How to Bond Foam Insulation to Plywood

The addition of a layer of foam insulation to a plywood wall can greatly improve the energy efficiency of the structure it is a part of. Foam insulation panels have the advantages of light weight and high insulating values, and can be attached to walls using readily available commercial adhesives.

Measuring tape
Foam panels
Pencil
Utility knife
Straightedge
Construction adhesive
Caulk gun

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the piece of plywood you wish to bond the foam insulation panel to. Mark the measurements onto the foam panel with a pencil.
- 2
  Place a straightedge onto the panel at the measured points. Score the foam insulation panel with a sharp utility knife, then bend the panel to snap off any excess foam.
- 3
  Turn the foam insulation panel over so the coated or covered side is face down. Insert a tube of construction adhesive into the caulk gun. Apply a 1/2-inch-thick bead of adhesive around the perimeter of the panel, then coat the rest of the panel with beads of adhesive separated by several inches.
- 4
  Flip the panel over and apply to the plywood. Press firmly on the panel over the entire area to ensure good adhesion. Let the adhesive dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before using the plywood.

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