As spray foam contractors continue to transition from HFC to HFO blowing agents, there’s a lot to be excited about. HFO-based foams offer a lower global warming potential, higher yield, improved R-value, and excellent performance across a wide range of conditions. But as with any change in materials, there’s a bit of a learning curve—and even seasoned applicators can run into challenges when adapting to the nuances of spraying HFO systems.
At Accufoam, our mission is to help contractors succeed in the field, whether it’s through product innovation or practical, hands-on support. If you’re working with HFO foam for the first time—or even if you’ve already sprayed a few sets—here are some of the most common pitfalls we see and tips to help you avoid them.
Spray Settings: Get Them Right from the Start
One of the biggest adjustments when working with HFO foam is dialing in your rig settings. HFO formulations often require slightly different temperature and pressure ranges than HFC foams. Spraying too cold, too hot, or at the wrong pressure can compromise everything from yield to adhesion to the finished appearance of your foam.
Before you start spraying, double-check that your drum temperatures are within the recommended range—usually between 70–80°F—and that your hose heat is properly set. Don’t just “set it and forget it.” Environmental conditions, material storage, and jobsite setup can all influence the ideal spray parameters. When in doubt, refer to the manufacturer’s technical data sheet or reach out to our team for real-time guidance.
Ensure Proper Substrate Preparation
Proper surface preparation is a critical factor in the performance of any spray foam application—and with HFO foam, it remains important. Because of its fast-reacting nature and superior expansion characteristics, HFO foam demands a solid, stable surface to adhere to. Spraying over dust, oil, moisture, or even loosely attached debris can prevent the foam from bonding properly, leading to issues like separation or curling over time. Before you begin spraying, make sure the substrate is clean, dry, and within the manufacturer’s recommended temperature range. Taking a few extra minutes to inspect and prep the area can save hours of headaches later and ensure your foam performs exactly as designed.
Keep Your Gun and Equipment in Top Shape
Spraying high-performance foam demands high-performing equipment, and the same remains true for HFO foams. Always be on the lookout for dirty guns, clogged mix chambers, or incorrect component ratios. If you’re experiencing off-ratio foam, inconsistent spray patterns, or adhesion issues, your equipment is often the first place to look.
Make daily equipment checks and maintenance part of your routine. Clean the gun thoroughly as needed, check for buildup in the mix chamber, and make sure all filters and screens are clear. Preventive maintenance helps you avoid downtime and ensures that every spray pass is clean, even, and on-ratio.
Understand How the Environment Impacts Performance
Jobsite conditions can affect any spray foam system, including HFO foams. Spraying in extreme heat, cold, or moisture-heavy environments without adjusting your process can lead to issues like inconsistent cell structure or improper curing. Additionally, HFO foams from Accufoam come in two different formulas for application: regular and winter blend; however, even with these separate formulas, Accufoam’s HFO foams have wide application parameters. Ensuring the use of high-quality foam in conjunction with the proper formulation for the proper application season can help alleviate many of the problems that contractors experience in the field.
Before spraying, assess the jobsite conditions and adjust your setup as needed. On hot days, you may need to lower your hose heat; in cold environments, you may need to warm drums more aggressively. Keeping your application in tune with the environment helps ensure reliable, repeatable performance, regardless of the weather.
Don’t Go It Alone—Use the Resources Available
Finally, one of the most common pitfalls we see is contractors trying to figure everything out on their own. Switching to HFO doesn’t have to be difficult, especially with the right support system in place. At Accufoam, we offer detailed, technical information and direct access to our experienced support team.
Whether you have a quick question about pressure settings or need help troubleshooting a jobsite challenge, our team is here to help. You don’t have to guess—we’ve got your back.
Make the Most of HFO with Accufoam
HFO foam represents the future of spray polyurethane insulation—and with the right application techniques, it can be one of the most efficient and profitable systems you’ll ever use. By staying mindful of key differences in setup, prep, and environment, you can avoid the most common mistakes and deliver top-tier results on every project.
Ready to elevate your game with Accufoam HFO? Reach out to our team for product recommendations, on-site support, and everything you need to spray with confidence.
