(812) 206-7700

What is SPF (and Why Does it Matter)?

Just about everyone in the roofing industry knows that spray foam is something that no other roofing system can compete with. To fully understand this, you have to see every advantage. If you’re looking at major commercial roof repairs or a replacement entirely, don’t discount an SPF roof.

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sprayed Polyurethane Foam. This is a revolutionary type of roofing that provides the best insulation properties of any roof system. It doesn’t require tearing off your old roof system and that means it has a clean and easy installation. On top of all this, because it doesn’t have any fasteners or seams, leaks and repairs are extremely rare.

Spray polyurethane foam is fluid-applied at an average thickness of 1 – 2 inches. As the foam cures, it expands to approximately 20 times its original mass. Within minutes, it becomes a very rigid and durable insulating layer. An elastomeric coating layer is then applied over the SPF to provide further protection from the elements.

The Benefits of an SPF Roof

The advantages of spray foam begin at installation and end with the long life of your roof. While some building managers look at the high price tag and balk, the truth is that all the benefits of spray foam add up to make the superior quality well worth the investment.

Easy Installation Process

No matter how complex your roof is, spray foam is easy and quick to install. Our team just needs to be able to get our equipment on or near your roof to be able to install this system. Because spray foam is self-adhering, it can be applied directly to most existing substrates, which eliminates the cost of tear-off, reduces waste, limits interior exposure and downtime, and keeps labor costs low. 

In most cases, a spray foam roof can be installed directly over top of your existing roof, as long as it is clean and dry. When you need a new roof, but can’t afford to stop your business operations for installation, then spray foam is the solution you’re looking for.

High-Quality Roofing

Spray foam doesn’t require a lot of repairs to keep your roof in great working order, as there are not many things that can damage it. When repairs are needed, however, they are extremely easy to make. If a split, crack, or leak appears, the fix is simply to cut the foam out around the area to ensure you have a smooth work surface and apply caulk to fill it in. 

Generally, only routine maintenance is needed to keep your roof in prime condition for 15-20 years. This durable material is designed to stand up against all kinds of severe weather. No other roof system can resist wind uplift or ponding water like spray foam. When your roof reaches the end of that lifespan, though, it’s not time for a new roof. Only the protective coating needs to be replaced to keep your roof for another 15-20 years. 

Energy Savings

SPF has the highest R-value rating of any other roofing system. Spray foam acts as insulation for your building with no extra layers, helping to keep it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The high price tag of SPF turns a lot of people toward lower quality roof systems, but the fact is that the energy savings alone make this superior material worth it. 

A study carried out by Texas A&M University determined that their spray foam roofs had completely paid for themselves through reduced energy expenses in under 5 years. 

In addition to insulation, spray foam has a reflective coating installed over top of it, which reflects UV rays into the atmosphere rather than absorbing them and converting them into heat energy. This keeps your building naturally cooler in the summer.

At IRC, we want you to reap every benefit of a high-quality roof system. We believe wholeheartedly in the powers of a spray foam roof. Let us help you save money in the long run and get a roof that will stand the test of time.

Get a quote.

Need a New Roof?

Start a Conversation