Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing?
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is a roofing system that is installed by spraying a chemical mixture onto the existing structure and allowing it to expand into a seamless foam surface. This foam is then coated with a silicone layer for protection. SPF roofing received its first UL rating in 1964, years before the more traditional roof systems.
Why is a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing system better than the others?
SPF roof systems are sustainable and renewable. Independent third-party Life Cycle Analysis indicates that SPF provides the best return on investment. It has no seams, creates a monolithic blanket of insulation and waterproofing. Ultra-high energy efficient insulation reduces energy demand and equipment maintenance expenses. Environmentally responsible low VOC protective coatings and zero-ozone depleting with ultra-low GWP products.
Does Spray Polyurethane Foam work in the north?
Early Spray Polyurethane Foam roof designs were susceptible to occasional mechanical damage by birds (crows and seagulls). This phenomenon has been stopped with the inclusion of granule surfacing embedded into the top coat.
Can you walk on Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing?
Yes, typical SPF used for roofing develops 40-50 pounds per square inch (psi) compressive strength. This is twice the compressive strength used in other insulation boards. Your residential refrigerator exerts 50 psi per support, so the SPF used for roofing is designed to accommodate moderate roof traffic.
Do birds eat Spray Polyurethane Foam?
Early Spray Polyurethane Foam roof designs were susceptible to occasional mechanical damage by birds (crows and seagulls). This phenomenon has been stopped with the inclusion of granule surfacing embedded into the top coat.
What are the advantages to a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roof?
The benefits of installing a spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing system, rather than another roof type, are numerous regarding installation, performance, cost, and longevity.
• Energy Efficient – SPF delivers thermal, air, and moisture barriers to provide the highest R-value per inch, which means the material provides better insulation for the building.
• Durability – the foam material can expand and contract with the building in accordance with outside temperatures, decreasing the likelihood of cracks and splitting.
• Seamless and Waterproof – since the SPF mixture is applied as a liquid, it can fill gaps, seams, and cracks in the existing roof and substrate.
• Environmentally Friendly – unlike other roofing systems, installing an SPF roof does not produce waste, and when properly maintained, SPF roofing systems stay out of landfills.
• Energy Efficient – SPF delivers thermal, air, and moisture barriers to provide the highest R-value per inch, which means the material provides better insulation for the building.
• Durability – the foam material can expand and contract with the building in accordance with outside temperatures, decreasing the likelihood of cracks and splitting.
• Seamless and Waterproof – since the SPF mixture is applied as a liquid, it can fill gaps, seams, and cracks in the existing roof and substrate.
• Environmentally Friendly – unlike other roofing systems, installing an SPF roof does not produce waste, and when properly maintained, SPF roofing systems stay out of landfills.
Can I install a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roof myself?
You can try but we don't recommend it. It might seem simple, but like with any profession, it takes years of experience to do things correctly. We also have all of the right knowledge (licenses and certifications), insurance and bonding. At Florida Foam USA, our teams hold many certifications: OSHA 500, 510, 7500 Certified Trainer, NRCA Certified in Fall Protection among others. Our Safety Director, Boz, regularly conducts training for our teams and makes sure that everyone is up to date on safety and installation standards.
How long does Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing last?
Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems is the only truly renewable and sustainable roof system available. A well-maintained SPF roof can last up to 50 years. And you can even restore your SPF roof with a silicone restoration to keep your roof in working order. The original and preceding warranties can be extended with a simple roof renewal process that costs a fraction of the initial investment.
How much does Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing cost?
Each situation has its unique challenges that cause the prices to fluctuate. We compete with all the viable and high performing commercial roofing systems. Many factors contribute to the cost of your new commercial roof.
Some of these factors include:
• The size of your roof
• Condition of the existing roof
• Roof access
• Insulation choice
• Membrane choice
• Installation choice
• Roof penetrations
• Type of Warranty
We can help you create a budget after one of our roofing experts performs a free roof assessment and creates a roof survey report for your facility.
Can you walk on Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing?
Yes, typical SPF used for roofing develops 40-50 pounds per square inch (psi) compressive strength. This is twice the compressive strength used in other insulation boards. Your residential refrigerator exerts 50 psi per support, so the SPF used for roofing is designed to accommodate moderate roof traffic.
What are the disadvantages to a Spray Polyurethane Foam Roof?
While the advantages of an SPF roofing system outweigh the disadvantages, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
• Hire the Right Professional – the application of the spray is a process that needs to be done correctly from the beginning.
• Timing is Everything – installation of an SPF roofing system cannot be performed during cold, windy, or rainy weather. In addition, the existing roof needs to be completely dry and pass an infrared moisture survey.
• Prone to Mechanical Damage – SPF does not have as high of resistance to punctures, from mechanical damage and in some regions, can be prone to birds pecking, as other roof systems; the repair process is straightforward with a standard cartridge of caulk, unlike other system repairs.