When looking for roofing material, you want something that’s durable and rigid. It just so happens that foam roofing meets all of that criteria. So what is a foam roof? Famously referred to as sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF), it is a foam plastic that has been insulated with spray. In simple terms, it is a combination of two chemical components, isocyanate and polyol which are fed through a spray gun, heated and pumped to the roofing surface in form of a liquid. As the chemicals react, they expand, and thus form a strong and rigid material. Besides, as the component is applied on the roof surface, the foam traps tiny air bubbles which make the material efficient in insulating the roof against cold and heat.
Advantages of Foam Roofing
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Provides ‘Green’ Renewable Roofing
Besides being sustainable, a ‘green’ roof system should be energy saving. Foam roofs are renewable, and with correct maintenance and re coating after every 20 years, they can last the life of the building. This means that by opting for foam roofs, you save a lot because there will be no need to re-roof your building from time to time. According to various studies, foam roofing can produce energy savings of nearly 30% or more than other roofing materials.
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Flexibility and Seamless
As stated, foam roofing is applied on the roof’s surface as a liquid, meaning that it forms a seamless, continuous and protective layer around roof penetrations such as vents, edges and pipes. This makes them a perfect choice for commercial buildings that need many perforations. Foam roofing is self-flashing so it will save you the cost of flashing materials.
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Environmentally Friendly
If you are cautious about the environment you live in, foam roofs will be a perfect choice for you. Their upkeep is minimal, meaning that you’ll have less waste and repair. Most importantly, they reflect heat, especially when properly coated, which reduces heat trapped in urban areas. As a rule of thumb, foam roofs are manufactured on the roof surface and if you want to have more value for your money, only hire a qualified and experienced installation contractor that will guarantee material integrity.
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Lightweight
Many people believe that the best roofing materials should be heavy. However, this is not always the case because foam roofs are estimated to be one-eighth the weight of other roofing materials and they are top-notch. Their lightweight property makes them easy and flexible to install.
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Durability
Being chemically inert, foam roofing materials are durable. In addition, they are resistant to storm damage and weather, which means that you’ll live for many years without the idea of re-roofing crossing your mind. Most importantly, they require minimal repair and maintenance and depending on your surroundings, and inspection can be done once every five years.
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Long-Term Service and Savings
A roof is very important as it determines the condition your building will be and when making a purchase, ensure it has a roof warranty.
In a nutshell, when you use SPF in a roofing project, it will provide:
- Structural properties
- Air barrier
- Added insulation
- Sustainability
- Renew ability
- Lightweight
- Waterproof roofing membrane
- Affordability
Bottom Line
So, what is a foam roof? Commonly referred to as sprayed polyurethane foam (SPF), it is a foam plastic that has been insulated with spray. It is one of the most lightweight roofing materials available, and offers remarkable waterproof and anti-leakage qualities. Roofing specialists at Durafoam Roofing offer services for both residential and commercial buildings for when it comes to your foam roofing needs.
