What is Spray Polyurethane Foam?

Spray polyurethane foam, commonly referred to as SPF is a spray-applied insulating foam plastic that is installed as a liquid and then expands many times its original size. Spray polyurethane foam can be adjusted and have many different physical properties depending on the use desired.

How does applicator install the system?

Specialized equipment is used to apply the spray polyurethane foam and proper technical training is important in order to get the best results.

How long does SPF roof last?

The oldest performaing SPF roofs in the world are over 30 years old. In Saudi Arabia, we have come across SPF roofs which are more than 15 years old. Because the physical properties of the SPF change little with age, how long the SPF roof system lasts depends primarily on the original application and long term maintenance. SPF life can always be extended by recoating SPF after 10 or 15 years.

What are the benefits of SPF?

• SPF acts as a thermal insulation material and also as a waterproofing material
• SPF reduces drafts and increases comfort
• SPF helps maintain a comfortable, constant, temperature throughout the building, from room to room and floor to floor
• SPF assists in improving indoor air quality
• Excellent insulation efficiency of SPF can reduce heating and cooling usage dramatically
• HVAC equipment can be down-sized, thereby reducing construction costs
• SPF can be maintained, repaired or reroofed very easyily
• SPF helps conserve energy, reducing CO2 emissions
• SPF contributes LEED credits for sustainable, green construction
• SPF can help reduce structural damage caused by high winds
• SPF contains no formaldehyde or ozone depleting substances

How is it better than other insulation materials?

SPF insulation properties are high because it is sprayed seamlessly without any joints. It also has the best R-Value amongst other insulation materials available in the market. It is the best when it comes to difficult structures because it adopts itself to the shape of the structure. Because of its waterproofing properties, it eliminates the need for two systems in a building

Why do you need coatings or coverings over SPF?

SPF is water resistant without other coverings; however, the surface of SPF can deteriorate under the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Typically, elastomeric coatings or aggregate coverings are used to protect the SPF against UV radiation.

Is SPF a good soundproofing material?

Both low and medium (2lb/cubic/ft) density SPF effectively reduce noise from outside sources by sealing cracks and gaps that allow sound to travel through the walls, floors and ceilings into the building. They are less effective against noise caused by vibration.

What are the other benefits of SPF?

• SPF is a very light weight material when compared to other waterproofing plus thermal insulation materials
• SPF excels where slope must be added to provide positive drainage
• Since SPF acts as a thermal insulation and waterproofing material, it reduces the thickness of the whole system when compared to other solutions like, Membrane plus Polystyrene sheets, etc
• Since SPF is a fully adhesive material, it is very easy to identify the water leak if any other a loosely laid material
• SPF can be applied on any type of roof for example, concrete, wood, steel, fabric etc

Spray Polyurethane Form Datasheet (PDF's)

• Bayer Material Science
• Kuwait Polyurethane Industry