How To Remove Spray Foam Insulation
Knowing how to remove spray foam insulation is not something that most people have to worry about.
And for good reasons! The only time anybody would need to remove spray foam insulation? During a remodel or prior to the application of new and different insulation materials.
In either case, this type of work is best left to professionals. We recommend calling the industry veterans at Spray-On Foam & Coatings.
Since 1973, we’ve been providing exemplary customer service and exacting insulation installations. Our spray foam applications also include seismic rehabilitation, sound control, specialty coatings, and more.
Give us a call today, and let’s get started on a conversation about how best to insulate your commercial space.
Removing Spray Foam Insulation
We should state from the outset that removing spray foam insulation is no easy task. The properties that make spray foam such an excellent insulation material also make it difficult to remove. We’re talking here about its impermeability, expandability, and its lifetime of sturdy dependability.
Spray foam insulation expands upon installation, forming tight seals, eliminating all voids and creating an impenetrable barrier. When we install this type of insulation, we do so only under rigorously controlled conditions. Safety is our highest priority. We set up air ventilation systems and wear protective clothing and masks during installation.
Every gotten dried foam on your clothing? Those who have know-how difficult if not impossible it is to separate it from the fibers. That’s a microcosm of the task ahead for anybody who decides to remove spray-foam insulation.
Thus, we can’t stress this enough. You should consult with the professionals at Spray-On Foam & Coatings before embarking on a project of this type.
Steps To Remove Spray Foam Insulation
For the curious among you, we provide the following overview of the spray foam removal process. This is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a guide or a how-to.
A final note of caution. Make sure there are no electrical wires, plumbing, or pipes beneath the insulation you are prepared to remove.
Safety first, safety last, and safety at all times in between!
- Get dressed in a mask and protective gear.
- Cut insulation with a knife or any tool which does the trick, including a saw, a crowbar, or a claw hammer.
- Pull the insulation away from the spaces where it was installed.
- Repeat Nos. 2 and 3 until the bulk of the insulation has been torn away.
- Scrape away any remaining insulation residue with a flathead screwdriver, paint scraper, or similar tool.
- Use lacquer thinner to remove remnants that you’re unable to ply or scrape away.
Don’t use water on the foam. This will actually cause it to cure and become harder.
Don’t use heat on the insulation in an attempt to melt or burn it away. This is extremely dangerous.
