How to Restore Spray Polyurethane Foam Roofing

By Adam Cabrera 

Understanding the unique challenges and benefits of SPF roofing can help maximize both its longevity and efficiency. 

In a recent Understanding Roof Restoration podcast episode, host Karen Edwards welcomed industry veterans Hal Leland and Greg Hlavaty from Western Colloid, to discuss the nuanced world of spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing and talked about its history, composition and maintenance.  

"Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance is the word for foam roofs," Greg stated, outlining the challenge in assessing SPF roofing. "There are some people that every so many years, whether it's seven years or eight years or nine years, they recoat their foam roof and they can make them last a long time." Due to its unique characteristics, SPF roofing can hold water for an extended period without showing immediate signs of damage, making it essential for professionals to keep a close eye on moisture content.  

Greg expanded on this by highlighting the cost effectiveness of SPF when properly maintained. "If you were going to spend $20 on a system that's going to give you a complete membrane and $14 on a roof, that's just going to repair it, sometimes it's best to spend that extra six bucks and get the whole package," he said. 

Both experts agreed on pairing an SPF roofing system with a cool roof due to their ability to bolster energy efficiency. “Always, always use a cool roof on a foam roof. I mean, we use a cool roof on every roof, but foam is hand in hand,” Hal said. 

Whether you're in the planning or execution stage of your SPF roof restoration, making informed decisions can save you time, money, and a heap of unforeseen issues down the line. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the video to learn more about what the experts at Western Colloid have to say about restoring spray polyurethane foam roofing.