COLD WEATHER SPF APPLICATIONS
Dave Andre, Morrison Hershfield: In
our experience, the applications performed in cold weather are working
in Canada. However, new contractors/
installers need to be aware of the differences between warm and cold spraying, and the various techniques used for
successful applications. Cold-weather
formulas react differently than the regular or warm-weather formulas. The
onus is on the installer to be familiar
with the different weather formulations
and associated temperature limitations.
When the manufacturer’s parameters
are followed, we rarely see any issues.
If the parameters are not followed, prepare for a “gong show.” There are also
some varying conditions based on interior or exterior application. Exterior
applications have challenges related to
wind and snow.
ONE Generallyspeaking,whatisyourtakeonapplicationsbeing performedincoldweather?Specifically,howwelldoCanadiancontractors handlecoldinstallationconditionsandhowwellsuitedareSPFproducts forbeingappliedincoldconditions?
Brad Glazier, IF TI: It’s that time of
year again: the temperature starts to
drop and you need to start ordering
cold weather formulations. We all go
through it, and after a couple of weeks
of cursing the clogging tip, we remember last winter’s spray settings and get
back in the grove. At least we have the
option now of spraying in the winter; not so long ago there was no “C”
formulation and essentially business
stopped when it got too cold out. With
the correct formulation and attention
by the installer, cold weather spraying
is just another day at the office for the
Canadian SPF contractor.
Marc Kast, Elastochem: The real is-
sue is the transition from spraying in
warm weather to cold weather. Most
applicators forget to keep the materials
warm overnight, as it is still warm during
the day so they allow the materials to get
below 18 degrees C ( 64 degrees F). As
the temperatures begin to drop during
the daytime hours, they are more dili-
gent in ensuring the raw chemicals are
kept warm.
Adam Luffman, Urethane Foam Consultants: Application of spray foam in
cold conditions requires contractors
to keep a closer watch on the storage
conditions of their chemicals, as well
as monitor the suitability of substrate
and ambient temperature throughout
the application process. The risk of not
taking care in the upcoming season is
potentially foam that has poor adhesion
characteristics and is at a higher risk
of going off-ratio during installation.
Contractors can minimize these risks
by making sure their rigs are adequately prepared and they are working with
their chemical supplier to ensure they
have the most up-to-date information
regarding spray parameters. Manufacturers can provide the best guidance on
Discussion Point: Cold Weather Applications
