Spray foam is one of the most energy-efficient forms of insulation for protecting a home or business. However, there are some areas around homes and commercial buildings that contractors should avoid spraying for safety reasons. Here is a quick look into spray foam safety guidelines with the five places you should not apply spray foam.
Near Heating Appliances
Spray foam insulation is a flammable material, especially in spray form. This means contractors need to exercise caution when applying spray foam. Contractors should never apply foam near heat sources such as heaters, HVAC units, and more. Additionally, contractors should never use portable heaters during the application process due to the flammable nature of the spray. Contractors can use heaters to warm a space, but they should always remove these heat sources before spraying.
Light Fixtures
Lighting in homes, attics, basements, and more also generates heat. Use caution when spraying foam around ceiling lights, canister lights, and other fixtures. Because spray foam provides heat resistance, spraying insulation near these fixtures can trap heat and lead to fire hazards. Additionally, you could cause damage to the lighting itself if overspray coats the light fixture or its wiring.
Around Electrical Boxes
Electrical sources can pose fire risks, especially when flammable objects are nearby. Flammable spray foam materials could amplify the fire risk the electrical boxes and other sources pose. Some foams can be more flammable than others. Still, contractors should avoid using spray foam around fire risks like these. Additionally, overspray from the spray foam application could potentially damage the wiring and delicate parts inside electrical boxes and other appliances.
Leaking Parts/Appliances
While some varieties of spray foam, such as closed-cell foam, possess water-resistant qualities, homeowners shouldn’t use them as a solution for leaks. Closed-cell foams can help prevent water damage from moisture buildup, but they won’t be as effective at blocking leaks and streams of water. Other expanding foam types, such as open-cell foam, aren’t as waterproof, making them poor treatments for water damage.
High-Expansion Foam Near Windows and Doors
High-expansion spray foam can impact the ease of using a home’s windows, doors, and other fixtures. While spray foam is an ideal insulator for preventing drafts around these parts of your home, avoid using high-expansion foams. This type of foam can push door and window jambs inward, making it difficult or even impossible to open and close them.
Now that you know these five places you shouldn’t apply spray foam, you can promote optimal spray foam safety on a job site. If you’re a beginner contractor looking for a spray foam insulation system while you review these safety basics, browse our selection at Spray Foam Systems. We carry spray foam systems and safety equipment from all the top brands.
