Wall Foam versus Roof Foam: Two Different Worlds

They may not have had all the PPE we have today; however, the early SPF Pioneers learned to understand SPF roofing well in their day. During the 1960’s, 1970’s most SPF projects entailed commercial roofing, refrigeration and piping. In the 1980’s to the present, there was a trend toward interior wall foam. The reason wall foam came on the scene later is because many people didn’t know what SPF was, understand how it could be used and understand its great benefits for energy efficiency. It was also cost prohibitive in the early days for residential use. Alaska was one state that was ahead of the game. They quickly grasped the notion of using SPF to stay warm.   

SPF roofing has made a big come back in recent years. People have come to better understand SPF, its benefits and the cost is more affordable than in years past. Energy conservation efforts have also encouraged more use of SPF as a product of choice. Today, our industry has a lot of interior and residential wall foamers, some of whom do not fully understand SPF roofing. There are a multitude of considerations in foaming roofs, such as substrate conditions, cleaning and prepping, weather conditions, humidity, safety and a whole host of other things to be mindful of. Every roof is different in some way and presents a new set of challenges. Therefore, the wisdom of the early pioneers and long-timers is more vital to our industry than ever before. That’s why it’s important for residential foamers to know the long-timers and obtain the knowledge these roof foamers have gathered over many years. They have much to teach us. Many are still alive and well working within our industry’s professional organizations, as company owners, consultants and some are still doing what they know best—foaming roofs.