How to choose polyurethane foam for exterior use. Choosing the best polyurethane foam. Rating of polyurethane foams

The range of applications of polyurethane foam is quite wide: it is used to fill seams and voids during construction or repairs. You can also glue foam boards or laminate onto it. Creative people turn this product into real masterpieces. A review of this segment of the building materials market allows us to identify the best polyurethane foams that have heat and sound insulation qualities, are airtight and resistant to temperature changes.

The choice of polyurethane foam depends primarily on the conditions in which it will be sprayed and used. A universal option is suitable for household use. For fire hazardous premises, all materials used, including insulation, must be fire resistant. And to install the frame in the cold, you need to decide which winter foam for windows is best and check its operating temperature range.

When reviewing the offers of construction stores, the characteristics of the finished mass, user reviews, and the opinions of professionals were studied. When comparing materials and adding them to the TOP of the best, the following criteria were taken into account:

• Productivity and output volume;
• Ease of application;
• Operating temperature range;
• Quality of heat and sound insulation properties;
• Secondary expansion rate;
• Uniformity and density of texture;
• Value for money;
• Possibility to buy in popular stores;
• Purchasing level.

For a household user, the presence of an applicator is also important, but for professionals, the ability to use a cylinder with a gun will be more important.

The best universal mounting foams

At home, in most cases, universal polyurethane foam is used, which can be applied to the surface both indoors and outdoors. To include products in the TOP, more than a dozen proposals were studied and the 4 best representatives of this segment were identified.

Macroflex from the Estonian manufacturer Henkel is one of the best all-season polyurethane foams with a one-component composition based on polyurethane foam. It combines an affordable price and good product properties, which is why it is loved by professional builders. The output is up to 65 liters of material. The hardening period is 24 hours, during which time the mass turns into a durable filler that is resistant to mechanical damage.

The cylinder is equipped with a temperature indicator showing whether the material can be applied under given conditions or not. In addition to the standard 750 ml bottle, the manufacturer offers 300 or 500 ml options for sealing small local cracks. Macroflex is sold complete with an applicator tube.

Advantages:

• Easy application;
• Bonds to most surfaces;
• Fills the cavity evenly;
• Non-toxic;
• Good insulating properties.

Flaws:

• Afraid of sunlight;
• The entire container must be used immediately.

The final output volume of the material depends on the conditions and technique of its application. Low humidity will not allow it to fully expand, and the incorrect position of the cylinder will reduce its capacity.

Reviews about TechnoNIKOL polyurethane foam are mostly positive. It was developed by a Russian manufacturer for household use in various weather conditions. The temperature range that can be maintained is wide – from -10 to +35 degrees. The material is sold in 800 ml cylinders, the yield of which reaches 60 liters of finished insulating material. The tack time is only 15 minutes, and the full polymerization time is 24 hours. The mass hardens under the influence of moisture.

Advantages:

• High penetrating ability;
• Uniform distribution without jerking;
• Dense homogeneous texture after drying;
• Manufacturer's reputation.

Flaws:

• May bubble at low temperatures.

The container must be stored exclusively vertically, otherwise the composition loses some of its properties.

The best universal polyurethane foam for a pistol from those presented in this rating. The one-part formula expands well when applied to a surface. It is intended for professional use. High performance (65 liters from a 750 ml bottle) is achieved thanks to the innovative formula.

The composition has a high level of adhesion to concrete, brick, glass, plaster, and wooden surfaces. The foam does not contain CFCs and HCFCs, making it environmentally friendly.

Advantages:

• Economical consumption;
• Low secondary expansion;
• Does not have a pungent odor;
• High degree of sound and thermal insulation.

Flaws:

• The price is above average.

Titan O2 is loved by professional builders because it speeds up the work process. Due to rapid drying, it can be cut off within 25 minutes after application.

Professional polyurethane foam, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. It has low expansion and is suitable for thin joints where accuracy of application is especially important.

Soudal has high adhesion not only to brick or concrete, but also to metal or glazed surfaces. The tip is included, so the cylinder can be used not only with a construction gun.

Advantages:

• Size stability;
• Homogeneous texture;
• Ease of application;
• Complete protective gloves.

Flaws:

• Can't be washed.

Users note in reviews that they come across defective cylinders with a poorly functioning valve.

The best fire-resistant polyurethane foams

Fire-resistant qualities are especially important when applied in rooms with high temperature conditions: baths, factories, restaurants, nightclubs and other entertainment venues. Fire retardants are added to their composition, giving non-flammable properties to the entire composition. After analyzing this market segment, 3 leaders were identified that professionals prefer to buy.

A renowned manufacturer of fire retardant coatings of excellent quality. Branded fire-resistant polyurethane foam can contain fire in the installation joint for up to 4 hours and prevents the spread of smoke and toxic gases. The quality of the product is confirmed by a safety certificate.

The mass is sold in 880 ml cylinders, from which 45 liters of finished insulating material are obtained. The universal valve will fit a sprayer or gun. The material can be applied at temperatures from +5 to +35 degrees. The filler can withstand full load, including joint mobility, within 24 hours.

Advantages:

• Promotes good sound insulation;
• Suitable for most building surfaces;
• Loses stickiness within 10 minutes after application;
• The operating temperature limit reaches +130 degrees.

Flaws:

• Destroys under UV rays;
• The price is above average.

Professional installation material with fire-resistant qualities, which can be purchased at an affordable price. It ideally fills seams of any thickness and has a low level of expansion during the hardening and expansion of the material. The aerosol form gives a uniform mass output throughout the use of the entire container.

From a 1 liter cylinder using a gun you can get up to 65 liters of insulating mass, which makes consumption extremely economical. And primary treatment is possible within 35 minutes. The composition formula is all-season.

Advantages:

• Moisture resistance;
• Operating temperature – from -50 to +90 degrees;
• Affordable price;
• Good adhesion to various materials.

Flaws:

• Bubble when applying a layer thicker than 5 cm;
• Short shelf life (9 months).

For best performance, the cylinder should be held strictly vertically, bottom up, and shake it from time to time. In this case, a homogeneous dense material is obtained. In cold weather the yield will be slightly less than in warm weather.

Good foam for the gun, corresponding to the flammability class G1 and GOST. It can resist heating for 4 hours and is suitable for use in rooms with increased fire safety requirements.

An 850 ml cylinder gives up to 65 liters of finished mass. An application applicator is included for convenient one-time use at home. When sprayed, the mass spreads evenly and expands well, making it suitable for filling large voids.

Advantages:

• High-quality results in any weather;
• Cleans well with flushing liquid;
• Durability;
• Hardens quickly.

Flaws:

• High price.

The material has problems with adhesion to polymer coatings. Before application, they must be thoroughly cleaned and the air should not be too dry.

The best winter polyurethane foams

Winter foams are designed for sealing joints at low temperatures, which is important for outdoor construction work in cold weather. In terms of adhesive and insulating properties, they are not inferior to summer materials. We analyzed 10 winter aggregates sold in construction stores and selected the 3 best from them.

Penosil Gold Gun 65 Winter

The best polyurethane foam for winter. Its consumption is economical: from a cylinder with a volume of 875 ml, 65 liters of finished mass are obtained. Product spray temperature is from -18 to +30 degrees. It does not spread when applied either in cold or heat.

The composition has strong adhesion to almost any surface. There is no need to wet the material, since Penosil Gold Gun hardens well at any humidity. All the material comes out of the container, leaving nothing behind in the packaging.

Advantages:

• Fast hardening;
• Moderate secondary expansion (15%);
• Uniform structure;
• Eco-friendly composition;
• Low cost.

Flaws:

• Need a gun.

When applying the mixture in the cold, you need to take into account that the container itself must be warm.

Irfix STD Winter

Inexpensive winter polyurethane foam with application temperatures from -10 to +30. It has adhesion to all common building materials. A 750 ml cylinder produces 60 liters of finished filler. Complete hardening of the mass occurs in just 6-16 hours, depending on weather conditions. After which it becomes resistant to mechanical damage and temperature changes.

Advantages:

• Complete applicator;
• Aging resistance;
• Uniform expansion;
• Low price;
• Easy to paint.

Flaws:

• Afraid of sunlight.

Before use at sub-zero temperatures, the cylinder must be kept for 12 hours at a temperature of +20-25 degrees. It is recommended to apply the mixture from bottom to top, filling no more than 40% of the seam with it.

Makroflex winter Pro

The most popular option for winter. It can be applied to almost any surface at temperatures down to -10 degrees. As the mass expands, it exerts low pressure on the surrounding structure, which makes it possible to work with fragile materials such as drywall. The mass is sold in 750 ml cylinders with a yield of up to 65 liters.

Advantages:

• Extended shelf life;
• Manufacturer's reputation;
• Dries quickly;
• Suitable for filling large spaces;
• Excellent insulating properties.

Flaws:

• High price.

The kit does not include an application tube; the can is intended only for use with a construction gun.

Which polyurethane foam is better to buy?

To decide which polyurethane foam is better, you need to understand on what surface and under what conditions it will be applied. When working with fragile structures, you need to pay attention to the level of secondary expansion, and when spraying in cold weather, you need to make sure that the material has a wide operating temperature range.

Among the universal joint fillers, the leaders are:

• Macroflex is the best all-season foam at an affordable price. The complete applicator tube, a large selection of cylinder volumes and good properties of the mass make it popular among builders and non-professionals who do repairs themselves;
• TechnoNIKOL No. 800 Master is the cheapest option presented in the rating. It is good at different temperature conditions and is not inferior in quality to more expensive analogues;
• Titan O2 is a gun foam with a high level of performance. A 750 ml cylinder produces 65 liters of finished mass;
• Soudal is the best filler for thin joints or areas where careful application is required.

For commercial properties, fire-resistant materials must be used. Polyurethane foam is no exception. Among the fire-resistant fillers, the best are:

• Nullifire is an insulating filler that inhibits the spread of smoke and fire for 4 hours at the joint;
• Rush Firestop Flex 65 is suitable for filling joints of any size, differs from other fire-resistant options in its low price;
• Remontix PRO 65 is the best option for a pistol for professional use in premises with increased fire safety requirements.

The TOP polyurethane foams for winter include:

• Penosil Gold Gun 65 – material with the lowest spray temperature up to -18 degrees without loss of mass quality;
• Irfix STD is the fastest hardening compound. Complete hardening occurs in just 6-16 hours;
• Makroflex winter Pro is the best option for working at low temperatures. High performance, uniform application and expansion speak in favor of its purchase.

Having studied the TOP 10, every builder or non-professional will understand the advantages and disadvantages of insulating materials from different manufacturers and will be able to choose the appropriate option for themselves among universal, fire-resistant or winter polyurethane foams.

Many novice craftsmen who want to “reglaze” on their own are interested in which polyurethane foam for windows is better. There is a universal answer to this question - the one that best suits your requirements and conditions of use is better.

Naturally, for not the most experienced master, such an answer is not enough, so below I will break down this, without exaggeration, wonderful material “piece by piece” and tell you how to choose it and what you need to keep in mind when using it.

Choosing material

Basic properties

So, everyone who plans to install windows knows that polyurethane foam is used primarily to seal the joint between the window and the building envelope. And before we figure out which polyurethane foam is best for PVC windows, we must understand what this material is.

So, we use self-expanding liquid polyurethane as the main sealant. In a pressure cylinder, this substance is in a liquid state, but upon contact with air it hardens quite quickly, while increasing in volume.

The polymerization process is accompanied by the active entrainment of air into the polyurethane mass, due to which the formation of a foam-like structure occurs.

The main properties that allow the use of polyurethane material as a window sealant are as follows:

1. Primary expansion varies, but is always quite impressive. The volume of foam increases several times, which allows filling cavities without much effort on our part. Primary is called an increase in volume before the polymerization of the foam begins.

1. Secondary expansion – varies from 15 to 120% for different brands. It begins after the completion of primary polymerization and continues until complete hardening. The lower this indicator, the more controlled the material behaves, so craftsmen try to minimize secondary expansion as much as possible.

If we neglect this property and blow out a lot at once, then at best we will get deformation of the plastic window under pressure. At worst, a crack in the corner seam or a fastener torn out by the roots.

1. Thermal conductivity due to the large volume of entrained air is quite low, which provides the foam with good thermal insulation properties. In principle, if not for the price, it could be used as a universal insulation material. But - expensive!
2. Adhesion is the ability to stick to materials. Liquid polyurethane has very high adhesion, thanks to which it sticks perfectly to the vast majority of openings - as long as they are more or less clean. Exceptions are polypropylene, polyethylene, Teflon. Well, oil stains on the surface of a brick, concrete or polymer profile seriously reduce adhesion.

1. Viscosity is the state of liquid polyurethane immediately upon exiting the container. Reduced viscosity (foam literally flows) indicates either quality problems or that you are installing windows at temperatures above 350C.

It is these properties that make it possible to use polyurethane foam as a material that fills all the voids between the window structure and the opening.

Types of foam

The compositions used for installing PVC windows can be of different types. Classification usually relies on several factors, so here we will look at the most important aspects.

The most convenient way to do this is using a table:

What to choose?

So, we’ve figured out the basic parameters, now let’s decide what kind of foam to use during installation?

1. The first thing we pay attention to is the temperature regime. For spring and autumn we take all-season foam, for winter - winter foam, for the warm season - summer foam (it is the cheapest). There is no point in saving money here, since the use of unsuitable material negatively affects the quality and durability of the assembly seam.

1. The next parameter is expiration date. For most brands it is 18 months from the date of manufacture, and this value should not be neglected. Expired foam loses its performance properties unpredictably: its adhesion may deteriorate, or its expansion coefficient may decrease, or all together.
2. Next we calculate the volume. As a rule, foam is supplied in cylinders of 700 - 750 ml, and it can be very difficult to calculate how much foam is used for one window. I recommend making calculations based on the average consumption per linear meter: for a panel house it is 300 ml, for brick – 400-450 ml, for “Stalin” – 500 ml or more. When installing window sills, about 300 ml/m.m. is consumed.

1. There is one more nuance in calculating the volume of foam - the volume of material output indicated on the cylinder. So, when calculating how much foam we need, we should reduce the “normative” value of the output volume promised by the manufacturer by about 30%. The thing is that these indicators are calculated for ideal conditions, which, of course, cannot be achieved in practice. So an extra cylinder definitely won’t hurt, especially since this material is useful in the household and in addition to installing windows .
2. As for foam manufacturers, it is difficult to give unambiguous advice. Most often, the price tag helps decide which foam is best from those presented on the counter: the higher it is, the more preferable this option is. But, on the other hand, there are good brands in the budget segment. I usually work with Soudal Gun, Tytan Professional, Makroflex, Bau Master - they have never let me down.

If you plan to use the foam yourself, you will need a special gun to apply it. The cheapest disposable model (the plastic body quickly breaks down) will cost about 250–300 rubles, and a good and fairly durable one (like STAYER FoaMax) will cost 700–800.

Professional models costing from 1,300 rubles (such as KRAFTOOL PANTER) will be needed by those who install windows on an ongoing basis - but, on the other hand, such a master himself knows which tool to select!

Using foam correctly

Where is it used?

Everything is more or less clear with the choice of material, now let's look at other questions: how to apply the composition, how to cover the foam after installing plastic windows, how to clean plastic windows from polyurethane foam, etc.

Let's start with a description of the scope:

1. The main task that polyurethane self-expanding foam solves is filling the gap between the window structure and the edge of the window opening. In this case, the layer of polymerized material plays the role of a sealant and heat insulator, retaining a significant part of the heat indoors.
2. In addition to sealing, the foam (partially) serves as a fastener. Due to its high adhesion, it ensures adhesion to both surfaces, and due to expansion, it wedges in the gap, fixing both parts.
3. In addition to these functions, when blown under a window sill board, foam plays the role of support and partial shock absorber. Yes, polymerized polyurethane is not elastic, but at the same time it bends a little under significant force, which protects the window sill from damage under load.

1. In addition to thermal insulation, the porous structure also provides sound insulation. And if when sealing seams this is, so to speak, a “side” result, then when installing drip linings made of galvanized metal, a thin “sausage” of foam applied under the drip strip can seriously reduce the volume of falling drops or the rattling of the part in a strong wind.

To be fair, this effect can be achieved not only with foam. A thin strip of PSUL or foam rubber dampens sound volume just as well. If you don’t have anything like this at hand, just glue two old dish sponges under the tide: the result is similar.

A little material under the tide - and it will be much quieter!

Application for effective sealing

So, our task is now very clearly defined: we need to fill the gap between the frame and the opening with foam. You need to act according to this scheme:

1. After installing the structure, we clean the opening from dust, which inevitably forms during the installation of fasteners. The more dust, the lower the adhesion of polyurethane to the base.
2. To reduce the consumption of polyurethane foam when installing windows, foam cuttings can be placed in the wide gap. Of course, this will slightly reduce the strength of the junction unit. But still, foam is not a fastening element, so the use of foam padding can be allowed.

1. We moisten the installation gap with a spray bottle, after which we install the foam bottle on the gun, blow through the nozzle until a uniform release of material appears and begin filling.

To increase the output volume, shake the container thoroughly. This is also facilitated by warming up the container, especially if installation is carried out in the cold: half an hour in a bucket of warm water - approximately + 20-25% of the usable volume.

1. We apply the foam in small portions, trying to fill the cavity without air pockets or large gaps. It is undesirable to blow out a lot of polyurethane at once - due to secondary expansion, which for cheap brands can reach 100% in volume or more, there is a risk of deforming the frame or bending the window sill.
2. The limiting factor in this case is moisture - this is why we wet the assembly seam. When in contact with water, polyurethane almost stops expanding, due to which the foam becomes denser, forming a homogeneous layer with small pores - higher mechanical strength, better heat and sound insulation.

1. Having applied a layer about 50 mm thick, we moisten the foam from a spray bottle, stopping its expansion in the transverse direction. After one and a half to two minutes, apply the next layer, and so on until the opening is completely filled.
2. After all the cavities are blown out, leave the foam alone until complete polymerization. For different brands of composition, this time period ranges from 6 to 12 hours. Until the foam completely polymerizes, it is advisable not to open the window or subject it to other operational loads - this can lead to creasing of the partially cured polyurethane and a violation of the seal.

1. After 6 - 9 hours, excess foam must be trimmed off. This can be done easily using any sharp and thin knife.

The issue of leveling the window sill is especially worth noting. If the window sill board rests on a layer of foam more than 30 mm thick, then it is advisable to lay oppression on top to prevent secondary expansion and deformation of the plastic. If the foam layer is smaller, or the length of the window sill is less than a meter, then you can do without a load.

What kind of pressure do we usually use? - that's right, three- or five-liter bottles of water. In this case, water in a glass container often acts as a huge lens, so if you don’t want to burn through the new window sill, either place books on top or cover the jars with newspapers.

Polymer foam care

The “fun” begins after application and polymerization. Polyurethane, hardened in air, becomes quite brittle, and when exposed to UV rays it begins to deteriorate, so the question of whether it is necessary to process the cut foam does not even arise. It is necessary, and below I will tell you exactly how:

1. First, let's figure out how to cover the mounting foam on the outside of the window. The simplest solution would be to install flashings - a metal plate painted in the color of the profile. The strip is attached to the frame and to the load-bearing surface, and tightly covers the mounting seam.
2. Another answer to the question of how to seal the foam on the outside is a special tape. Vapor permeability is important for exterior finishing, so polyurethane must be sealed with waterproofing superdiffusion tapes: they protect against precipitation, but do not interfere with the natural ventilation of the installation joint.

If before installation we install a pre-compressed sealing tape (PSUL) on the frame, then after its expansion the installation gap with foam will be closed, and we will not have to look for something to cover the polyurethane with.

1. Finally, the simplest method of protection is painting/plastering. Naturally, both and the plaster mixture must be vapor permeable.

1. It is necessary to decide how to cover the foam indoors at the design stage: it can be plaster, drywall, plastic, etc. Here, as in external work, the use of mounting tapes is encouraged: special materials for internal use can reliably protect the sealing circuit from moisture and destruction.
2. When choosing tapes to protect the foam, you should remember that the instructions suggest using different tapes for dry (cladding) and wet (painting, plastering) finishing.

Foam got into the wrong place - what to do?

Finally, there is one more question that deserves our attention - how to wash polyurethane foam from plastic windows, hands, clothes and other objects. No matter how hard we try, and no matter how carefully we work, polyurethane will appear almost everywhere.

When troubleshooting problems, I advise you to use the information from the table below:

In general, special formulations (wipes or sprays) designed specifically for working with polyurethane help best. But they are expensive, so it’s unlikely that anyone will buy such material without professionally installing windows.

Moral: in order not to look for how to wipe foam from a plastic window or other surfaces, you need to be extremely careful. Therefore, until the installation of the structure is completed, you should not remove the protective film from the windows, and the floor and other surfaces should be covered with polyethylene. Well, the clothes should be work clothes: a) you don’t mind them and b) they protect the skin from contact with adhesive material.

Conclusion

What foam to use for the job, how to apply the composition correctly, how to seal the foam after installing plastic windows - I tried to give as detailed answers to all these questions as possible. Well, if you need additional information, I recommend that you study the video materials on the resource pages, as well as ask questions in the comments to the article and on the forum.

It’s still impossible to describe all situations, so I will be ready to help you with the most specific advice!

Fill a seam, a crack, install a window or door block, glue insulation - for all these works and a dozen others, polyurethane foam is used. If you go to any hardware store, you will see at least a dozen items. And in large or specialized ones there can be hundreds. Which one should you choose? Which polyurethane foam is better? Depends on conditions, tasks and requirements.

What is polyurethane foam and how is it formed?

Polyurethane foam is a foamed polymer that quickly hardens (polymerizes) in air. Release form: metal cylinders of various volumes. The cylinder contains a prepolymer in a liquid state and a propellant gas. Substances called propellant gases are characterized by having a low boiling point. High pressure is created in the cylinder. When the outlet valve opens, the compound is pushed into an area of ​​lower pressure. When released, the propellant gas boils, forming a large number of air bubbles and inflating the foam.

The choice of polyurethane foam depends on the conditions and tasks

Next, in air, the resulting foam polymerizes - it becomes rigid and hard. The curing process requires water, so it is recommended to wet the surfaces before application. Moisture is also taken from the air. Since there is little moisture in frosty air, there are certain compositions for such conditions.

Properties

Do not confuse polyurethane foam with glue. By the way, there is glue in similar containers that also foams. But there is a completely different composition and nothing can be securely glued to the mounting foam. It can support/hold in a certain position, but none has the strength of an adhesive connection. So don't be confused. This is not its area of ​​application.

How to understand which polyurethane foam is better? You need to know its properties

To correctly understand where polyurethane foam can be used, you need to know about its properties. They are very good:

• Mounting property. This is tying, connecting, attaching (not gluing) parts of a structure.
• Soundproofing. Polyurethane foam cannot be called soundproofing, but it reduces the noise level.
• Thermal insulation. Due to the large amount of air enclosed in thin polymer bubbles, thermal conductivity is reduced.
• Good adhesion to almost all building materials. Cannot be used only with silicone, rubber, and some also with polyethylene.

The main use of construction foam is installation. It’s not for nothing that it’s called polyurethane foam. But it is also not bad as insulation and sound insulation. Not perfect, but not bad. Filling seams, cracks, sealing/thermal insulation of communication inputs - this is its area of ​​application. In this it is difficult for her to find competitors. How were such gaps filled in the past? They hammered it with rags and covered it with mortar. Foam in this regard is much more convenient and has better properties.

Important Features

Any type of polyurethane foam has two important characteristics - primary and secondary expansion. Primary expansion is how much the mass increases in volume before the end of polymerization. There are foams with both high primary expansion and low ones. Which polyurethane foam is better - with large or small expansion? It’s impossible to say for sure. They are used in different cases. Low expansion foam is good for filling small cavities, as well as for layer-by-layer filling of deep seams, when installing EPS. Large expansion is more beneficial when filling cavities, using as sound insulation, thermal insulation.

Specifically speaking, for doors, it is better to take foam with low expansion. Moreover, both primary and secondary. Unfortunately, this is a professional foam, so you will also need a gun.

The left picture is an illustration of a large secondary expansion. Do you see how the primary frame has been torn apart? Well, the difference between foams is in density and “fluidity”

Secondary expansion is an increase in foam volume after completion of the polymerization process. Which polyurethane foam is better for this feature? Definitely the one with the smaller secondary expansion. Why? Because this process is difficult to predict. And the possible consequences are serious - deformation of flexible or moving parts. For example, window frames or door frames may buckle if the foam expands too much. And even the spacers that are installed do not always help.

Why then do we need construction foam with high secondary expansion? It has its own area of ​​application - filling cavities and cracks in rigid and stable materials and structures. For example, in concrete, as a filler with thermal insulating properties between the wall and the brick finish. Foam with higher secondary expansion is cheaper. For large volumes this is important.

Foam output

Another thing you need to pay attention to is the foam output. This is the volume that can come out of the cylinder. It is indicated in liters. Typically, the larger the cylinder, the greater the yield. But not always. With the same cylinder size, the difference in output can be about 20-30%. It can be determined by mass. The heavier the cylinder (weight indicated), the greater the yield will be.

As you can see, identical-looking cylinders contain different amounts of foam

What else is worth knowing is that the actual yield of polyurethane foam is usually less than declared (this is more often the case with household types). To ensure the required volume, it is necessary to accurately select the proportions of prepolymer and filler gas. And not all brands can boast of this. Here is a list of those who consistently produce the declared volumes:

• Soudal (Soudal) professional lines (not household).
• Penosil (Penosil) Gold (Gold) and Premium (Premium).
• Moment Installation (very inexpensive and widespread).
• Wellfoam (WellFom).
• Hilti (Hilti).
• Kim Tec (Kim Tek).
• Den Braven (Den Braven).
• Illbruck (Illbrook).
• Tytan (Titanium) (some batches either do not work at all or produce less than half of what was declared).

There may be other good brands of construction foam. But these are the ones that, according to builders, very rarely fail. When purchasing, look at production date. After a year, the valve begins to poison, the filler gas comes out, and the output, accordingly, decreases.

In order for good foam to retain its properties, it must be stored correctly.

Note! You need to work with polyurethane foam, which is at room temperature. In cold weather, you need to pre-warm it. Even winter or all-season.

Types and applications

All cylinders with polyurethane foam can be divided by area of ​​application: household and professional. They are also different in appearance. Professional ones are made for a special pistol. It won't be possible to work without it. Household ones have a push valve (as in aerosols) and a long thin tube. Of course, these are not all the differences. There is a difference in properties:

• Curing speed. Professional ones harden faster. Some brands become hard after 30 minutes. “Normal polymerization time” is 24 hours. This is how long it is recommended to wait after applying the foam before continuing work.
• Amount of secondary expansion. For professional ones it is about 30-50% of the primary volume, for household ones it can be 130-250%.
• Dimensions of cavities. Foam consisting of small bubbles is considered good. This is what distinguishes professional ones, although some household ones also have few large cavities. But they are not cheap either.

Which polyurethane foam is better, we decide by characteristics

Of the entire list, the most unpleasant is the large secondary expansion. Why is this bad? Because when foaming windows and door frames, the greatly increasing foam can bend the wood or profiles. Well, because it grows too actively, it is difficult to dose, which leads to large overspending. So the difference in price turns out to be quite insignificant. If it remains at all.

When and where to use these types of polyurethane foam? Household foam is also suitable for filling cavities and holes in rigid structures. For example, Boxer, Ultima, Cosmoflex, Wellfom, Storehouse. When installing doors and windows, it is better to work with a professional. These are Ilbrook, Penosil, Soudal, Titan.

Types by season

Polyurethane foam is also divided according to the temperature conditions of use. There are the following types:

• Summer. Use at temperatures above zero, but not lower than +5°C.
• Winter. It can be used in frosts down to -18°C.
• All-season. Its stated range is from -10°C to +35°C, but it is optimal to use it somewhere in the region from +10°C to zero. At lower temperatures, winter is better, at higher levels, summer is better.

Which polyurethane foam is better: which one is suitable for temperature conditions?

In a heated room we use summer foam; if we foam windows in winter, we use winter or all-season foam, depending on the temperature outside. In general, the “specialized” one—summer or winter—performs better. They are adapted to certain conditions, and this is always more reliable than a universal option (all-season).

When working in winter, do not leave the foam in the cold. Bring it into a warm place. If it gets too cold, it will be too fluid and will not hold its shape. In general, we always keep the foam warm. And one more thing - more foam comes out of a warm balloon.

By flammability

Polyurethane foam must also be selected based on flammability. There are three classes:

• flammable - the cylinder is marked B3;
• self-extinguishing (no fire, it does not burn) is marked B2;
• non-flammable (even in fire it retains its properties for a certain period of time) is designated class B1.

Flammable and non-flammable mounting foams. The degree of flammability is indicated by the letter B and numbers from 1 to 3. B1 - non-flammable, B2 - self-extinguishing, B3 - flammable

In wooden and frame buildings, it is best to use non-flammable construction foam. It should also be used in rooms with increased fire safety requirements. In houses there is such a room - . Every serious manufacturer has fireproof/non-flammable polyurethane foam. You need to watch it in a professional line. For example, Tytan B1, Soudal FR, Den Braven (Den Braven), Kim-Tec (Kim Tek).

There are also two-component polyurethane foams. But they harden very quickly, so they are used by professionals, and even then not all. You need skill to work, but two-component foam costs a lot.

Special types

There are some types of work that require special properties.

The brands listed are far from the only ones. There are others too. Look at serious manufacturers of construction chemicals, read the characteristics, look for reviews. We are already accustomed to the fact that the stated characteristics do not always coincide with reality.

Guns for professional polyurethane foam

If you decide to use professional polyurethane foam, you will need a gun for it. There is a wide range of prices here. But for one-time use, you can take an inexpensive one. The price does not affect the amount of foam. It’s just that the more expensive ones better control the intensity of foam output and deliver it over a greater distance.

Professional polyurethane foam requires a special gun

The ability to adjust the feed intensity is available in any, but the level of control is different. After use, if the cylinder is not empty, it can remain in the gun for 2 weeks or a month. During this period, you can simply continue working. But a “loaded” pistol must be stored in a warm room, not in direct sunlight.

When replacing the cylinder, if the foam flows normally, no additional manipulations are needed. If the foam stops coming out and the container is not yet empty, the nozzle may be clogged. Then the nozzle can be washed. If the liquid comes out without problems, then the problem is in the cylinder. Usually the propellant runs out prematurely, but the copolymer can also run out. After finishing the work, the cylinder is removed, the gun (nozzle) is washed with a solvent (spray foam cleaner). No other manipulations are required.

Although polyurethane foam appeared on the construction market relatively recently, it has already gained a strong position and popularity among buyers. Why is she so appreciated? Firstly, it is sealed, works as a soundproofing material and does not allow water to pass through. Secondly, polyurethane foam is easy to use. And thirdly, it penetrates into the most inaccessible places, reliably filling small cracks.

In addition, this material, if installed correctly, lasts for many years, allowing you to postpone the next repair for a long time.

Which polyurethane foam to choose: pay attention to types and properties

The foam cylinders presented on the counter can be divided into two large groups:

• professional
• household

Household polyurethane foam is applied using a special tube. Experts warn: such foam is good only for eliminating some minor defects. It can be used to seal cracks, fill cavities, and so on. But for serious installation work, only professional types of foam are required.

Professional foam should be applied with a special gun. Why is this type of foam better for installation? The reasons are as follows:

• professional foam comes out of the bottle many times faster
• it expands less
• the material dries faster.

For dacha work and as a sealant for some areas, ordinary household polyurethane foam may be suitable. But if you want a high-quality, reliable result, your approach must be serious.

Which polyurethane foam to choose for installing windows and doors

As we have already found out, it is better to use only professional foam for installation. Installation of plastic windows and doors is no exception.

True, you can also use household polyurethane foam, but for entrances it is better to use professional types of sealant.

Professional polyurethane foam reduces the risk of damage to the integrity of the seams, which means the tightness of PVC windows and entrance and interior doors increases. If this is important to you, do not neglect this advice.

When installing windows, it is also important to consider the outside temperature. Polyurethane foam is divided into summer and winter. Summer is designed for temperatures from +5 to +30 degrees. And the winter one can be used in frosts down to -20. It is worth considering that the cylinder itself should not be cooled - according to the instructions, the packaging temperature should not fall below +5.

The same recommendations apply to other types of installation. For example, the answer to the question which polyurethane foam is best for outdoor use is obvious. You should choose only professional cylinders and take into account weather conditions.

Other important characteristics of polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam may differ in composition. It can be single-component or two-component. The second is less common, but has better qualities - it is stored longer, withstands large temperature changes and hardens faster. In addition, it has less secondary expansion. The fact is that the foam expands twice - the first time immediately after application, and the second time within a few hours after hardening.

Another important characteristic is the flammability class. Polyurethane foams are divided into types:

• flammable
• self-extinguishing
• fire resistant

Most types of polyurethane foam belong to the flammable class. They are marked B3. Such foams should only be used in non-residential premises and outdoor structures.

Self-extinguishing foams of class B2 can be used in residential buildings, as they are fireproof.

Absolutely fire-resistant and the safest - foams marked B1. They are not flammable.

Properties worth paying attention to:

• foam volume (usually indicated on the packaging)
• hardening speed
• expansion after release
• porosity
• no shrinkage after hardening.

All these properties affect the speed and quality of work.

Take all these tips into account and get started! Remember about the types of polyurethane foam, its main properties and fire safety classes. Follow the recommendations - and then you will achieve high-quality and reliable results.

In the process of repair and construction work, both beginners and professional repairmen and builders invariably deal with such a type of universal insulating material as polyurethane foam (another name for it is single-component foam).

This type of polyurethane sealant perfectly fills any cracks, voids and cavities, and also has such characteristics as heat and sound insulation, low electrical conductivity, moisture resistance, and fire resistance. Cured polyurethane foam becomes hard, porous and light, but at the same time this substance is often very sensitive to ultraviolet radiation, therefore it turns yellow and collapses when exposed to sunlight.

There are several types of this building composition, differing in the principle of use and in relation to the temperature conditions under which repair work is carried out.

1. Professional foam. It is usually used using a special mounting gun. It is distinguished by the density of its composition, and this sealant has almost no secondary expansion. You should never use professional foam for minor home repairs, since its yield from the container is 3 times higher than that of household foam.
2. Semi-professional. This is a household foam that needs to be used at a time, and does not require a gun, since the can is equipped with a tube. The density of the composition is lower than that of professional foam, and the secondary expansion is greater, so this composition is not suitable for serious work, such as installing windows, window sills and doors.
3. Summer composition. They can work at temperatures from +5 to +35 degrees.
4. Winter foam. Its composition differs from summer; the sealant can be used during severe frosts, as it can withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees.
5. All-season. It combines the characteristics of winter and summer and can be used at temperatures from -10 to +30 degrees.
6. Fireproof. On the cans you can see marks - B1, B2, B3. These are designations for the flammability of a material, where B1 is fireproof, B2 is self-extinguishing, and B3 is a flammable substance. Of course, type B1 is preferable, which has a special fire-fighting composition and retains all its properties at high temperatures.

How to choose polyurethane foam?

When choosing a sealant, you should focus on several basic requirements for foam:

• Elasticity. The higher the quality of the foam, the more elastic it is;
• Shrinkage. In other words, a decrease in foam upon drying, which should be minimal;
• Structure. The composition must be thick and tenacious enough to adhere well to any surface and not run off;
• Frost resistance. The frozen substance should not crumble or crack at low temperatures if construction and repair work is carried out outside the premises;
• Porosity. The foam should not be too porous, otherwise the heat and sound insulation properties of the material will decrease;
• Extension. When the foam leaves the container, as well as during its complete hardening, expansion of the substance occurs, which should be minimal. Otherwise, excessive expansion of the foam may, for example, distort the door frame when installing doors;
• Hardening speed. The speed and productivity of work as a whole depends on this indicator.
• Weight. A cylinder with a high-quality undiluted composition should have a mass of approximately 910 grams.

Rating of polyurethane foams

There is a wide variety of types of sealants from different manufacturing companies, but in fact there are not so many compositions that have firmly won positive reviews and popularity among users. Unfortunately, very often there are low-quality compounds that not only fail to cope with their main responsibilities, but are also hazardous to health, as they contain harmful toxins. That is why it is very important to make the right choice, guaranteeing quality repairs without harm to health.

Moment Installation

A very popular company whose polyurethane foam comes in professional and household grades, as well as all-season foam - used at all temperatures. It copes well with its main function - filling voids and sealing seams. Suitable for finishing work. The average cost is 320 rubles.

polyurethane foam Moment Installation

Advantages:

• the composition is dense and homogeneous;
• adheres well to various types of surfaces;
• economical consumption;
• can be used for both internal and external repair work.

Flaws:

• strong secondary expansion;
• low-quality foam is often found;
• not suitable for thermal insulation;
• fragility, darkens and collapses over time.

Another popular manufacturer whose products are highly economical. The polyurethane foam from this company is most often all-season, has good adhesion to building materials, and is also moisture resistant. The composition of the sealant is characterized by homogeneity of mass and shows minimal secondary expansion. Polyurethane foam of this brand is suitable for installation of windows and doors, for plumbing repairs, as well as for ordinary sealing of seams and creating sound insulation. The cylinder is convenient because it can be used together with a special gun. The average cost is 200 rubles (for a cylinder with a volume of 0.75 l).

Makroflex polyurethane foam

Advantages:

• good heat and noise insulation;
• the composition is non-toxic;
• long service life;
• fire resistance;
• availability.

Flaws:

• defective products are common;
• when drying, severe shrinkage occurs;
• sensitive to direct sunlight.

The polyurethane foam of this company is gaining popularity due to its quality characteristics and good properties. There are three types - summer, winter (maximum operating temperature -20 degrees) and, produced separately, fire-resistant. Moreover, the composition of the sealant does not contain toxic substances and does not have a pungent odor. The structure of the material is very dense, characterized by a minimal number of pores, due to which shrinkage does not occur after the sealant dries. It dries quickly and, most importantly, evenly. Often used for professional window installation. The average cost of this polyurethane foam is 350 rubles.

Soudal polyurethane foam

Advantages:

• high quality;
• ability to work at low temperatures;
• high foam yield;
• good waterproofing performance;
• shows weak secondary expansion;
• adheres well to various types of surfaces.

Flaws:

• does not tolerate sun exposure well (it is necessary to cover the hardened foam with paint to protect it from ultraviolet radiation, otherwise it will darken and crack over time).

MAXFORTE SoundFlex

Our rating includes the new generation polyurethane foam MAXFORTE SoundFlex, which is designed specifically for soundproofing window and door installation joints, elastic filling of expansion joints in building structures, cracks and voids. It has a high density and low expansion. SoundFlex foam has an increased level of elasticity and the ability to stretch and restore its original shape after compression. The product provides a significant reduction in the vibration load between building structures and becomes a damping layer that dampens vibrations. Average price 590 rub.

Soundproofing foam Maxforte SoundFlex

Advantages:

• The foam takes its original shape at any degree of compression (up to 75%);
• Increased elasticity without damaging the structure;
• High product density;
• Polyurethane foam with a very high degree of adhesion to building materials such as concrete, wood, metal and artificial surfaces;
• First-class vibroacoustic properties: vibration reduction up to 90%;
• Application temperature from -10°C to +35°C;
• Sound insulation of seams 65 dB (10 mm seam).

Flaws:

• Does not tolerate exposure to ultraviolet rays well.

Another brand whose popularity is gaining momentum. The polyurethane foam of this company has a lot of positive reviews, it is chosen by beginners and professionals, and praised by those involved in home repairs and construction. The sealant is distinguished by its density and uniformity of composition, shows a large output volume, and secondary expansion is reduced to the minimum possible. Reliable, suitable for installation of serious structures, perfectly fills cavities, gaps and seams. Since the composition has no odor, working with it is comfortable and pleasant. There is also a special type of this sealant for foam plastic, which is a cross between polyurethane foam and glue. The average cost is 220 rubles.

Penosil polyurethane foam

Advantages:

• reliability and high quality;
• there is no shrinkage when the material hardens;
• large output volume;
• has a white tint;
• Ideal for interior renovation work.

Flaws:

• not very well suited for outdoor work;
• does not tolerate temperatures below -5 degrees;
• in hot weather (from +35 degrees and above), the sealant does not foam and flows over the surface.

A very popular polyurethane foam, which has earned first place in the number of positive reviews from professional repairmen and builders. It is characterized by high efficiency and quality. Available in two types - a winter version, and with increased fire resistance. The structure of the composition is dense, fine, retains volume, shrinkage during hardening does not occur, as well as secondary expansion. Thanks to such useful properties, the sealant performs well when installing windows and doors, repairing heating and water supply systems, and performing thermal insulation work. The average cost is 230 rubles.

Titan O2 polyurethane foam

• the composition of the polyurethane foam does not contain toxic ingredients;
• the sealant has good adhesion to all building materials;
• perfect for interior work;
• Using this polyurethane foam you can install pipes.

Flaws:

• does not tolerate exposure to ultraviolet rays;
• When used for outdoor work, it shows fragility.

Which polyurethane foam did you like?

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19.03.2018

Popular manufacturing companies

Despite the variety of products offered by the market, there are not so many manufacturers of truly high-quality polyurethane foam. Unfortunately, there are many more companies producing low-quality sealants without the use of technological knowledge and equipment that meets modern standards.

High popularity

1. The Soudal company has factories in countries such as Belgium, Slovenia, and Poland. The polyurethane foam from this company has a good structure, yield volume, is durable, does not darken or crack over time.
2. Estonian manufacturer Krimelte (products of the Penosil brand) - good value for money, as well as a variety of sealant options for different occasions.
3. Trademark TITAN – from the manufacturer Orion (Spain, Türkiye, Poland). The products of this company foam well and do not have secondary expansion, but after a year they begin to deteriorate.

Average popularity

1. The moment of installation is inexpensive and high-quality products with low toxicity.
2. Ultima - has an affordable price, is easy to use, but at the same time has a low level of efficiency.
3. Axton - odorless, hardens quickly, but has poor adhesion and high porosity of the structure.

Polyurethane foam with low popularity

1. Makroflex (from the Estonian company Henkel) is inexpensive, hardens quickly, but foam consumption is uneconomical, the composition does not tolerate ultraviolet radiation, and also has a high level of expansion.
2. Greflex does a good job of sealing, but the composition often contains additional undesirable impurities.
3. Boxer is a budget polyurethane foam for home repairs, not suitable for outdoor use.

Areas of application of polyurethane foam

So, the use of polyurethane foam, as already seen, is quite wide, it is:

• insulation and sealing;
• insulation of premises (sealing cavities and cracks with foam);
• sealing cracks in the roof;
• filling cavities around various structures, door frames, window openings, as well as fixing window and door blocks;
• filling voids and cracks at bends or joints, as well as around water and heating pipes;
• gluing insulating, insulating and other materials to walls;
• sound insulation (including treatment of bathtubs to avoid unnecessary noise during use);
• boat repair (sealing holes and cracks).

The modern market offers a wide variety of polyurethane foam, differing in scope and conditions of use. It is best to opt for the highest quality material, which will not only provide comfort during work, but also guarantee reliability and durability.