Ready for insulation
Using spray-on foam insulation costs more than traditional fiberglass insulation pads, but there are a number of benefits that make it worth the expense. Not only does spray-on insulation do a better job of reducing energy costs, but it also adds to the structural integrity of the building. Spray-on insulation is also easier to fit into small spaces or hard-to-reach areas. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Choose a spray-on insulation to use for the do-it-yourself project. There are many spray-on insulation products on the market, but many are only available in commercial orders consisting of multiple barrels of product. Tiger Foam (see Resources) offers a spray-foam kit that is just the right size for a single application. Other manufacturers are considering the DIY market, but Tiger Foam is clearly blazing the trail.
2. Take the proper safety precautions by wearing protective clothing. Thick rubber gloves and safety glasses are essential equipment for anyone who will be installing spray-on insulation. It is also recommended that you wear some form of mask or respirator while spraying the foam insulation.
3. Prepare the surface to be foamed. Clean away any grease, oil, dirt, dust or water from the area where spray-on insulation will be applied. Bring the tank of spray foam to the area and shake the tank vigorously to mix the contents.
4. Attach a spray nozzle to the dispensing unit of the spray foam. Smear a little petroleum jelly on the face of the dispensing unit before attaching the nozzle. Using petroleum jelly helps keep the nozzle clean and protects against a buildup of dried insulation or chemicals. Once you have rubbed petroleum jelly over the surface, the nozzle should easily slide into place.
5. Turn on the tank. The tank contains two valves, labeled A and B. Turn both valves on to full power by turning them counter-clockwise.
6. Squeeze the trigger very slowly. Begin by pulling the trigger in ½ way to ¾ until the desired spray patter is established. Once the spray reaches the desired pattern, the trigger can be squeezed in the rest of the way. Note that if you release the trigger and stop spraying, you will have to either resume the spray within 30 seconds or replace the nozzle, as foam chemical will dry in the nozzle within that time.
7. Hold the sprayer 6 to 8 inches away from the surface you are insulating, and spray back and forth, or up and down, in wide sweeping motions. The insulation will also act as an adhesive and bond the house together at the same time as it insulates. Spray one section until the entire area is covered, them move to the next area.
8. Turn off both valves and dispose of the tank. Follow the disposal instructions written on the tank. Be aware that the tank will probably still be pressurized and may also be full of toxic fumes, so exercise extreme caution during disposal. In many cases you will return the empty tank to the place where you purchased the spray-on insulation.
Tags: spray-on insulation, petroleum jelly, both valves, dispensing unit, foam insulation, insulation also, insulation will
