of application. If you attempt to do it yourself or turn to someone unqualified, you might undermine your roof’s lifespan, as well as the substrate’s.
Another important note is that this kind of roofing cannot be installed when it is cold, windy, or raining. The existing roof should also be completely dry. Lastly, it might be prone to some punctures and damages, which is why you should call us whenever you see any sign of damage. We can repair it quickly and easily but rest assured that there is still a low chance of leaks due to the thickness of the foam layer.
If you are interested in having a spray applied foam roofing install in your facility, you may refer to us for any questions and inquiries. We are experts in the installation of SPF roofs across Central and Northern California and believe that this is a great option for any kind of building.