Are you a building owner who wants to repair the leak in your roof? Are you having difficulty reviewing the different commercial roofing systems? You might have encountered foam roofs as a good way to stop the leak.
Spray foam is a renewable type of roof that can last for years. However, after a few years, your roof might look like a swamp if it was installed with off-ratio spray foam. In this article, we’re going to discuss what off-ratio spray foams are and why you should not use them.
What is off-ratio spray foam?
Spray polyurethane foam is a product formed by a combination of polyol resin and isocyanate. To form a perfect spray foam, you need a perfect one-to-one (1:1) ratio of the polyol resin and isocyanate. However, if you do not follow the 1:1 ratio, it will result in off-ratio spray foam.
Off-ratio foam can either be resin-heavy or iso-heavy. A resin-heavy spray foam looks spongy, while iso-heavy spray foams tend to be more brittle and crunchier. Brittle foams can crack quite easily.
Whether resin-heavy or iso-heavy, the water will seep through the roofing system. However, after 2-3 years, the water will pass through the foam. Water might enter your roof deck and eventually leak into the interior of your building.
If the materials used were correct and the roof was properly installed, it won’t cause a problem even after years. Spray foam is a closed cell, so water will not pass through it.
How can an off-ratio foam affect your business?
A good building should last more than 20 years before any major repairs become necessary. If you constructed the structure yourself, this is imperative. It will also be a couple of years before you make a return on your investment. Serious repairs will only hurt your ROI. You need to invest in high-quality materials and methods.
While you might set aside some of your budget for the maintenance and upkeep of your building, using off-ratio spray foam will eat through that budget quickly with all the repairs you’ll have to make. Even with a warranty, it is ill-advised as only unscrupulous contractors will use off-ratio spray foam. What is stopping them from escaping when you call them about your broken roof?
That’s why it’s important to invest in a great spray foam roofing contractor. Only the professionals will give you the best service. These are the characteristics of good contractors:
- They have certifications from the SPFA.
- They have been in the business for decades.
- They have many clients who have shared positive reviews.
Final Thoughts
Off-ratio spray foam is not the best option for your roof. It is cheap, but you’ll have to spend more money when you need to replace it after a few years. Use a spray foam that will last for years. You must also hire a good spray foam roofing contractor with proven experience in the field and the appropriate certifications.
Are you looking for spray foam contractors? American Foam Experts is the leading family-owned spray polyurethane foam roofer specializing in SPF applications for your home and business. We can lower your energy costs year-round. Contact us now!