Hybrid Solutions with the Magnum Heated System

 

Skyrocketing energy costs have been increasingly affecting all facets of construction for the past five years. Whether it is distribution and travel costs or utility costs at a manufacturing plant, the entire industry is feeling the pinch. Energy expenses alone are creating huge spikes in the cost to build a new home, putting increased pressure on contractors. The price of all raw materials, not just petroleum, is having a negative affect on the construction market. 

 

As energy issues continue to escalate, home buyers are becoming well-educated in the composition of their homes, and they’re looking for more ways to save energy and reduce utility costs. According to a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), home buyers are willing to spend additional costs upfront on a home if means cutting utility bills in the future. As more and more end-users are becoming aware of spray foam insulation and its energy-efficient benefits, the spray foam industry is adapting to the consumers’ growing needs and wants.

 

On a cost scale, traditional fiberglass insulation is undoubtedly one of the most inexpensive and popular options. Although fiberglass insulation creates a significant R-value and is a suitable solution, the facts still stand – it does not prevent air infiltration and does not control moisture vapor drives, which are, of course, both addressed with polyurethane foam insulation methods.

 

In the spirit of the era in which we live, hybrid insulation systems are becoming the insulation system of choice. Many builders and contractors are utlizing this system that combines the air barrier benefits of polyurethane foam and the economical R-value of traditional fiberglass or cellulose insulation. 

The hybrid solution, also known as “flash and batt”, consists of a flash of spray foam in wall cavities combined with a batt of fiberglass insulation. A spray of ½ to 2 inches of polyurethane foam creates an air barrier to lock out pollutants and moisture. The foam maximizes the effectiveness of traditional insulation, which is laid on top of the flash of foam. Contractors can feature the hybrid solution as an alternative option for insulation, combining energy- and cost-efficiency. Although the initial investment of a hybrid solution is slightly more than traditional insulation methods, over time, the hybrid solution will saving substantial energy costs.

 

Fomo Products, Inc. has introduced a system that alleviates many of the challenges builders face when installing hybrid insulation. The Magnum™ Heated System offers numerous benefits when it comes to a hybrid insulation job, and while it’s not intended to replace a high-pressure system, it is designed to fill a void in a spray foam installer’s toolbox.

 

Magnum™ is a low-pressure heated hose system with refillable tanks that produces the same type of two-component foam as a high-pressure system (i.e. closed-cell Class 1 insulation spray foam). A low-pressure system can solve many of the obstacles and challenges that spray foam installers frequently incur, including cost, portability, foam thickness, safety, training and time restraints 

 

The Cost of Admission

One of the great benefits of a low-pressure system is the low entry cost and minimal maintenance expenses. The initial investment for a low-pressure system is significantly less than a high-pressure system, with an average difference of more than $20,000.   

 

Portable and Practical

A low-pressure system is simple to transport and offers attached hoses that span up to 200 feet. Not only can the system be transported from one location to the next, but it can also move fairly easily throughout a construction site. In addition, there are no pumps or motors, and the Magnum™ unit only requires a 120V outlet.

 

Customized Products

This type of system has a wide range of options available, so an installer can easily pick and choose which attachments to use, including dispensing with a high output or standard Handi-Gun and several hose options. Additionally, the quick-change fan and cone nozzles can be swapped out in a matter of seconds

 

Complete Control

Depending on the manufacturer, a low-pressure system often offers more control in terms of spray thickness, making it easier to achieve the standard ½ inch spray bead needed for hybrid applications. If the foam is sprayed on too thick, the cellulose or fiberglass insulation might not fit in the wall cavity, causing excess.

 

Timing is Everything

High-pressure systems are a great solutions for intense, large jobs; however, it is well-known that these systems take an ample of time to setup and tear down (approximately 1 hour for each), and other on-site workers, like plumbing and electrical contractors, have to vacate the construction site while the rig is in use and for an additional 24 hours after the foam is sprayed. Safety precautions with a high-pressure system are much higher and more complex than with a low-pressure system. With a low-pressure system, there is less worry about workers breathing in chemicals while the foam is curing. This allows another installer to work nearly immediately after the foam is sprayed. When using a low-pressure system, setup and teardown takes just minutes, and other tradesmen on the construction site can work in tandem because a low-pressure system dispenses foam in a controlled area.

 

Simple and Comprehensive Training

Another feature of using a low-pressure system is the ability to quickly train new workers.  Be sure to select a manufacturer that will work on this with you.  Fomo, for example, offers a simple, comprehensive one-day training program that will prepare first-time installers. Be sure to check with local codes to determine the R-value needed when applying insulation.  Also, verify whether fiberglass insulation should be kraft or non-kraft, which will depend on vapor barrier requirements from local codes.  Review the codes for the vapor retarder.  Dew point concerns vary by region and impacts choice for foam thickness.

 

This information is provided as a service, and is not necessarily meant to reflect any recommendation, guideline or position of Fomo Products, Inc.  Each individual user must determine product suitability for any particular purpose.