The differences between low-pressure and high-pressure spray foam can leave homeowners and beginner contractors alike scratching their heads. Most of the differences come from the spray volume and applications of each type of foam. To utilize your low or high-pressure system properly, you need to know the best applications and techniques of your unique system. Learn more about low-pressure spray foam rigs and how to use them to the best of their ability with these tips.
Low-Pressure Versus High-Pressure
The first thing to know before approaching your low-pressure spray foam machine is how it differs from a high-pressure system. This will help you know what to expect from your equipment and enable you to put it to optimal use. The main difference between low and high-pressure spray foam machines is the spray output. A high-pressure system will have a greater foam application rate, meaning it can cover a greater area in less time. Low-pressure spray foam kits feature a more concentrated spray area. While this might sound like a clear downgrade in comparison, there are many benefits of choosing a low-pressure spray foam rig for your business.
Benefits of Low-Pressure Spray Foam
The benefits of choosing a low-pressure spray foam rig include everything from cost to ease of use. Like any purchase you make for your business, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons, which is where these benefits come into play. Here is a quick rundown of all the benefits you can expect from investing in a low-pressure system.
Cost
Generally, the cost of owning and operating a high-pressure spray foam system will be greater than that of a low-pressure one. High-pressure rigs have higher starting costs and include more equipment. Low-pressure systems are usually smaller than their high-pressure counterparts. Unfortunately, more equipment often equals more repair costs in the future regarding high-pressure rigs. You can find small, low-pressure spray foam DIY kits at your local hardware store at a low price. This helps these kits stay affordable and more available to homeowners and beginners.
Availability
The ability to pick up a low-pressure spray foam kit at your local hardware store greatly broadens their availability. This is beneficial to the average consumer and spray foam contractors alike. Whenever you need a spray foam refill, you can easily find a low-pressure foam can locally. While their availability makes it easier to complete spray foam DIY projects, many homeowners will still consult or seek out professional help. Even smaller spray foam projects can intimidate many homeowners, so this extra availability won’t hinder your business.
Safety
Because low-pressure spray systems often include lighter equipment and less pressure, the rigs are much safer to operate. Low-pressure systems have a smaller learning curve required to use them. These systems are what many beginner contractors start with.
The smaller and more focused the project, the less bulky equipment the contractor will need. This can help prevent bodily strain and accidents while on the job. Of course, you’ll still need the proper PPE and safety equipment while using these machines, but low-pressure spray systems can feel less intimidating to operate.
Ease of Use
Because low-pressure spray foam systems have a lower spray rate, you’ll likely use them for smaller spaces and projects. A lack of bulky equipment is important here; otherwise, you might not be able to operate in small spaces. Fortunately, low-pressure spray foam systems feature streamlined equipment that is easy to use and transport. Most two-component low-pressure spray foam kits range from five to thirty pounds, which is very easy to transport. As we already mentioned, the learning curve for mastering smaller, low-pressure machines is lower. This means you’ll have an easier time using and mastering this equipment. Mastering your equipment can help you build your business and results in high-quality sprays that your customers will be thrilled to see.
How To Apply Low-Pressure Spray Foam
Professional, low-pressure spray foam kits require two-component mixing, which means they will operate similarly to other systems. Heated spray foam systems make the mixing and application processes easier and maintain the quality of your spray foam. As always, make sure to let the foam expand fully before spraying another layer. This will prevent you from packing the foam down. Working in a crawl space or attic means you’ll have less room to work in, but the size and movement of the low-pressure spray foam system can help accommodate these applications.
Applications for Low-Pressure Spray Foam
Another way to ensure you’re using your low-pressure spray foam rig properly is to limit your sprays to the applications that make the most sense for your machine. Low-pressure spray foam rigs specialize in small-scale, residential projects. Save the large-scale, commercial spray projects for your high-pressure systems. Tackling a large project with a low-pressure system could take twice the time and require a surplus of foam materials. Some of the best locations for low-pressure systems to spray include attics, crawl spaces, residential homes, surrounding windows, and garages.
Choosing the Right Spray Foam System for You
When determining which type of spray foam system to purchase for your business, remember the differences between low and high-pressure systems. If you’re just starting out as a beginner contractor, consider starting your spray foam journey with a low-pressure system. The ease of use and other benefits make this the perfect choice for newcomers. However, if you anticipate large-scale spray foam jobs, browse the high-pressure system models. Many other factors can influence your system choice, such as the type of foam and the system’s power.
Low-pressure spray foam machines are extremely useful to many contractors. If you have a low-pressure spray foam rig, we hope our guide has helped you better understand how to use it properly. If you’re in need of spray foam equipment, remember these tips when picking the right machine for your business. No matter what type of spray foam machine you’re looking for, we can help you find the model you need at Spray Foam Systems. We offer a wide selection of low-pressure spray foam machines and more for you to browse.
