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Is Spray Foam Flammable?

One question we get asked often is whether or not spray foam is flammable. You’ll soon find that the answer isn’t so simple. Let the experts at Foam Bear Tampa fill you in on the fire-resistant properties of spray foam insulation!

Does Fireproof Insulation Exist?

To tell the absolute truth, every type of insulation is technically flammable to some degree. But despite there being no fully fireproof option, some types are still more fire-resistant than others. It’s a good idea to keep this in mind when choosing an insulation company near you for your next home insulation project so you can know exactly what to expect. When in doubt, you can always ask your local licensed contractor!

The Difference Between Fireproof and Fire-Resistant

These two descriptors are constantly thrown around as if they’re interchangeable but knowing the difference between being fireproof and fire-resistant could save you some confusion when it comes to purchasing certain products. Fireproof implies that something is completely impervious to fire no matter the conditions. Fire resistance, on the other hand, is more accurately defined as something that can hold off heat and fire damage for a certain duration.

Class Fire Ratings Explained

Now that you understand that insulation is fire-resistant rather than fireproof, we can move on to class fire ratings. These ratings let you know how well a certain type of insulation can resist heat and flames until it’s prone to becoming flammable and is usually measured by a set amount of time. For example, a “class 1 hour” fire rating means that the insulation can endure up to an hour of a fire hazard. You can always ask your local spray foam contractors about the class fire rating of your spray foam insulation when getting it installed.

Fire-Resistant Spray Foam Insulation

Spray foam insulation has among the best fire resistance out of most other forms of insulation, especially fiberglass. In comparison, some spray foam products are designed to self-extinguish flames in the aftermath of an accident to help lessen the blow, but poor insulation like fiberglass can have a higher chance of exacerbating flames which can prolong the duration of a fire.

What Kind of Spray Foam Is Best?

Closed-cell spray foam has a high-class fire rating to give you more time to evacuate the premises in the case of a spreading fire. While insulation isn’t completely fireproof, every single second counts when it comes to your safety and well-being in the midst of a disaster. Just make sure that you go with the best spray foam company in the area!

Top-Rated Spray Foam Insulation in Tampa

At Foam Bear Tampa, we sell both open-cell and closed-cell spray foam insulation from top brands for your comfort and safety. Call us anytime at (727) 580-1090 to ask about the fire-resistant properties of our spray foam insulation so you can be prepared for anything! Your safety is our top priority and the amount of care and detail that we put into our work is a testament to our values. When you come to us, you’re in good hands!