![Spray Foam Roofing Installation [Infographic]](https://westroofingsystems.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Spray-Foam-Roofing-Installation-Infographic-1480x340.jpg)
Here at West Roofing Systems, we’ve been installing Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofs for over 38 years. And in that time, one of the most common questions we’ve received from customers is, “How does spray polyurethane foam work?”
What is Spray Foam Roofing?
Spray Polyurethane Foam, more commonly referred to as SPF, is a material that is sprayed as a liquid so it can expand into a foam, creating a solid layer across an existing roof.
While SPF roofing is not the most known type of roofing material, the technology has been around since the early 1960s for industrial, commercial, and residential facilities. An SPF roofing system can be used in any climate, and when properly installed and maintained, can last over 50 years.
How is Spray Foam Installed?
- Before the installation can start, the existing roof (or substrate) needs to be prepared. Rather than stripping the existing roof, the contractor will most likely prepare the substrate by getting rid of all dirt, dust, and contaminants. This can be done with air pressure, vacuuming, or even just sweeping.
The first layer put down by the contractor is the polyurethane foam. This foam is created by combining two liquids (a polyol/resin and an isocyanate) as it’s sprayed onto the existing roof substrate.
As the liquid is sprayed onto the existing roof, it creates a foam that expands 20 times in size to form a solid, seamless foam surface. When the foam has expanded, this layer can be between 1 and 1.5 inches in thickness. Since the polyurethane foam adheres to most common surfaces, it can be installed on any roof slope.
When the SPF layer has been completed, it is then coated with a layer(s) of elastomeric silicone or acrylic coating with embedded granules. This layer is generally between 20 and 30 mils (a mil is a thousandth of an inch — .001 inch.) in thickness. The coating protects the roof and SPF from UV light, weather, normal wear and provides the required fire ratings.
When the installation is complete, it will create a seamless, durable, moisture-resistant renewable foam roof covering.
Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems are revolutionizing roofing for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing facilities. Contact West Roofing Systems today to talk to our expert staff about your future Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing Systems.
