Spray foam is a popular insulation material due to its ability to expand quickly and fill small gaps. So, how long does spray foam take to dry?
Anthem Insulation & Home has the top spray foam insulation experts in Woodstock, GA, so they have detailed knowledge about the foam insulation curing process and its timeline, which they share below.
How Does Spray Foam Insulation Work?
It helps to know how the insulating material works when determining how long it takes to dry. Spray foam acts as an effective air, sound, and moisture barrier for homes and commercial buildings. It offers outstanding benefits, including increased energy efficiency.
The material works by creating a chemical reaction between two components. When they mix as an insulation installer sprays them onto a surface, the foam immediately forms and expands.
Installers use two forms of spray foam insulation. The first type of spray foam is the closed cell variety, which creates thicker insulation suitable for thermal protection and resistance to water and fire. Open-cell foam is more cost-effective and works better in hard-to-reach spots like attic corners.
How Long Does it Take for Open-Cell and Closed-Cell Spray Foam Insulation to Cure in Woodstock?
So how long does spray foam take to dry?
It generally takes up to an hour for spray foam insulation to dry and loses its sticky texture from remaining moisture. The curing process to harden open-cell spray foam can take anywhere from eight to 24 hours. Since closed-cell spray foam is denser than the other form, it can take about 20 to 24 hours to completely dry and cure, even though it can become tack-free in as little as five minutes.
What Factors Can Speed Up the Curing Process?
Several factors contribute to the drying speed of spray insulation foam. For instance, denser materials will take longer to cure. Other factors include:
- Weather conditions: Extreme air temperatures and humidity will affect the spray’s porosity, strength, and ability to dry. It’s best to install spray foam insulation when temperatures range from 60 to 90 degrees.
- Ventilation: Though the foam will eventually dry, it needs moisture to facilitate the curing process. You can open windows or use fans to improve ventilation as the material dries.
- Amount of spray foam on the surface: Spray foam insulation doesn’t require too many passes from the sprayer because the insulation will expand. The more you apply, the longer it will take to dry.
Turn to Anthem Insulation & Home Today for Quality Foam Insulation Services in Woodstock
Now that you know the answer to “How long does spray foam take to dry?” you can trust the team at Anthem Insulation & Home to expertly install insulation to safeguard your Woodstock, GA, home against air leaks, moisture damage, and pests. They install closed-cell and open-cell spray foam insulation and are specialists in other materials as well, like fiberglass and mineral wool. Contact Anthem Insulation & Home in Woodstock for an appointment for spray foam insulation on your basement walls, attic, and other spaces.