Spray Foam Insulation

Providing insulation and moisture resistance to metal buildings and metal roof assemblies in retrofit help maintain new and renovated building projectsBy Rick Tucker & Mason Knowles

 

Metal and ccSPF share similar characteristics—for example, both are lightweight, durable, and adaptable to a range of circumstances.

 

The use of ccSPF can impart a number of high-performance attributes to metal roofing and cladding assemblies, from high R-value thermal insulation and good acoustical performance to wind uplift resistance and increased racking strength.

 

Replacing metal roofing and wall panels may cost $10 to $13 per square foot. In contrast, a ccSPF application can range from $3 to $5 per square foot less than half the cost and provide extra insulation and waterproofing, in addition to other benefits.

 

When properly designed, constructed, and maintained, a metal building or roof assembly should last 15 to 30 years before requiring serious maintenance. Nevertheless, thousands of metal building and roofing assemblies need retrofit or replacement long before the end of their expected lifespan.

 

Factors critical for energy efficiency and durability must be addressed in new and retrofit construction.

 

These include:

 

Thermal shock movement;

 

Moisture condensation;

 

Uncontrolled air movement;

 

Thermal bridging; and

 

Radiant heat absorption.

 

Closed-cell sprayed polyurethane foam can help solve many of these concerns. The material is sprayed onto a surface as a liquid. Within seconds the foam while still in a fluid-like state expands 30 to 40 times

 

its original volume to form a lightweight insulation, filling cracks, crevices, and areas difficult to reach with other products.

 

The material can be installed as a roofing system (or insulated exterior wall covering), or applied to the interior walls and ceiling. Both options have distinctive benefits. Various factors determine which system is appropriate for a specific metal building project.