Why Spray Foam is an Essential Commercial Roofing Material

Spray foam has become one of the essential commercial roofing materials that contractors depend on to build energy-efficient, durable structures. In the not-too-distant past, the benefits of spray foam were not well-known, and many commercial buildings used materials with poor R-values and limited heat-reflective capabilities.

The limitations of other types of insulation motivatedmanufacturers to offer a better building insulation solution. Spray foam, whichemerged on the insulation scene around 1970, hit the ground running after theyear 2000 due to new insulation and airtightness standards. Since then, sprayfoam has been gaining popularity in the roofing insulation industry.

Intech Equipment and Supply is a proud supplier of commercial roofing proportioners, guns, and accessories that make quality installations possible. Here is why the roofing industry recognizes spray foam as an essential commercial roofing material.

Excellent Spray Foam Qualities

In the history of human innovation, new products andmaterials usurped old methods.  Whensomeone created a material or service that did a better job than itspredecessors, its respective industry caught on. Likewise, spray foam is simplya better insulator and roof coating material.

Here are its key strengths:

1. Higher insulation values. While fiberglass has an R-value that caps at 2.2 and decreases as it ages, spray foam can have an R-value of 6.5 or even 7 and maintain that value for decades.
2. Energy-efficiency. Spray foam boasts one of the highest energy-efficiency rates in the construction industry. It is even considered to be one of the best energy upgrades a building can request. In commercial properties, operators spend a lot of money keeping the interior at the right temperature. Saving on heating and cooling costs keeps money in the business.
3. Water-resistance. Closed-cell spray foam is water-resistant, and some higher density versions are even waterproof. Since water is a common cause of roof damage, having water-resistant insulation adds a line of defense that can protect from damage until owners can get the repairs they need.
4. It's lightweight. Adding heavy insulation onto a roof can cause undue stress and burdens on the entire building. However, spray foam is lightweight (3 lbs/foot) and can be used for re-roofing without removing an existing structure.
5. Spray foam lasts almost 100 years. Spray foam can last 80+ years while the maximum life of fiberglass before a recommended replacement is 20 years. So even though it costs more to install spray foam, it is usually a one-time application for a person's average lifetime.
6. Resists heat. Commercial SPF roofing with a white elastomeric coating can withstand extreme heat and normal expansion and contraction. These roofs, which are called 'cool roofs,' stay at a lower temperature than traditional commercial roofs. The white coating and high R-value of the SPF material work together to reflect sunlight and keep the heat from entering the roof. This reduces the energy the HVAC uses to keep the building cool.
7. It does triple duty to protect your home. In the construction industry, closed-cell spray foam is at once a code-approved vapor barrier, air barrier, and thermal insulator. In many situations, spray foam and work in your favor to strengthen and preserve your commercial building.
8. Simple, fastener-free application. While traditional roof materials need to be nailed down with metal fastenings, spray foam roofs simply adhere to the roof deck without requiring extra work to secure it.
9. Can stop ponding. On commercial flat roofs, water 'ponding' is a common issue. As the roof becomes uneven or sags, water collects in pools in these areas after rain. But applying spray foam to these areas can fill in the area and even out the surface. Also, once in place, they are less likely to sag due to their rigidity and lightweight nature.
10. Mold-resistant and Odorless. SPF is not made of organic materials like wood. It is also inert. This means spray foam resists mildew, fungi, and water damage. Also, when applying spray foam, surrounding businesses won't be subjected to construction smells because SPF insulation is odorless.
11. Quick to install. Spray foam commercial roofs are lightweight enough to be applied over existing roofs, which spares contractors the tedious job of taking apart and building a new roof. There isn't a lot of manpower required either to apply spray foam. All you need is the right spray foam equipment to make sure the materials are processed correctly and applied seamlessly.

Commercial Spray Foam Equipment For Sale

If you need dependable spray foam roofing equipment, look nofurther than Intech Equipment and Supply. We carry excellent spray foam productsthat are known for their performance and reputation in the roofing industry.

Contact us to learn about our custom spray foam rigs, machines, guns, and accessories can enrich your spray foam roofing business.

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.