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Guidelines for Proper Use of Polyurethane Foams in Summer
Using polyurethane foams during the summer requires careful attention and adherence to proper practices. Applying foam to surfaces demands precision, with appropriate ambient and canister temperatures being key to achieving optimal results. Projects on sunny days should be planned for suitable times, avoiding direct sunlight exposure. Learn how to use polyurethane foams effectively in summer conditions to prevent issues and achieve the best outcomes.
BOSTIK FIXPRO FOAM GLUE TURBO+
BOSTIK FIXPRO FOAM GLUE TURBO+
BOSTIK FIXPRO FOAM GLUE TURBO+ is a revolutionary, strong, and fast-curing adhesive in polyurethane foam form. Perfect for mounting window and door frames, bonding cladding, panels, decorative elements, and filling gaps. Thanks to its express performance, it takes only 60 seconds to apply the foam, followed by an additional 60 seconds to achieve strong initial adhesion. This year-round product is ideal for use in temperatures ranging from -10°C to +35°C. It offers excellent adhesion to a variety of surfaces, including gypsum boards (G-K), OSB, HDF, MDF, polystyrene (EPS/XPS), as well as wood, plaster, stone, concrete, and ceramics.
FOAM’N’FILL PRO B3 P305
FOAM’N’FILL PRO B3 P305
FOAM’N’FILL PRO B3 P305 is an advanced low-expansion gun foam based on single-component polyurethane. It is specially designed for mounting, insulating, and sealing applications. Utilizing an intelligent chemical reaction with moisture present in the air and building materials, it ensures effective and durable bonding.
Principles for Proper Use of Polyurethane Foams in Summer
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- Before application, thoroughly clean and degrease the working surface, especially smooth and even ones, such as glazed, enameled, or PVC and steel surfaces. Use alcohol-based cleaners or extraction benzine for this purpose, avoiding solvents like acetone or xylene, which may damage substrates such as polystyrene or PVC.
- Before filling gaps with foam, generously mist them with water using a pressure sprayer, creating a fine mist to ensure the surface is completely and evenly moistened.
- After applying foam into the gap, mist the surface again.
- For gaps deeper than 4-5 cm, apply the foam in layers, waiting 5 minutes between layers, and mist each layer with water before proceeding.
- The cylinder temperature during application should range from +5°C to +30°C, with the optimal temperature being +20°C. This applies to the surrounding environment and surfaces as well. Temperatures exceeding +30°C negatively affect the foam's properties.
- On hot and sunny days, when the work area is exposed to direct sunlight (e.g., the southern side of a building), apply foam only during times when the sun is low—early morning or late evening—or when the sky is overcast.
- In exceptional cases, where possible, plan the work so that the foam is applied in shaded areas or under a canopy.
- If this is not feasible, particularly when surface temperatures exceed +30°C, the foam may not perform correctly. Instead of expanding and forming a regular, fine-cell structure, the foam may liquefy, run off vertical surfaces, fail to expand, and adhere poorly to the substrate. Additionally, CO2 gas is released into the atmosphere, creating open craters and blisters on the foam's surface.
- Insufficient or inadequate misting may lead to excessive shrinkage and collapse of the foam.
- Foam should be stored and transported in an upright position at temperatures between +5°C and +25°C. Temperatures above +30°C can shorten the shelf life, causing premature aging, thickening, and difficulties in extrusion and adhesion. Storing and transporting foam at temperatures above +30°C accelerates its degradation, reducing usability.
To make the most of polyurethane foams during summer, it’s essential to follow a few key guidelines. Thoroughly clean and degrease the surface before foam application, and ensure proper moistening of gaps to improve bonding and the durability of seals. Pay close attention to the ambient temperature and cylinder temperature to avoid performance issues, especially on hot days. Scheduling work during cooler times of the day—early morning or late evening—or providing shade from direct sunlight can significantly enhance the quality of the application.
Improper use of foam may result in undesirable effects such as shrinkage, collapse, or poor adhesion to surfaces. By adhering to these principles, you can achieve excellent results in mounting, insulating, and sealing applications with polyurethane foams.
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