FAQ

Handi-Foam One-Component foam is ordinarily not recommended to fill large cavities, why?

Q. Handi-Foam One-Component foam, when exposed to direct sunlight must be painted or stained.
A. The sun's ultraviolet rays will discolor and deteriorate the foam over a period of time.
Q. Why use Handi-Foam Two-Component foam for large voids and surface areas?
A. Because Two-Component foam is chemically cured, tack-free in minutes and cures quickly. Additional moisture to aid curing inside of the cavity is NOT necessary.
Q. What happens to foam if it is stored at high temperatures?
A. It reduces the shelf life. Pressurized containers may rupture if stored above 120 degrees F.
Q. What happens to the foam if it is stored at lower temperatures?
A. This may cause further separation of liquid components in the can, requiring greater agitation (shaking) before using, and/or longer time will be necessary to re-condition chemicals to proper application temperatures.
Q. What happens if the foam is used at colder temperatures?
A. Lower temperatures will cause slower flow rates and a longer cure time. The Two-Component mixing and spray pattern will be adversely affected.
Q. What happens if the foam is used at higher temperatures?
A. This will cause faster flow rates, created by a higher pressure in the can. The yield and density of Two-Component may be affected in extreme conditions.
Q. What if cured foam is exposed to temperatures outside of the working range?
A. This may cause degradation in the foam's characteristics. Extreme temperatures may create a fire hazard.
Q. What should be done if the foam gets into the eyes?
A. Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes and IMMEDIATELY consult a physician.
Q. What if the foam gets on the skin?
A. Scrub repeatably with soap (abrasive cleaner or pumice soap works best) and water. Apply handcream if irritation develops, and consult a physician if it persists.
Q. What is a Board Foot?
A. One Square foot with 1" depth coverage. Since one square foot = 12"x12", then one board foot = 12" x 12" x 1". One Cubic Foot = 12" x 12" x 12" = 1,728 cubic inches.
Q. Does the foam contain Flame Retardants?
A. Yes. ALL Handi-Foam systems contain Flame Retardants.
Q. Is the foam Fire-Proof?
A. NO. If exposed to sufficient heat and flame, polyurethane foam will burn. This is true of ALL polyurethane foam since it is an organic material, just like wood or cotton fabric.
Q. Does the foam give off toxic fumes if burned?
A. Refer to MSDS. Burning foam will emit mainly carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and small traces of other toxic gases, such as HCL, HF and HCN. As with burning of any organic material, avoid breathing the fumes.
Q. Is the foam a Class 1 foam (classified by UL)?
A. All One-Component Handi-Foam carries the UL classification label on each container. Handi-Foam Two-Component is available in Class 1 (E-84) upon request. The local building authority should be consulted for foam classification requirements in specific applications. "Class 1" foam means that the foam has been tested by Underwriter's Laboratories(UL)for flame spread and smoke development, according to the ASTM E-84 tunnel test for surface burning characteristics. Most major building code authorities conside "Class 1" foam to meet these parameters: Flame spread <25* and smoke developed <450. *Whenever numerical flame spread ratings are given, they are not intended to represent hazards under actual fire conditions.