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Two months after devastating hurricanes hit the U.S., much of the curbside debris has been hauled away yet the myriad of daily rebuilding decisions continues for contractors and homeowners. But one resource, released by the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), is making some of those rebuilding decisions a little easier.

The comprehensive document focuses on flood-resistant construction methods using closed-cell spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation, which puts industry best practices into the hands of contractors and homeowners focused on code-compliant rebuilding in flood zones.

“Rebuilding after a natural disaster is tough emotionally, physically, and financially for everyone involved,” says Jeremy Parker, Director of Spray Foam Strategy, Accella. “While homeowners are aching to rebuild right now, contractors have the extra burden of making sure the rebuild is done right. This SPFA paper details insulation materials and techniques that will ensure a home absorbs and retains as little water as possible should future flooding occur.”

According to the SPFA document, while recent hurricanes may have hit the Texas and the southeastern U.S. floods can happen anywhere making this industry insight critical to any region of the country and any phase of the home building process.

“Closed-cell SPF foams tightly seals all nooks and crannies that other insulations would leave exposed. It’s the best choice to reestablish the drainage plane from the inside without the added cost of removing the brick veneer,” says Parker. “This airtight, inert polymer seal protects a home or building from absorbing water, which in turn, deters mold and mildew — the other hazard caused by flood waters.”

Why Closed-Cell SPF?

• Only closed-cell SPF is classified as an “acceptable flood resistant material” by FEMA. “Flood-resistant Material” is defined as a building material capable of withstanding direct and prolonged contact with floodwater without sustaining significant damage. Closed-cell foam is the only wall and ceiling insulation material classified as “acceptable.”
• SPF helps reduce strengthens the structure and helps protect the internal air from air pollutants and allergens.
• SPF can reduce air leakage by up to 83% and energy consumption by up to 40%.
• SPF expands by approximately 40 times, helping to effectively seal penetrations and gaps in the building envelope.
• SPF is easy to use and install.

The SPFA paper provides contractors with an illustrated step-by-step plan for removing water damaged walls and ceilings, drying and cleaning surfaces, and installing a waterproof, code-compliant closed-cell foam envelope to any structure.

To download this valuable SPFA resource, Flood Resistant Construction Using Closed-Cell SPF, click here. To inquire specifically about Accella’s closed-cell SPF products as well as our full line of specialty coatings for thermal and moisture protection, roofing, and waterproofing, please contact us today.