How to Choose a Construction Spray Foam Trailer
By Kevin MaloneWhen you are looking for a spray foam insulation trailer for your construction business, several options are available. You want to choose a spray foam trailer that meets your business needs and helps you provide quality services to your clients.
If you have the wrong equipment or trailer, or your rig is not built to industry standards, it can affect the quality of your work. While the equipment inside your trailer is crucial, the trailer you use to house it is important, too. Here are some key considerations when looking for a spray foam insulation trailer for your construction business.
Type of Jobs
Think about the size of the jobs you typically work on and how much foam you plan to apply. Select a trailer that is big enough to accommodate your spray foam machine and equipment.
The thickness of the insulation you apply will affect the size of the equipment you need. If you plan to apply thick insulation, you will need a machine to accommodate it and a spray foam insulation trailer with enough storage space.
Most spray foam insulation projects can require two to three sets of foam products, so you want to ensure you have appropriate storage space for the material.
Type of Equipment
You will need a spray foam machine compatible with the trailer you are considering and vice-versa. Look for equipment that is reliable and can handle the type of insulation you need to apply.
Although you can use just about any size unit, spray foam trailers typically come in sizes such as:
- 7’ x 12’
- 7’ x 14’
- 8.5’ x 18’
- 8.5’ x 20’
There are also 8’ x 16’ flatbed trailers. Mini-trailers may also be available for smaller-scale applications, starter rigs, or to supplement an existing rig.
Towable trailers for spray foam equipment can save you money over buying a box truck. They are also easier to switch to another truck in case your truck is in for maintenance or you trade it in for a new model.
Mobility and Weight
How often will you need to move the trailer to different job sites? If you will be hauling the trailer regularly, look for one that is easy to tow. You will also need to make sure your truck has the appropriate Gross Vehicle Weight Rating to handle the weight you will be hauling.
When considering weight limitations, you need to account for materials. A fully loaded trailer with full storage tanks will weigh more than an empty one. A fully-loaded 20-foot trailer, for example, might weigh as much as 4,000 pounds heavier when carrying two sets of foam.
You must also ensure proper weight load distribution for proper tongue weight. A properly balanced trailer will pull safely whether it is fully loaded and headed to a job or the tanks are empty on the return trip. This is especially important for a tag-along trailer. Make sure you have the right weight rating for a receiver hitch and the gooseneck distribution and that axles are mounted in the right position to accommodate the weight distribution safely.
Ventilation and Insulation
Spray foam insulation releases fumes. So, proper ventilation is important for worker safety.
Keeping materials at the proper temperature is crucial for spray foam application. You may want to choose a trailer that is insulated to reduce temperature variations. Other options include an air conditioner to regulate trailer temperate to prevent material from overheating and keep humidity down. In colder climates, you may want a heater to make it easier to warm up material for optimal spray temperatures.
Price
Whenever you buy equipment for your construction business, price is a contributing factor. The cost will vary depending on the size and equipment you want. You also have some options, such as:
- Buying a trailer and equipping it yourself
- Buying a spray foam trailer equipment package and doing the installation yourself
- Buying a turnkey, custom spray foam insulation trailer
- Buying a used spray foam rig
Intech Equipment & Supply can help you find the right spray foam insulation trailer for your construction business, including helping you with financing. Intech Equipment & Supply offers used spray foam equipment and trailers that are thoroughly inspected and tested.
The experts at Intech Equipment & Supply can help you equip or build the perfect spray foam trailer for your construction business. Contact Intech Equipment and Supply today.
About Kevin Malone
Kevin Malone is a leading expert in the spray foam insulation industry with 34 years of experience in spray foam fluid handling and a passion for innovation. He currently offers his extensive knowledge to Intech Equipment and Supply customers by supporting them in selecting quality spray foam equipment to optimize their business. Learn more about Kevin here.