Course Description
This program first introduces the building science, processing, installation, and post-installation causes of problems in field-applied polyurethane foam plastic installations. Then, the four most common types of foam material quality problems are presented along with the means of determining which types are present in a given project or area of a project. Discussion of each type includes commentaries about when the foam material can be stabilized and repaired vs. when it has to be partially or completely removed and replaced. Finally, a range of strategies for remediating each of the foam material types is presented.
In addition to an overview of the procedure for selecting the proper method for remediating foam problems, this program emphasizes the importance of addressing air quality requirements during and after the removal and/or repair work. Case studies provide examples of problem foam installations for projects involving various building uses and types. One case study tracks a post-installation inspection identifying foam quality problems and documenting how product testing and remediation were performed. This PowerPoint presentation is supplemented with related handouts.
This program can be combined with other presentations which introduce the need for these industry protocols. They include:
- Designing quality foam plastic installations
- Foam and the codes
- Quality control protocols for foam plastic installations
- Inspecting foam plastic installations
- Best practices for avoiding problems in foam plastic installations
Learning Objectives:
1. Participants will be able to identify typical problems and failures in foam installations.
2. Participants will be able to differentiate between foam that should be removed and replaced and foam that only needs to be repaired.
3. Participants will know how to perform on-site testing for product density, adhesion, pass thickness, and dimensional stability.
4. Participants will be able to select the appropriate remediation strategies for problem foam installations.
5. Participants will be able to identify the best method for repairing anomalous defects in foam installations that are otherwise within acceptable limits.