What Is Expanding Foam? Pro Tips for Effective Use in Construction

Nowadays, as construction quality and execution are increasingly prioritized, supporting materials such as silicone sealants, polyurethane adhesives, and especially expanding foam play a crucial role in ensuring durability, waterproofing, soundproofing, thermal insulation, and extending the lifespan of buildings. Among them, the PU Selfoam expanding foam is the top choice for many contractors and construction engineers in Vietnam. So, what is PU Selfoam expanding foam? Why is it so popular and widely used? Let’s explore in detail with Thuận Thiên Thành in the article below.

1. Introduction to Selfoam Expanding Foam & Usage

1.1 Definition of Expanding Foam

Expanding foam is a specialized construction adhesive developed using polymer technology capable of foaming and expanding upon contact with ambient moisture. Its expanding nature allows the foam to create a porous layer that effectively fills gaps, cracks, and voids between building materials—areas often difficult to access using conventional methods.

1.2 Selfoam Expanding Foam – Premium Product from SelSil Brand

Selfoam expanding foam is a premium Polyurethane (PU Foam) product specifically designed for construction. It is distributed by Thuận Thiên Thành – a leading and reputable supplier of silicone and PU foams in Vietnam. The product fully meets standards for quality, durability, and adaptability in harsh environments.

1.3 How to Use Selfoam Expanding Foam

• Step 1: Clean the application surface, removing dust, grease, or debris in areas to be sealed or filled.
• Step 2: Shake the can vigorously for at least 20–30 seconds before use to ensure even mixing of components.
• Step 3: Attach the nozzle or connect to a foam gun (for gun-grade types).
• Step 4: Gently spray into the gap or target area. Do not overfill, as the foam will expand and completely fill the space after a few minutes.
• Step 5: Allow the foam to expand and surface dry for 10–20 minutes. Full curing occurs within 1–12 hours depending on conditions. If necessary, excess cured foam can be trimmed with a knife.

Note: Wear gloves, mask, and safety goggles during application. Avoid contact with skin or eyes.

Thanks to its smart design, Selfoam expanding foam is easy to use for both professionals and DIY users, saving time and labor during construction.

2. Chemical Properties of Selfoam Expanding Foam

• Main composition: Single-component Polyurethane (PU) with foaming agents and foam stabilizers to enhance sound and thermal insulation properties.
• Expansion reaction: Upon contact with air humidity, the foam reacts immediately to expand, forming a lightweight, hydrophobic foam with uniform cell structure that provides excellent insulation.
• Waterproof & thermal insulation: PU foam forms a closed-cell, water-resistant foam layer with a thermal conductivity coefficient of approximately 0.035 W/m.K. It withstands temperatures from -30°C to +80°C, and up to +100°C temporarily if surface protected.
• After curing, PU foam forms a stable shape with slight elasticity to adhere closely to joints, reducing cracking due to thermal expansion. It is less flexible than silicone sealants.
• Elasticity & flexibility: The foam maintains flexibility with construction materials, reducing cracking and gaps caused by temperature variations.
• Strong adhesion: The foam bonds well with concrete, brick, steel, aluminum, PVC, and wood, except PE, PP, and Teflon surfaces.

3. Outstanding Advantages of Selfoam Expanding Foam

• Superior expansion capability: The product can expand several times its original volume, fully filling even the smallest cracks and voids that are difficult to detect.
• Excellent waterproofing and moisture resistance: Once cured, the foam forms a protective barrier against water, air, and even insect intrusion.
• Heat resistance, UV resistance, non-aging: Offers stable heat resistance. For best outdoor performance, the foam should be painted or coated for UV protection.
• Strong adhesion & solid structure: Enhances bonding between components and prevents shifting or seam gaps.
• Quick application: Simple procedure that helps save time and labor cost.
• Safe and eco-friendly: Free from toxic compounds, low odor, and easy to handle upon contact.
• Versatile: Suitable for doors, door frames, roofing, water pipes, windows, soundproof rooms, and many other construction items.

4. Available Selfoam Expanding Foam Products at Thuận Thiên Thành

To meet diverse construction needs and strict technical standards, Thuận Thiên Thành offers two specialized PU Selfoam expanding foam lines suitable for various construction, repair, and installation projects.

4.1. Selfoam B1 Fire Resistant Foam

Selfoam B1 Fire Resistant Foam is a single-component polyurethane expanding foam that reacts with atmospheric moisture, expands, and cures without external heat. Its biggest strength is its fire-retardant capability, enhancing safety for buildings requiring high fire protection standards.

 

Key Features:

• Certified fire resistance, ideal for areas with stringent fire safety requirements.
• Adheres strongly to most building materials: concrete, brick walls, metal frames, etc.
• Outstanding thermal and sound insulation.
• Comes with pre-attached spray nozzle for easy use.
• Free from CFC and H-CFC gases, safe for users and environmentally friendly.

Practical Applications:

• Sealing gaps between fire-rated doors and walls.
• Cold storage panel installation.
• Filling and sealing pipe penetrations through walls.

4.2. Selfoam Montage Foam

Selfoam Montage Foam is a single-component polyurethane expanding foam designed for effective sealing of joints and gaps in construction and interior installation. Thanks to its excellent soundproofing, thermal insulation, and waterproofing properties, this product is increasingly trusted in both residential and industrial applications.

Montage Foam is available in two convenient types: can with built-in spray nozzle or foam gun type – suitable for both professional builders and DIY users.

Key Features:

• Forms a sealed foam layer, enhancing sound and thermal insulation.
• Single-component, quick application, no mixing required.
• Self-expanding, suitable for deep or narrow gaps.
• Available in both spray nozzle and foam gun types.
• Safe, does not contain harmful H-CFC or CFC gases.

Practical Applications:

• Sealing around doors and frames: Fills gaps between walls and wooden or aluminum frames to ensure tightness.
• Installing insulation panels: Enhances thermal retention for cold storage or cool rooms.
• Soundproofing & waterproofing: Seals leak-prone areas and reduces external noise.

5. Applications of Selfoam Expanding Foam in Construction

Selfoam expanding foam is an indispensable and convenient material for modern construction, widely trusted for its ease of use, flexibility, and long-term performance. With excellent adhesion, uniform expansion, and reliable gap-filling, Selfoam provides optimal solutions for various needs – from installation and maintenance to interior finishing.

Typical applications include:

• Filling gaps, joints, and cracks: Especially effective in areas where walls meet door frames, metal roofs, panel joints, concrete wall cracks, and floor crevices.
• Soundproofing & insulation: Ideal for conference rooms, offices, and studios needing sound control, or houses and factories requiring temperature retention.
• Waterproofing: Seals moisture-prone areas to protect against mold – one of the main causes of rapid deterioration.
• Reinforcing structural joints: Strengthens the bond between panels, bricks, and concrete beams for enhanced stability.
• Multi-material compatibility: Bonds well with concrete, brick, steel, aluminum, plastic, wood, and glass.
• For repairs: Sealing around doors, roof arches, and gaps between older components.

6. How to Properly Store Selfoam Expanding Foam

To maintain the best performance and consistent quality of Selfoam expanding foam, customers and partners should observe the following guidelines:

• Store in a dry, cool place: Avoid high temperatures, direct sunlight, or proximity to heat sources (boilers, stoves, etc.).
• Keep out of reach of children: Ensure absolute safety for family members.
• Seal the cap tightly if not fully used: Prevent exposure to air which may cause drying or loss of expansion properties.
• Avoid contact with moisture or water before use: Moisture may cause premature foaming or degradation.
• Check the expiry date on the product label. Do not use if expired or if the product has unusual color or odor.
• In case of contact with skin/eyes: Immediately rinse with clean water and soap; if in eyes, rinse thoroughly and seek medical attention.

7. Conclusion

Selfoam expanding foam is an effective solution for sealing all gaps, enhancing waterproofing, soundproofing, and thermal insulation for modern construction projects. It is easy to apply, durable, safe, and suitable for various application scenarios. If you need consultation about silicone adhesives, PU Selfoam expanding foam, or want to explore real-world applications, please contact Thuận Thiên Thành for prompt and professional support!

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