Improper Mixture of a Foam Roof & Air Bubbles

Mixing

• Spray foam must be mixed immediately before it is applied to start the proper chemical reaction. This mixing is one of the most important stages -- too little of one component, and the foam will not dry correctly, creating bubbles that are too large or not make enough bubbles to provide any real insulation benefit. The correct ratio is typically one-to-one. Hasty work can result in small changes in the mixture which can cause permanent problems.

Storage

• Storage also affects how spray foam is mixed and applied. If the chemicals have been improperly stored or are old, then they may not react properly with each other. The result can be a lack of adhesion or a lack of the necessary air bubbles in the resulting foam spread. Quality spray foam is made from chemicals that have been correctly stored in a warehouse and are still within the proper age requirements.

Temperature

• Temperature is one of the most important factors in spray foam performance. Cold temperatures can be especially dangerous, because they can change how spray foam components pour and mix, which leads directly to application troubles. It may be better to wait for a warmer day rather than apply the foam in cold conditions and risk improper air pocket formation. The chemicals should be stored in a location where temperature can be controlled.

Application

• Finally, application matters when it comes to quality spray foam. Even if the mixture is correct, it must be sprayed correctly. The spray gun should be held at perpendicular angle to the roof, not at a slant, which causes the foam to peel off as it forms and dries. Slow and overlapping application is necessary to help prevent any unwanted ridges.