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Understanding the Installation Process of Spray Foam Insulation for Commercial Buildings

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Understanding the Installation Process of Spray Foam Insulation for Commercial Buildings Blog Feature
Eric Garcia

By: Eric Garcia on July 3rd, 2024

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Are you wondering what the installation process is like for spray foam insulation in a pole barn or a 20,000-square-foot commercial building?

Let’s dive into the details as we thoroughly explain this installation process.

What to Expect During a Spray Foam Insulation Project

Spray foam insulation projects, especially those for commercial buildings or pole barns, seem chaotic at times.

As a consumer, you might look at the scene and think it’s a mess. Rest assured, with a competent contractor, the mess is temporary and will be cleaned up once the job is done.

Prepping the Building

The first step in the spray foam installation process is preparation.

This involves covering and protecting various parts of the building to ensure that the spray foam only goes where it’s supposed to. If items in the building, like vehicles, machinery, or tools, need to be protected, they would need to be either moved outside of the structure or covered in plaster.

Why Spray the Roof Deck First?

Spraying the roof deck first has several benefits.

First, the prep work required for the roof deck is extensive, so getting it out of the way early makes sense. 

Second, spraying the roof deck first helps prevent splatter or overspray on the walls, which can be cleaned up when the walls are sprayed.

Spraying the Walls

After the roof deck, the team moves on to the exterior walls.

If the walls are going to be left exposed, closed cell spray foam is a good option, as it is durable and can withstand being knocked into.

The Importance of Cleanup

Once the spraying is completed, the next critical step is the cleanup.

This involves removing all of the protective coverings and any excess foam that may have strayed from its intended target. For instance, garage doors that were prepped and sprayed will now be cleaned, ensuring a neat finish.

Post-Project Walkthrough

A good contractor knows the importance of a thorough walkthrough with the property owner once the installation and cleanup are complete.

This step ensures that the homeowner is satisfied with both the spraying and the cleanup. It’s also an opportunity to address any issues immediately, saving time and money in the long run.

Why Choose Spray Foam Insulation for Commercial Buildings and Pole Barns?

Spray foam insulation offers numerous benefits, particularly for commercial buildings and pole barns.

Let’s explore some of these advantages.

Energy Efficiency

One of the most significant benefits of spray foam insulation is its superior energy efficiency.

By providing an airtight seal, spray foam helps to maintain consistent temperatures inside the building, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This leads to substantial energy savings, which is a big win for commercial building owners.

Durability

Closed cell spray foam is incredibly durable.

It’s not only strong but also resistant to moisture and pests, which can be a significant issue in commercial buildings. This durability ensures that the insulation will last for many years, providing a good return on investment.

Sound Dampening

Commercial buildings and pole barns often require some kind of noise cancellation.

Whether it’s to keep noise from escaping or to prevent outside noise from entering, spray foam insulation can definitely help. While it won’t completely soundproof the building, the air barrier it creates can help reduce sound transmission.

Moisture Barrier

Moisture can be a big problem for commercial buildings, leading to mold and mildew issues.

Closed cell spray foam acts as an effective moisture barrier, protecting the building’s structure and improving indoor air quality.

Spray Foam Insulation for Pole Barns and Commercial Buildings

Spray Foam insulation is a versatile and highly effective solution for commercial buildings.

Whether you’re insulating a pole barn or a large warehouse, the process involves careful preparation, skilled application, and thorough cleanup. By choosing an experienced contractor, you can ensure that the installation process goes smoothly and the results are top-notch.

If you think spray foam insulation could benefit your commercial building or pole barn, be sure to check out our Find a Dealer page. While our dealers specialize in injection foam insulation, many also offer spray foam. Our network of dealers can provide you with more information and help you get started on making your building more energy-efficient and durable.

Related Articles

What is the Difference Between RetroFoam Injection Foam and Spray Foam Insulation?

The Best Spray Foam Insulation for Your Pole Barn: Open Cell, Closed Cell, or Both

Installing Spray Foam Insulation in Metal Buildings When It’s Cold

Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation on Commercial Garage Doors

Find a RetroFoam Dealer

About Eric Garcia

Eric brings his knowledge and training in building science, training in spray and injection foams from the manufacturers, more than eight years installing foam insulation, as well as selling and managing in the foam insulation industry. He is also BPI and Dale Carnegie certified and has taken several building science courses, including air sealing and building envelope. Eric is the Professor of Foam on our educational YouTube series Foam University. Even when Eric is off he is usually still “working” or thinking about work, but when he can get away he enjoys camping, hiking, hunting, and woodworking.