Foam roofing has surged in popularity over the last few years. As a dependable and energy-efficient roofing material, foam roofing has become one of the top choices for flat roofs on both residential and commercial buildings. 

If you’re considering a foam roof for your home or business, you should spend some time getting familiar with the material so you can decide if it is right for you. That’s why our team at Capstone Roofing has put together this list of foam roof pros and cons. If you have any further questions about foam roofing, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team online or by calling us at (602) 486-0763. We are happy to help answer your questions and talk more about foam roof pros and cons!

What is foam roofing?

Before we get into foam roof pros and cons, it’s important to understand exactly what foam roofing is. Foam roofing consists of spray polyurethane foam and an elastomeric coating. There are usually many layers of a foam roof, including the spray foam, base coat, top coat (which is often reflective), and a layer of optional granules at the top. There are two main types of spray foam: open-cell and closed-cell. Open-cell foam is typically only used for internal foam insulation. For foam roof applications, roofers use closed-cell foam because of its greater density and better protection against air and water penetration. 

Foam roofing must be created and installed on-site. The chemicals are mixed together on-site before being sprayed over the existing roof deck or underlayment. Once the spray is applied to the surface, the liquid expands 20 to 30 times its original size (typically 1 to 1.5 inches) to form a dense foam layer. Finally, the roofers will apply one or more silicone or elastomeric roof coatings to protect the roof from UV radiation, fire, and other elements. 

Foam Roof Pros and Cons

There are many things to love about foam roofing. However, as with any roofing material, foam roofing also has its drawbacks. As someone who is looking into a new roofing option, you should be familiar with both the pros and cons of foam roofing so you can make the best choice for your new roof. 

Pros of Foam Roofs

There are many benefits to foam roofs, which makes them a popular choice for commercial offices and buildings with flat or low-sloping roofs. Here are some of the best qualities of foam roofs.

• Energy Efficient. Spray foam roofing has excellent thermal resistance, meaning it keeps atmospheric temperatures out so that internal temperatures are more consistent. This is one reason why homeowners often use spray foam to insulate walls and attics. With a more consistent internal temperature, you can save on your electricity bill by using less air conditioning and heating throughout the seasons. 
• Waterproof. Spray foam roofs are installed in one continuous layer, making them seamless (as opposed to other roof materials, like tile and shingle). With no nooks or crannies for water to seep in, foam roofing has excellent waterproof qualities. Additionally, most foam roofs use closed-cell foam, which is efficient at resisting water absorption. And when it’s installed correctly, foam roofs can prevent standing water, which is a common issue on flat roofs. 
• Easy Installation. Spray foam roofs begin as a liquid mixture that conforms to all irregularities in a roof. This makes it ideal not only for flat roofs, but also for pitched, domed, and low-sloped roofs. You can also install foam over existing roof materials like shingles. Although there are some DIY spray foam kits available, we recommend letting the professionals install your foam roof so you can enjoy all the benefits of this material. 
• Durable. With regular maintenance, foam roofs can last up to 20 years. But even if your roof is approaching its 20-year mark, you may not have to replace the entire roof. Instead, you can extend its lifespan by installing a simple recoat, which costs around 25% of the original installation. 
• Lightweight. Spray foom roofs weigh as little as a quarter of a pound per square foot. This means that foam roofing will put very minimal demand on your structure. Spray foam can help your roof stay below minimum weight standards, which can sometimes pose a challenge for older buildings that must bear the weight of heavy snow.

Cons of Foam Roofs

Despite its many benefits, there are still some drawbacks to foam roofs. Be aware of these drawbacks so you can make an informed decision about your new roof. 

• Requires the Right Conditions. In order to properly adhere to a roof, the existing surface must be clean. This means removing dirt, dust, oil, and other contaminants, which can be a lengthy process. Additionally, the installation must take place on a warm, dry day. Spray foam will not stick to a roof if the conditions are wet, cold, or icy. If you experience harsh winters or weather conditions, you may want to opt for a roofing material that can be replaced at any time of year, not just during warn and dry months. 
• Frequent Maintenance. Although they can last many years, foam roofs can still take a beating from debris, harsh weather, and even birds or other wildlife. If damage isn’t fixed right away, UV radiation will worsen the damage, which can create pits for water to pool. This can lead to leaks, sagging, and rot. Be sure to have a roofing company inspect your roof at least twice a year. 
• Potential Hazards. Spray foam is considered safe after it settles, but it can emit toxic fumes during installation and curing. And if your building isn’t properly ventilated, these fumes can linger and pose potential health hazards. 
• Potential Overspray. Because foam installation requires the materials to be sprayed, there is a chance that droplets can stray from the roof and land on the surrounding property. Be sure to remove items, use tarps, and empty the parking lot before having your foam roof installed. 
• Requires Professional Installation. A foam roof will only perform as well as its installation. In this case, long-lasting protection requires precision during the installation. Always hire a professional roofer to install your foam roof to ensure its dependability and protection.

Is foam roofing right for your home or office?

Foam roofing is ideal for flat or low-sloping roofs and can be applied to both commercial and residential buildings. This material offers durability, easy installation, energy efficiency, and a long lifespan when properly cared for. But like any roofing project, having the right professionals to do the job is key. With the right installation and maintenance, your roof will be dependable and long-lived. 

Although it is possible to install spray foam roofing by yourself, we recommend leaving this to a professional roofing company that has years of experience with foam roof installations. Only professionals have the right tools, knowledge, and expertise to properly install your foam roof. Save yourself time, money, and hassle by letting the professionals install your next foam roof. We also recommend having a roofing company inspect your foam roof at least twice a year to make sure it is in good condition. The better you take care of your foam roof, the longer it will last and the more effective it will be. 

Have questions about foam roof pros and cons? Contact Capstone Roofing! 

We understand that deciding on a new roof is a huge undertaking. Your home or business needs a roof that is dependable, long-lasting, and within budget. Foam roofs are a great option for low-sloping or flat roofs, especially on commercial buildings. If you have any further questions about foam roof pros and cons, feel free to contact us online! Our team at Capstone Roofing is happy to help and even provide a free estimate for your next foam roofing project. 

published on Monday, December 20th, 2021