How to choose the right mounting foam: professional advice. Mounting foam - how to choose, how to apply correctly Which mounting foam is better for doors

In this article, you will find out which polyurethane foam better for various construction and repair tasks and what characteristics should be paid attention to when choosing it. The presented rating of polyurethane foams is based on user reviews and tests posted on various resources on the Internet.

How to determine which mounting foam is better

To choose the right foam, you need to understand what characteristics and qualities it has. May be required for different purposes various properties this building material.

So, the main characteristics of mounting foam:

• Viscosity is a property on which the heat and sound insulation characteristics of the foam depend. The lower the viscosity, the worse these qualities and the faster the material will be destroyed. The degree of viscosity is directly dependent on temperature and humidity.
• Adhesion - the ability of a foam to adhere to the various materials it is applied to. As a rule, high quality foam has good adhesion to most building materials, with the exception of polyethylene and Teflon. The higher the adhesion, the tighter it fits, and therefore the better the insulating properties.
• The volume of foam at the exit - how many liters of foam will be obtained from one can.
• Primary expansion is a property that shows how much the volume of the released foam will increase in the first minutes after exiting the cylinder. The expansion of a good mounting foam should not exceed 30% of the original volume.
• Secondary expansion - the final increase in the volume of the foam after polymerization. The lower this value, the better - foam with low secondary expansion will not cause deformation of the structure in which it is used.
• Structural uniformity. This property shows how evenly the air bubbles are distributed over the volume of the foam, and how equal they are to each other. In high-quality foam, the bubbles should be small in size, evenly distributed throughout the entire volume of the material.

Household or professional polyurethane foam

All types of mounting foam can be divided into two large groups - these are professional and household foam. Professional foam can only be applied using a special tool - a gun.

Mounting foam under the gun.

Household foam is produced with a straw (special applicators) and does not require the use of a gun.

Mounting foam under the tube.

Naturally, household mounting foam cannot be used for professional purposes - it simply will not cope with the tasks. But the reverse replacement (professional foam for domestic purposes) is quite acceptable.

The volume of pistol foam, as a rule, turns out to be 3 times more than household foam, provided that the cylinders are of equal weight. This is due to the fact that household foam coming out through the tube has a high density and low yield. Also, household foam polymerizes slowly and has a large expansion.

The method of extracting the foam from the cylinder directly affects its subsequent properties. Professional installation requires the use of only gun foam. Household foam is useful only for local repairs (sealing up a hole, sealing a gap, etc.) at home.

Winter, summer or all season

Mounting foam is divided into three types, depending on the temperatures at which it can be used:

Summer - it is allowed to use at an air temperature of +5 - +35 degrees.

Winter - used in the temperature range from -10 to -35 degrees.

All-weather - can be used both in winter and in summer, at a temperature of -10 - +35 degrees.

It is important to use mounting foam suitable for air temperature. The fact is that it tends to reduce the volume when it gets colder. Therefore, summer foam in the winter will not be voluminous enough. The permissible temperature range is usually indicated on the cylinder.

It should also be remembered that the temperature requirements are for installation, and not for use. hardened foam has the same properties and the same characteristics at temperatures from -40 to +90 degrees.

What foam is considered high quality

How to understand that you have high-quality polyurethane foam in front of you? Not always and not everyone has the opportunity to purchase several cylinders for comparison.

Therefore, you should pay attention to the following signs indicating high quality foam:

1. Package condition.

No mechanical damage and chemical influences on the packaging indicates that the material was stored in proper conditions, therefore, it must meet the requirements.

2. Expiration date and release date.

Do not buy polyurethane foam, which is nearing the end of its expiration date. The fresher the sealant, the higher the performance it will have.

The expiration date can be indicated on the bottom of the cylinder or on its top:

1. Homogeneity of the mixture.

This parameter can be easily checked before purchase without the use of foam. Just turn the can upside down a few times and shake it. If the contents at the same time flow smoothly, without sharp drops of substances down, then the material corresponds to high quality. If shocks are felt, then the hardening process has already begun, and it is better not to buy such foam.

4. Expansion coefficient.

Not always a high coefficient of expansion will be in demand, because the foam, increasing in volume, can deform the structure. However, if it is necessary to fill cavities for the purpose of sealing, this quality will be one of the most important.

High-quality household foam has a degree of expansion of up to 60% of the original volume. This indicator for professional pistol foam can reach 300%.

5. Foam color.

Unfortunately, this characteristic can only be assessed after opening and using the cylinder. Quality foam has a light yellow color. The darkening of the sealant indicates the beginning of polymerization.

1. Adhesion.

This is the ability of a sealant to adhere to materials, measured in MPa. The adhesion of the mounting foam ranges from 0.4-0.48 MPa. The higher this value, the better the sealant.

What you need to know about foam manufacturers

Polyurethane foam is produced using a complex technology that requires the use of high-tech expensive equipment. Therefore, the number of building sealant manufacturers in the world is limited. Moreover, only a few brands enjoy well-deserved popularity due to the high quality of the product.

However, the so-called contract brands are entering the market, producing mounting foam under a contract. On the label of such cylinders, information about the manufacturer is usually not displayed. It can be simply written - made in Russia or Europe without specifying the company.

Such a marking should immediately alert the buyer and, at a minimum, make him pay attention to other signs that characterize the quality of the material.

It is not recommended to buy contract foam, because at the same price it has a lower quality than the original manufacturer. The fact is that the owner of a contract firm is wedged into a well-coordinated chain of Manufacturer - Dealer - Seller - Buyer.

Naturally, he also needs to earn money, and therefore he has two options: to increase the price of the product, or to reduce production costs, which will inevitably lead to a decrease in quality.

The best manufacturers of polyurethane foam

The selection of goods is based on reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and trademarks and we do not call for the purchase of certain products. The article is informational.

Polyurethane foam Penosil

The first place among the best mounting foams is occupied by Penosil. Its products are distinguished by the highest quality, reasonable price, as well as a record output volume. In addition, the foam of this manufacturer boasts a lack of shrinkage and secondary expansion.

Consider first Penosil household foams:

PENOSIL Premium Foam Winter. It is used for filling voids, mounting structural elements and insulation. It is characterized by ease of use, uniform structure, excellent adhesion with all materials and demonstration of high-quality results at any temperature.

PENOSIL Premium FireRated Foam B1. Used for mounting and insulating fireproof doors. Also, this type of foam is used in the insulation and installation of pipelines and power lines in the passages. Sealant has excellent filling properties, has increased resistance to open fire and high temperatures.

PENOSIL Premium Foam Winter is used for filling voids, mounting structural elements and insulation. It is characterized by ease of use, uniform structure, excellent adhesion with all materials and demonstration of high-quality results at any temperature.

PENOSIL Premium FireRated Foam B1 is used for mounting and insulating fireproof doors. Also, this type of foam is used in the insulation and installation of pipelines and power lines in the passages. The sealant has excellent filling properties, has increased resistance to open fire and high temperatures.

PENOSIL Standard Foam All Season - foam for sealing joints, sealing gaps and holes, as well as for filling voids. Can be used for sealing building structures. The advantage of this sealant is its versatility - it is used both indoors and outdoors.

PENOSIL Standard Foam is a household sealant used for sound and heat insulation, filling voids, sealing cracks and seams. It has excellent filling characteristics and can be used indoors and outdoors.

PENOSIL Standard Foam Winter - mounting foam for sealing gaps, voids, seams, as well as for mounting various designs. It can be used at low air temperatures, during the cold season. It has excellent filling power and adhesion.

PENOSIL Premium FastFoam 2K is a foam with an increased polymerization rate. After use, the foam can be cut after only 15 minutes.

Now consider professional pistol-type mounting foams:

PENOSIL Gold Gun is a foam used in areas where high quality standards are required. It is used when installing tiles, wall panels, thermal insulation materials, windows, doors and other structures. It is characterized by a uniform composition and fast setting. Can be used under various external conditions.

PENOSIL Gold Gun Winter is a sealant that is used during the installation of roofing and wall materials, heaters, doors and windows. It is also used in the installation of various structures that require high quality. Main advantages: accurate dosage and consumption, high polymerization rate, uniform structure, the same quality when used under different conditions.

PENOSIL Gold Gun 65 is a strong mounting foam, which is used when performing large-scale jobs that require an increased consumption of sealant. For example, it is used when installing doors, windows, wall panels, tiles. It has a low degree of secondary expansion and excellent adhesion.

PENOSIL Gold Gun 65 Winter is used during extensive installation of doors, windows, insulation, wall panels, roofing materials and other structures. The sealant has a uniform structure and can be used under various environmental conditions.

PENOSIL GoldGun 65 Plus All Season is an all-weather professional polyurethane foam designed for large-scale work with high quality standards. Foam is able to fill voids in concrete, brick, wood and plasterboard structures. Advantages - environmental friendliness, excellent adhesion, accurate dosage.

PENOSIL GoldGun Low Expansion All Season is a slow expansion gun type foam. It is used in pressure sensitive structures. The use of this sealant will not lead to the destruction of the structure or damage to its individual elements, which determines the scope of this material.

PENOSIL Premium Gunfoam is used for sealing windows and doors, pipe installation. It has a uniform composition and has good grip.

PENOSIL Premium Gunfoam Winter is a foam for mounting windows, doors, pipes and other structures, as well as for filling openings. It has a uniform structure, demonstrates high quality in different conditions.

PENOSIL Premium Gunfoam 65 is a high yield professional foam (15% more than normal) with a low expansion ratio. Used for insulation and installation of pipes, windows, doors. PENOSIL Premium Gunfoam 65 Winter is a similar foam used in low temperatures.

PENOSIL Premium FireRated Gunfoam B1 is a fire-resistant professional mounting foam with low secondary expansion. Used to install fireproof doors.

PENOSIL Standard Gunfoam - foam for sealing joints, filling voids and openings, installing various structures. It has good adhesion to all materials.

PENOSIL Standard Gunfoam 65 Winter is a polyurethane foam that has an increased yield and can be used at temperatures up to -10 degrees.

PENOSIL Standard Gunfoam All Season is an all-weather sealant for filling voids, seams and holes, demonstrating high quality, both indoors and outdoors.

Penosil Standard Gunfoam 65 foam with 15% more yield than standard types. It has improved heat and sound insulation.

Polyurethane foam Soudal

Soudal is the largest manufacturer of polyurethane foam. This company was the first to introduce low expansion sealants to the market. The company also owns a patent for the Genius Gun applicator, which has many advantages over manual cans. Soudal produces pistol foams and cans with applicators.

Consider the most popular brands of Soudal foam:

Mounting foam Comfort with applicator Genius Gun. All-weather mounting foam with a patented Genius Gun applicator, which allows you to conveniently apply the foam while allowing the can to be used several times without the risk of valve jamming. It is used for filling voids and cracks, thermal insulation of heating and sewerage elements, installation of doors, windows and window sills.

Winter polyurethane foam with Genius Gun applicator. It is possible to use foam at temperatures down to -10°C, equipped with a convenient applicator. It is used for sealing cracks, thermal insulation of heating and sewage elements, installation of window and door frames.

Gun polyurethane foam Soudal. It has low expansion, high performance and dimensional stability. Thanks to its low expansion, it is suitable for mounting thin PVC profiles. It is applied to any finishing and installation works.

Winter pistol polyurethane foam Soudal. It is allowed to use at temperatures down to -10°C, while the foam has a low expansion, like its summer counterpart. Can be used for any installation work.

Mounting foam Windows Doors with applicator Genius Gun. Polyurethane foam with a special applicator that provides convenient application and use of the cylinder with temporary pauses, without the risk of valve jamming. The main purpose is the installation of door and window frames, but it can also be used to seal cracks and joints.

Polyurethane foam Tytan

Tytan is a Polish company producing high quality polyurethane foam. At a low cost, this sealant is characterized by high quality and excellent insulating properties.

Consider what brands of mounting foam this manufacturer produces:

TYTAN Professional 65 UNI has an output of up to 65 liters with a weight of 1 kg, has increased resistance to moisture and mold. Hardened, it does not allocate harmful substances. Used for professional installation of doors and windows.

TYTAN Professional GUN is a professional foam that does not emit harmful chemicals and has excellent sound and heat insulation. It is used in the installation and sealing of doors and windows, as well as for insulation.

TYTAN Professional 65 is a mounting foam that does not deform structures during primary and secondary expansion. This property determines its scope - when installing door and window structures that are vulnerable to external loads.

TYTAN Professional B1 is a fire retardant professional foam with excellent smoke and fire insulating properties. It is applied at installation of fire-prevention and fire-resistant designs - partitions, windows, doors.

TYTAN Professional Low Expansion is a high performance foam with controlled expansion. Used for sealing window frames from PVC and wood, filling voids and cracks.

TYTAN Euro-line GUN is a professional polyurethane foam with secondary expansion up to 150%. Due to the presence of a special valve, gas leakage and dirt from entering the cylinder are prevented. It is used when installing windows and doors, insulating various structures.

Mounting foam STD with the new ERGO applicator has the following advantages: accuracy of application, the ability to use for 60 days after opening, ergonomics, ease of use, high heat and noise insulation. Usually used for sealing, noise and heat insulation.

TYTAN Euro-line STD has a high degree of secondary expansion, which is 280-320% of the original volume. Used for professional installation and insulation of doors and windows.

TYTAN Professional STD is a winter polyurethane foam used at air temperatures in the range of -10 - +30 degrees. It has excellent thermal and sound insulation. It is applied at installation, isolation and sealing of windows and doors.

TYTAN Euro-line STD is a winter polyurethane foam equipped with a new valve that eliminates gas leakage and clogging. It has a wide range of applications - heat and sound insulation, installation of structures, filling voids and seams.

Illbruck polyurethane foam

Illbruck is a brand of professional foams that are easy enough to handle even for a construction novice. The cylinder has a special valve, combined with a spray nozzle and a gun. The manufacturer produces a wide range of foams: winter, summer, fire-fighting, elastic and two-component.

The manufacturer produces the following brands of mounting foams:

FM070 LETO is a foam with a high volume yield (65 liters) and excellent adhesive properties. In construction and repair, it is used for insulation and sealing of seams in windows, doors and other structures.

FM070 - polyurethane foam, which can be used at air temperatures up to -10 degrees. The cylinder has a universal valve that is compatible with the gun and nozzle. Designed for sound and heat insulation, filling voids and seams, fixing door and window structures.

FM310 is a high specific gravity gunfoam with excellent insulating properties. It is used during the installation of windows and doors for their sealing and fixing, as well as filling the resulting voids.

FM330 is a polyurethane foam with increased elasticity, uniform composition and low pressure on the structure during expansion. It can be used when mounting door and window blocks even at low temperatures.

FM341 is a winter polyurethane foam that can be used at temperatures from -10 to +35 degrees. The presence of a universal valve allows you to use both the spray nozzle and the gun. This foam is used for insulation, sealing and insulation of seams that occur during the installation of doors and windows.

FM710 is a professional two-component foam with increased mechanical resistance. It is used in the installation of doors and windows that experience increased mechanical stress.

FF197 - fire retardant foam with fire protection up to 240 minutes, has high resistance to elevated temperatures, chemicals, moisture. It can be used for insulation and insulation of doors, hatches and windows in rooms with increased fire hazard.

Mounting foam Moment

Mounting foam Moment is characterized by a low price with a quality comparable to European counterparts. The line includes several models that differ in application conditions and foam characteristics. Moment Installation is used when installing and sealing doors, windows, roofing elements, as well as for filling joints and voids. Such foam has good adhesion, is resistant to moisture and UV rays, has increased sound and heat insulation.

The manufacturer produces the following brands of foam:

Moment Installation Standard - foam with high heat and sound insulation, resistant to moisture and aging, has good adhesion. It is used in the installation of windows and doors, sealing joints, filling voids and insulating structures.

Moment Installation All-season - foam used in a wide range of temperatures, has good adhesion to almost all building materials. It is used for sealing holes, joints, cavities, as well as for sealing door and window blocks.

Moment Installation 65 is a tubular one-component foam equipped with a convenient turbo nozzle that increases sealant yield by up to 35%. It is used for sealing roof structures and insulating doors and windows.

Moment Installation Professional - pistol-type foam, characterized by high accuracy of application and dosing. It is used for sealing seams and openings, heat and sound insulation of roof structures and partitions.

Moment Installation Professional All-weather - one-component pistol foam used at positive and negative temperatures (up to -10 degrees). Used to create soundproof screens and seal joints around pipes, windows and doors.

Moment Mounting 65 Professional - gun mounting foam with high heat and sound insulation, and increased yield (up to 35%). Involved in the installation of doors and windows, sealing and insulation of various structures.

Moment Installation 65 Professional All-weather - one-component foam with high dosage and application accuracy, which can be used at air temperatures from -10 to +35 degrees. They are used for sealing seams, insulation and soundproofing of various structures.

Moment Installation Fire-resistant - foam with excellent fire resistance (class B1) and fire safety (class B). Used for installation, sealing and insulation of structures operated in conditions of increased fire hazard.

Interesting points and features of different foams

Before proceeding directly to the assessment and description of some brands of mounting foam, a few words about what it is. As well as some clarifications and reservations.
Everyone knows that polyurethane foam is a liquid polymer that hardens in air. In order for this polymer to be exactly in the form of foam, it is mixed with a filler gas in a high-pressure canister. This is the alphabet. Now let's dig a little deeper.

Mounting foam, regardless of the manufacturer, can be produced in two versions. The first is a household option (a spray can with a straw), for those who generally took it in their hands for the first time in their lives. Well, the second option involves fastening a cylinder with foam for a special gun. This is for craftsmen and professionals. The difference here is not only in spray cans and methods of their use.

Taking advantage of the fact that the adapter (household) version of the can is used mainly by those who are far from construction and took the foam for the first and last time, manufacturers make fewer demands on it. And yes, they often mess up. Household cartridges sometimes have an excess of filler gas. And sometimes the opposite happens, the gas came out, and the polymer is another quarter of the can. The polymer foams often non-uniformly, with large bubbles. Often has a large secondary expansion. That is, they blew out a gap in the wall with this foam, and an hour later two more buckets of foam crawled out of this gap and froze in a huge bubble. The only plus is that it does not require any additional tools. I screwed the tube onto the balloon, blew out the foam, how much came out and threw the balloon into the trash can. All.

Mounting foam in a professional performance is taken by comrades who, by the nature of their activities, constantly use it. Using with a gun is more convenient (one dosage of foam and the thickness of the seam is worth something). And not only. Here, the composition of the resulting foam is more uniform and dense, and the secondary expansion is small (if not completely absent). You can also have options for winter use or increased fire resistance.

But with the declared volumes of foam, everything is not always smooth. Often on foam cans they write “foam output 65 liters”, no 70! That's just 65 liters of foam at the output is obtained from 1 kilogram of pure polymer. And on the can it says 950 gr. Minus 100 grams for the cylinder itself and 150 grams for the gas filler. Total leftover 700 gr. Polymer. The total is a maximum of 45 liters at best. But hardly anyone will measure the amount of foam obtained from one cylinder with buckets. This is the calculation.
Let's now look at a few of the most well-known manufacturers mounting foam.

"Moment Montage"

One of the most popular brands. You can find it in absolutely any, even a provincial hardware store (where there is nothing else besides cement, boards and nails). But "Moment-montage" will be there for sure. Available in both domestic and industrial versions. Suitable for many types of work. Application - mainly all-weather. Therefore, special specific types of foam are not produced. The main direction is filling voids in building structures and sealing joints. The foam is dense and homogeneous in structure. Sticks well to many building materials. It can also be used for outdoor work (installation of door and window blocks). This foam is good for subsequent painting. But still, for installation and thermal insulation, it is better to look for other brands.
"Moment-montage" has a secondary expansion a little more than we would like. There are cases when mounting foam squeezes out window sills or door leads to door frames. Not always, of course, but it happens. Most likely, there are annoying fakes or hack work at the manufacturer. The foam is smelly (with a high content of toxic MDI additives). Color - yellow. Yes, and short-lived, after a year loses elasticity. But, I repeat, this is not a rule, but simply low-quality copies are more common than we would like.

Makroflex

This is really the most promoted and popular brand, and the most affordable. You can find it without problems in any store. Even where there is no Moment-Installation foam. Manufacturers produce "Makroflex" for both summer and winter use. It adheres very well to any building materials. Many builders praise this foam for having a good, uniform texture. Yes, and the secondary expansion does not particularly suffer. Declared foam output from 25 to 50 liters. Which is more like the truth (see note above). And the range of application is very wide.

This mounting foam is not only traditionally filled with voids and cracks, but also used as sound and heat insulation. Also used in the installation of door and window frames, window sills, plumbing. Even if something needs to be glued on hastily. Everything would be fine, but recently the macroflex brand has begun to seriously lose ground in terms of quality.

More and more people began to complain about fakes and frank marriage. Even professional options for a pistol are not without this ailment. That foam does not come out of the cylinder, but one polymer without gas stretches and smears clothes, hands and the surrounding area. On the contrary, one gas blows, and 10 liters of foam will come out and then some splashes. If this was an isolated case, then it would still be possible to reconcile.
But besides this, the installers complain that the mounting foam "Makroflex" has recently begun to hold volume badly. It is clear that the secondary expansion does not please anyone, but on the contrary, after drying, the foam shrinks. Then you have to cut the cavities and add foam to the lack of volume. Well, tell me, who wants to mess around twice? That's right, nobody. So even though “macroflex” remains the most widespread polyurethane foam, it is already gradually losing its place in the market.

Soudal

This brand of mounting foam is not found on the shelves of hardware stores as often as the aforementioned Macroflex and moment-mounting. But this does not prevent her from being on the highest lines of ratings. The point here, as many have guessed, is quality. The foam itself is made in several versions (summer, winter, fire-resistant). Which already speaks of a quality approach. The winter version of Soudal can operate at temperatures of -15 ... -20 degrees. Well, this is if there is a need to foam something in the winter. More output than competitors. It does not have toxic additives and an unpleasant odor.
Soudal has very little secondary expansion, is finely porous, dense and sticks well to everything (including hands). In addition to its direct purpose for filling voids and gaps, this polyurethane foam is perfect for sealing and insulating roofs, during installation of building structures and for internal works. It is very well suited for insulating pipes for heat and water supply during the installation of plumbing. No shrinkage was observed behind Soudal. Dries evenly and not too fast.
Like most mounting foams, Soudal does not like sunlight. If you do not cover the foam with paints or a protective layer, then in a year or two it will turn brown and begin to crumble. So it's worth keeping in mind. No other downsides were noted.

Penosil

Also not a very hyped and not spoiled brand of polyurethane foam. Perhaps this is what affects its quality. All installers who used Penosil foam deservedly praise it. She is loved for her dense and uniform structure, lack of shrinkage and low secondary expansion. Also, Penosil polyurethane foam is one of the champions in terms of foam output and other manufacturers should learn from it.
This mounting foam is perfect for interior work when installing and fixing building structures, filling cavities and gaps. Virtually odorless White color- Working with her is a pleasure. But for outdoor work, you should be careful about the type of foam. All season badly refuses to work at temperatures below -5 degrees. And in case of strong heat (if the building structures are heated from +35 and above), Foam often stops foaming and simply flows with a viscous mass. The winter version, for work in cold weather, is not very common.

"Titan O2"

Titanium is one of the most respected and popular brands. It has fully earned the trust due to its quality and installers do not complain about the price when buying it. Has many advantages. Non-toxic, perfectly clings to all building materials. Very fine and dense foam structure, holds volume well, does not expand and does not shrink. For this, she is preferred by installers of windows, doors and interior partitions. Moderate foam output (no excess gas).
Due to the fact that there are several options for manufactured Titanium, you can choose the right one for winter work or with increased resistance to fire. Again, thanks to finished foam holds volume very well, it is recommended by many for the installation of pipes for heating and water supply systems and for thermal insulation.
The weak point of Titan is that the polyurethane foam does not tolerate ultraviolet radiation and is short-lived. On the street, even if Sun rays do not directly fall on the foam, it literally loses all its properties in a year, darkens and crumbles. But in the interior, nothing of the kind was noticed.

The installation technology of modern metal-plastic structures: windows, doors, glazing of balconies and loggias, involves the use of mounting foam. Foam for window installation is a reliable sealing material that has proven itself in the Russian climate, especially in conditions of negative temperatures, where it demonstrates its high thermal insulation qualities.

Key Features

The reliability of the parameters of the mounting foam can be achieved subject to technological process when installing a plastic window and with the right choice of material. The characteristics of the foam must correspond to the conditions in which it is intended to be used: humidity, temperature, season and subsequent finishing of window slopes.

Installation of plastic windows is not complete without the use of mounting foam

This modern material not so long ago appeared on the construction market and gained its popularity along with metal-plastic structures, since according to the technology of their installation, mounting foam is indispensable. The mixture has high adhesive properties, does not pass electric current, easily fills hard-to-reach voids, is not subject to decay and has heat and sound insulating qualities..

Composition and scope

There are many well-established brands and unknown brands of mounting foam on the modern market, but in fact, it is a one-component polyurethane foam sealant in an aerosol package. The liquid prepolymer is displaced from the cylinder using a propellant gas under pressure.

After spraying the composition, it polymerizes - hardening under the influence of moisture from the air. The result is a porous material similar to foam, which can be used for slopes and processed in any way necessary: ​​cut, putty or plaster.

Hardened foam can be applied with putty and other Decoration Materials

This material is used for the installation and repair of window frames, door frames, window sills, and other structures made of concrete, plastic, metal and wood. Polyurethane foam is used when installing windows and doors to seal seams and crevices.

When working with mounting foam, you do not need to have special skills. It does not require the use accessories and sources of electricity.

Properties

This material is characterized by:

• the volume of foam, which indicates the size of the balloon;
• adhesion, that is, the force of adhesion to the surface;
• foaming, which means the transformation of the composition from a liquid state into a foam;
• expansion, which tells how much the volume of the foam increases during the solidification process. This indicator is important if sealing of deep seams and joints is required;
• secondary extension.

Foam expansion coefficient is especially taken into account when working with deep gaps

The secondary expansion index has a negative effect and can play a cruel joke if this property of the mounting foam is ignored. For example, when installing metal-plastic structures in the form of windows and doors, as a result of the secondary expansion of the foam, additional pressure arises on the structural elements with their subsequent deformation.. To prevent this, during the installation of windows it is necessary to install spacers.

Spacers prevent window deformation

Foam cannot be used for mounting purposes on ice, polyethylene, Teflon, silicone and oily surfaces.

Positive qualities of polyurethane foam:

• non-transmission of electric current;
• versatility of use - as a heater, sealant, adhesive and soundproofing composition;
• water-repellent properties;
• fire safety class B1;
• due to the property to significantly increase in volume, the foam effectively fills the most hard-to-reach places: seams, cracks, depressions, quickly hardening at the same time;
• the applied composition does not rot and is not afraid of mold;
• has high thermal insulation qualities;
• can be used for fixing plumbing and heating pipes, electrical wiring;
• used as a sealant with insulating properties when installing roofing materials;
• mounting foam when installing windows, due to its high adhesive properties, provides reliable fixation of window and door blocks without the use of nails and screws;
• soundproofing qualities allow dampening noise from vibrations. When installing plastic windows, this property complements the quality of the structure and enhances the effect of soundproof rubber seals installed in the window.

Mounting foam securely fixes window or door structures

Flaws:

• despite the fact that the material repels water from its surface, moisture can accumulate in its porous structure, which eventually destroys the structure of the foam and reduces its performance properties;
• is destroyed by direct sunlight;
• there are strict requirements for the storage of cylinders - vertical position and ambient temperature from not lower than 5 and not higher than 25 degrees;
• after contact with human skin, it is very difficult to wipe off and only with solvents, so it is important to use gloves when working with foam.

Varieties

If the composition of the material from different manufacturers has slight differences, then depending on the design of the cylinder itself, the foam can be professional and household.

professional

For professional or pistol foam, it is typical to use it in conjunction with an applicator gun as a device for dispensing material. To do this, the design of the cylinder is equipped with a special working valve, on which the gun is put on.

In professional construction, foam is used with an applicator gun

The use of a dosing device allows you to deliver the material in portions into the slots and recesses, control the amount of material and save its consumption. The device itself is ergonomically thought out and allows you to work with one hand, using the trigger and handle. A long thin metal nozzle allows you to feed the material into the recesses. In this case, the position of the bottom of the cylinder does not matter.

The applicator gun is a professional device, therefore it has high cost. It is acquired by builders-installers whose field of activity is directly related to its application..

Applicator gun allows you to use the balloon in any position

Modern cylinders are equipped with reusable valves. This ensures hermetic closure of the container and the preservation of the contents until the next use without loss of its quality and drying. The mechanism for attaching the cylinder to the gun can also be different: the valve can be threaded and screwed onto the gun or fastened.

household

For domestic use it makes no sense to purchase a dispenser gun, since special aerosol solvents are required to care for it, which also cost money.

For single use, it is better to use a bottle with a plastic tube.

For home occasional use, manufacturers offer household polyurethane foam. It is also called semi-professional or manual and is represented by only one cylinder without additional devices, except for a nozzle in the form of a plastic tube, which is put on the valve before starting work.

Seasonal classification

Depending on the requirements for temperature regime mounting foam is:

• summer;
• winter;
• all-weather.

Summer foam is recommended for use at temperatures from 5 to 35 degrees. Winter foam is used at temperatures from 18 degrees below zero to 35 degrees with a plus sign. The presence of special additives and additives ensures the passage of the polymerization process in conditions of low atmospheric humidity. It is important to remember that the higher the air temperature, the greater the expansion coefficient of the foam and vice versa..

Foam expansion coefficient depends on air temperature

The all-season option is rarely seen on the shelves of hardware stores, since this material is relatively new and is not manufactured by all manufacturers. The composition is characterized by improved qualities compared to winter and summer version, has an increased expansion coefficient and a high foaming rate at temperatures up to minus ten degrees.

Selection rules

The modern construction market offers a huge selection of these products from both well-known manufacturers and new companies. To do right choice it is important to pay attention to the following points.

Taking the cylinder in hand, check it for underfilling by comparing the actual weight with the declared volume. A 750 milliliter balloon should weigh between 850 and 920 grams. If there is not enough foam in the cylinder, then the internal pressure will drop low enough and some of the foam will remain inside.

When buying a bottle of foam, you need to pay attention to the expiration date

The percentage of secondary expansion, which occurs after a certain period of time - up to several days, is very important. It should not exceed the primary value by more than 20 percent, otherwise there will be deformation of the structures due to the occurrence of additional load.

The foam should stick to the surface with high quality, not drain from it, have low shrinkage and elasticity. You need to purchase a bottle with a fresh expiration date.

Application rules

By observing simple rules during operation, it is possible to ensure that the mounting foam when installing plastic windows will last a long time and retain its qualities.

Considering that polymerization occurs in a humid environment, the surface should be moistened with water before work. As a result, solidification will occur quickly and the expansion coefficient of the foam will increase.

When working in winter period it is necessary to clear the surface of ice and frost.

Before application, the balloon is actively shaken for 60 seconds. In winter, the cylinder should be at room temperature.

When spraying the contents, the container should be held upside down to concentrate the composite in the valve area. This will prevent a drop in internal pressure and allow the entire foam to be used..

While spraying the composition, the can must be kept upside down.

When filling the seam, you need to start work from the bottom and move up with a uniform movement of the cylinder. In this case, the seam must be filled by 50%. If it is very deep, then this can be done in several passes, while each previous layer should grab well.

The final curing of the foam will take approximately 8 hours, this indicator is related to humidity environment and temperature.

After hardening, the excess foam is cut off with a knife.

When the foam has hardened, you can cut off the excess with a knife and work to protect its surface from external influences such as moisture and sun. Foam can be plastered, puttied or painted. When installing plastic windows, it is hidden under cashing or flashings.

Common brands

• Moment Mounting;
• Makroflex;
• Soudal.

"Moment-mounting" is the most common option, produced for domestic and professional use.. Seasonally - usually all-season. Differs in high adhesive properties. Due to its dense and homogeneous structure, it is most often used in the installation of metal-plastic structures.

"Makroflex" is also often found in stores. Suitable for use on any surface. It has a low coefficient of secondary expansion. Divided according to seasonality.

"Soudal" is not so common on sale, but this foam is worth looking for, as it has excellent qualities.. It is characterized by the absence of toxins and a specific smell, good density and slight porosity. In addition to winter and summer foam, fire-resistant options are produced by the manufacturer.

This material is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a guide to the purchase. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

When performing a number of construction and repair work such a universal sealing material as polyurethane foam is used. The product is a one-component polyurethane composition, which is under pressure in a cylinder. When exposed to air, the composition polymerizes and hardens, forming a dense porous insulation layer. The material has good sound and heat insulation qualities, moisture resistance, low electrical conductivity and fire resistance. The weaknesses of the mounting foam is sensitivity to ultraviolet rays, due to which the sealant turns yellow and collapses. In the distribution network there is a huge range of mounting foams. To make it easier for the buyer to choose the optimal composition for the price and properties, experts recommend taking into account several points.

The main criteria for choosing mounting foam

1. Ordinary household foam is produced in a one-time version, a straw is attached to the cylinder. Typically, such a product does not have a high density, it has a noticeable secondary expansion. Most often, such a composition is acquired to fill cracks and voids, where special accuracy and accuracy in work are not required.
2. For professionals, polyurethane foam in cylinders for a special gun is intended. The material has a high density, after drying it retains its original volume, the foam yield is much higher. Thanks to the gun, the flow of the insulator can be adjusted, which allows economical use of the product. One cylinder can be used several times, washing the gun after each use.
3. An important characteristic of the mounting foam is the temperature range of application. Having bought a summer composition, you can work at a positive temperature from +5 to +40 ° С. The all-weather product has a wider operating range -10...+30°C. And for sealing seams and filling voids in frost, it is better to use winter option which can withstand temperatures down to -20°C.
4. On a can of polyurethane foam, you can also find fire markings. If the product is labeled B1, then the composition is refractory. The designation B3 indicates the combustibility of the material. This factor is important to consider when sealing chimneys or heating boilers.

Experts have selected 7 of the best polyurethane foams in our review. When compiling the rating, the following criteria were taken into account:

1. safety of application and operation;
2. technical specifications;
3. price;
4. professional opinion;
5. reviews of domestic users.

Rating of the best mounting foams

Mounting foam Penosil GoldGun 65 is chosen mainly by professional builders. They note the perfect combination of price and quality of the Estonian product. Experts also note the lack of shrinkage and slight re-expansion, which makes the composition predictable. The foam deserved special praise from specialists for the highest possible yield. The material finds a wide range of applications, starting with the installation of window and door frames and ending with filling all kinds of voids.

According to experts, Penosil GoldGun 65 polyurethane foam deserves the highest rating for its high quality, reasonable price, consistently white color and record yield in terms of volume. You can criticize the foam only for the fear of low temperatures.

Advantages

high quality;

acceptable price;

record output in terms of volume;

lack of shrinkage and secondary expansion;

Flaws

• at sub-zero temperatures, the foam does not come out of the cylinder.

The Belgian polyurethane foam Soudal is not inferior to the winner of the rating in terms of quality. It is fire resistant, which allows the composition to be used for sealing furnaces or chimneys, creating a thermal envelope or when installing a roof. The insulator exhibits excellent adhesion, no shrinkage and minimal secondary expansion. After drying, the product becomes dense, it forms a finely porous structure. Experts note such qualities of the foam as a good yield, insulation durability, color retention, and the absence of cracks.

Along with good quality, wide scope of application and preservation of volume after drying, the material also has disadvantages. Professional builders consider the accelerated destruction of insulation under the influence of sunlight to be the main one.

Advantages

wide scope of application;

durability;

dense finely porous structure;

thermal and fire resistance;

Flaws

• destructive impact UV rays.

One of the most popular mounting foams in our country is the Estonian product Makroflex Standart. It is used by both home craftsmen and professional builders. A distinctive feature of the foam is its excellent adhesion to any substrate. Due to its versatility, the insulator is used in different types works, whether it be foaming of cracks or installation of windows and doors. The material withstands temperature extremes well, so when it gets cold, you don’t have to run with a can to a heat source.

The promotion of the brand played a cruel joke with him. In the domestic market, there is an abundance of fakes with the inscription Makroflex. Their appearance was facilitated by the high price for a quality product. Experts put the foam in the third position in the rating also for shrinkage after drying.

Advantages

versatility of application;

resistance to temperature extremes;

excellent adhesive ability;

Flaws

high price;

shrinkage after drying.

The best option for winter use is the Polish mounting foam Titan O2. The product is affordable, its high quality is confirmed by experts. But consumer reviews did not allow polyurethane foam to get into the top three. They note such negative qualities of the material as the fragility of existence outside buildings, low resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Otherwise, the insulator deserves the most flattering words. After hardening, a fine-meshed dense structure is formed, which does not change its volume. Foam can be used in children's or medical institutions due to its harmlessness to the human body.

Professionals most often buy Titan O2 foam for installing windows and doors in new buildings. Over the years, the insulation remains airtight and undamaged.

Advantages

resistance to negative temperature;

no shrinkage;

affordable price;

Flaws

• collapsed under the influence of external factors.

most affordable price boasts Ultima polyurethane foam. It is designed for domestic needs, it can be used to seal cracks and voids inside and outside buildings. The product has good adhesion and fast polymerization. The balloon comes with a handy applicator that can be used to fill any cavities. Experts included foam in the rating due to ease of use, the formation of a dense layer of insulation. The secondary expansion at the level of 70% did not allow to rise above the mounting foam. The insulation layer must be reliably protected from the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Users selected from positive properties large volume, low price and ease of use. At the same time, there is a high consumption of material and a persistent unpleasant odor.

Advantages

low price;

ease of use;

fast drying;

Flaws

low resistance to atmospheric influences;

high consumption of material.

A worthy competitor to foreign materials is the domestic mounting foam TechnoNIKOL 65 Constant. Her strengths experts call the versatility of use, increased output of the insulator from the cylinder, moderate expansion. With complete drying, no shrinkage is observed, the secondary expansion is within the margin of error. The product is not inferior to the leaders of the rating in terms of adhesion to various building materials. Most often, polyurethane foam is used to insulate plumbing, install door and window blocks.

Consumers in the reviews complain about the lack of domestic insulating material in the distribution network. Do not use foam with bases such as polyethylene, fluoroplastic or silicone.

Advantages

versatility of application;

predictable drying behavior;

high output;

Flaws

shortage in sales;

over time, it crumbles and crumbles.

In every Russian store with building slope you can find one-component foam Moment Installation. Cylinders with insulating material Are issued both under the gun, and disposable application. The greatest demand is for all-weather foam, which is suitable for a wide range of construction and repair work. The composition is not inferior to the leaders of the rating in adhesion; after drying, a dense and uniform layer of insulation is formed. Ecologists did not find compounds toxic or harmful to the human body in the material.

The low position in our ranking of Foam Moment Mounting can be explained a large number fakes. Some of them have a pungent odor and an uncharacteristic yellow color. Another counterfeit is able to squeeze out a door or window frame during the drying process.

Advantages

acceptable price;

safety for the human body;

good adhesion;

Flaws

a large number of fakes;

crumbles and darkens over time.

Attention! This rating is subjective, is not an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Polyurethane foam - is an aerosol (usually 750 ml) with polyurethane. It is used to fill gaps and cracks that occur during the installation of PVC windows, bathroom insulation, outdoor and many other construction works.

The range will puzzle even an experienced craftsman

Foam performs the following functions:

• sealing (filling voids and holes);
• sound insulation (noise reduction when filling the bath with water);
• gluing (fixing doors and window blocks).

When used, the composition expands several times, due to which it penetrates into the most inaccessible places and seals them. The material consists of propellant and prepolymer. The propellant is a propellant, under the influence of which the prepolymer comes out and polymerizes (hardens), forming a dense layer of polyurethane foam.

The rate of polymerization directly depends on the humidity of the environment. To accelerate the hardening before filling, the surface to be treated is moistened with water. Complete hardening of the foam occurs within 8 hours. The composition is waterproof, but does not tolerate ultraviolet rays, therefore, in order to eliminate the consequences in the form of destruction or blackening, the frozen layer is covered from the sun with plaster, paint or PVC panels.

Classification

Mounting foams are classified according to two parameters: temperature of use and purpose.

According to the temperature of use, summer, winter and all-weather are distinguished.

For summer, the recommended temperature of the treated surface is from 5 to 35 °C. Winter allows you not to turn off the scope of work to -18 ° С. All-weather is universal, it has the widest range of operating temperatures - from -10 to 30 ° C.

Information for use is provided by the manufacturer on the label.

By appointment, mounting foams are divided into professional and household (semi-professional).

Professional ones are used when carrying out serious and large-scale work - installing PVC windows, doors. They require the use of a special gun, which is attached to the cylinder with a valve. The gun is needed for a more accurate dosage. After use, be sure to clean the gun.

Household polyurethane foams do not require additional devices. The gun replaces the adapter tube included in the kit. Semi-professional compositions are suitable for a small amount of work - foaming cracks or cracks, joints between the bathroom and the wall

An important property of polyurethane foam is fire resistance. On aerosols, special designations are applied - B1, B2, B3, which indicate the degree of fire resistance. Categories B1 are fire-resistant compositions, B2 are self-extinguishing, B3 are combustible. Refractory are more widely used. They are used in the construction of fireplaces, stoves and baths.

Read also: composition, rules of use

Characteristics

When working with foam, consider the following properties:

• primary extension. Coming out of the cylinder, the foam increases in volume.
• secondary expansion. An increase in volume that occurs between initial expansion and complete solidification. Due to primary and secondary expansions, it is recommended to fill the empty space by 1/3 of its size.

The rest of the space will be filled by the foam itself.

• Adhesion is the ability of the foam to adhere to the treated surface. As a bonding material, it is in contact with the metal bath, plastic windows, glass and wooden products. Exceptions: silicone, teflon, polyethylene, polypropylene and oil.
• Output volume. The total volume formed after the final solidification is called the output volume. A standard bottle (750 ml), depending on the brand, has an output volume of 45 to 90 liters.
• Viscosity. This is an indicator of the quality of the composition. Good foam should not spread over the treated surface. First of all, viscosity is important for mounting foam for PVC windows and for gluing a bathtub, because the joint is filled along a vertical surface.

Choice

Quality products meet the following requirements:

• balloon weight - 850-920 grams (for 750 ml);
• high viscosity;
• low secondary expansion;
• high density after solidification.

The choice problem is that specifications remain on paper - in fact, the quality often leaves much to be desired. On the shelves of shops you will find at least a few mounting foams that do not meet the standards. It happens that the composition uses gases that destroy the ozone layer. The actual weight of the cylinder may not correspond to the specified net weight. Sellers do not hesitate to sell expired products.

General Buyer Preference Chart

The main criterion for the quality of mounting foam in the performance of work is its reputation in the market. It is difficult for an uninformed buyer to make the right choice. This is where the experience of others comes in. Today, the sealant market is represented by dozens of foreign and domestic companies. Moment, Macroflex, Well, Penosil, Soudal, Dr. Shenk - this is just the tip of the iceberg. So which mounting foam is better? The most popular among consumers are two companies: Soudal and Penosil.

soudal

Soudal is a large company engaged in the production of sealants. It has been on the market for about 50 years. The production of polyurethane foams is the core business of the company. Soudal produces all types of foams, and the products are characterized by low secondary expansion, good viscosity.

A large output volume (65 l) allows Soudal to be used for heat and sound insulation of the bath, insulation of the attic. It is waterproof, dense and has no unpleasant odors. The average cost of Soudal professional polyurethane foam is 300 rubles, while the average market price is 250 rubles (750 ml).

Penosil

Penosil is based in Estonia. This is the youngest company producing polyurethane foams, operating on the market for 18 years. Engaged in the production of sealants, adhesives, cleaners and building materials. Like Soudal, Penosil manufactures its products for all types of work: winter, summer, all-weather, professional, household and fire resistant. It has good adhesion, suitable for installing PVC windows, joints between tiles and bathrooms, sealing cracks. The difference lies in the cost of production - the price of the Standard line is lower. The average cost of Penosil professional polyurethane foam is 285 rubles (750 ml).

Moment

Among domestic manufacturers, Moment brand foam is in high demand. It is sold in a 750 ml aerosol and is intended for the installation of sound and heat insulation materials, PVC windows, doors, sealing gaps and cracks.

Compared to Soudal and Penosil, Moment has more modest characteristics. The maximum output for this brand is 45 liters, while for Soudal and Penosil it reaches 65 liters. The density of polyurethane foam Moment (750 ml) is no more than 28 kg / m³ against 35 from Soudal.

Conclusion

The construction market boasts a wide range of materials. Despite the large selection, the quality of individual products upsets consumers. When choosing mounting foam, build on its reputation. A high price should not be a deterrent. A quality product is expensive. Consumer experience shows that it is worth trusting the brands Soudal and Penosil.

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