The SPF System as it is commonly referred to is a closed cell roofing and insulating membrane that is sprayed-in-place on site. The foam membrane is then coated with an elastomeric coating to help protect the foam from the elements such as ultraviolet degradation
Example of Foam Application: Energy Savings
Since 1975, Texas A&M University has exclusively used SPF roof systems to protect campus buildings from the elements. In addition to leak free protection the University has realized tremendous cost reduction through energy savings. The results of an in-house survey are listed below indicating a four and a half year payback, strictly through reduced utility bills.
SEAMLESS
Sprayed polyurethane foam forms a seamless insulated roofing system. It has no joints or seams that often allow outside water and air to pass through the roofing system into the building structure. Whether a roof is 10,00 square feet, 100,000 square feet or larger in size, it will have no seams.
ELIMINATES FLASHING LEAKS
Because sprayed polyurethane foam conforms to the substrate and when installed, is a seamless system, it is ideal for flashing parapet walls, roof penetrations and roof mounted equipment, including vents, pipes, stacks, HVAC equipment, skylights, and cooling towers. Many roof leaks are caused by faulty flashings. Sprayed polyurethane foam solves the problem.
ELIMINATION OF PONDING WATER
In reroofing applications, ponding of water may be eliminated by adding an increased thickness of polyurethane foam in low areas. Building up the low areas and sloping the roof so that it drains properly will eliminate ponding water and the additional load factor that is caused by water accumulation.
LIGHTWEIGHT
The weight of polyurethane foam is between 2-3 pounds per cubic foot. One inch of polyurethane foam insulation plus 30 mils of an elastomeric coating weight approximately 60 pounds per 100 square feet, as compared to approximately 600 pounds per 100 square feet for a typical conventional four-ply built-up roofing system. This makes a sprayed polyurethane foam system ideal for reroofing as it is often possible to apply over an existing built-up roof without removing it.
HIGHEST “R” VALUE
Sprayed polyurethane foam has an R-value of 7.14 per 1 inch thickness, enabling it to provide more thermal resistance with less material than any other insulation.
CHEMICALLY STABLE
Sprayed polyurethane foam, although inert, must be protected from sunlight by a UV resistant elastomeric coating. It is odorless, resists attack by either mildew or fungi and has no nutritive value.
MINIMIZES THERMAL SHOCK
Because a polyurethane foam roofing system is seamless, has a high “R” value and is covered by a reflective elastomeric coating, it greatly reduces the thermal shock a building is subjected to because of fluctuating outdoor temperatures.
VERSATILITY
It can be used on both new and replacement roofs, whether flat, pitched, saw-toothed, domed or having unusual slopes or configurations. It is also ideal for the spray application to tanks, freezers, coolers, piping, ductwork and various aerospace projects.
RIGIDITY
While sprayed polyurethane foam is very light weight, it is strong and will not pack down or sag.
FLEXIBILITY
It has the ability to withstand a structures normal expansion and contraction without affecting the ability to keep the structure protected from the outside elements.
WATERTIGHT
Polyurethane foam is made of billions of minute closed cells which resists the penetration of water and vapors. It must, however, be protected by an elastomeric coating suited for use in that particular environment.
LONG LASTING
The elastomeric coating system which protects the polyurethane foam can be rejuvenated by the re- application of of additional coatings after the initial coatings system has weathered after many years of service.
EASE OF APPLICATION
A sprayed polyurethane system can be applied in a relatively short period of time with little or no disruption of building operations by an experienced qualified polyurethane foam contractor.
EASE OF MAINTENANCE
Minor repairs or modifications to a polyurethane system can be made by in-house maintenance personnel at minimal cost. All that is needed is a hand caulking gun and a tube of caulking.