Spray foam insulation on a wooden threshold

jh covert: you are probably correct. but even though it sounds counter intuitive, the open cell may be better in case water invades from other places not related to the foam but then has a chance to dry or go someplace to escape. i never use these foams on the envelope of a building as i am afraid of trapping water behind say a piece of wood and causing the wood to rot.

stevecym

in General Discussion 6 years ago

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Guest User | 6 years ago

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Hey, I’m looking to improve an older building’s insulation. Hoping someone has had experience with spray foam insulation. I’m looking for something that sits well under a wooden saddle (threshold) and is water resistant. Preferably waterproof. My main concern is that the foam may warp the wood. Thanks.

daveinbedstuy | 6 years ago

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Spray foam comes in different densities and expandabilities. You can accomplish this with a can of minimally expanding foam. It all hardens and sets up very quickly anyway.

Guest User | 6 years ago

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Thanks Dave. That’s helpful. Would you know anything about applying spray foam as an injection? Since the area is enclosed on four sides I plan on drilling in to apply it.

Do you have any idea what type of waterproof
foam is most suited to curing given the lack of airflow?

stevecym | 6 years ago

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matt, i don’t want to cut into dave’s conversation as he knows what he is talking about but first, that stuff seems to cure anywhere once it is out of the can. but this is my comment about this – is this saddle underneath an overhang or porch? i am always reluctant to use that stuff outside on the front of houses as i worry that if water gets in and around it, it will become trapped and that will cause other problems, especially with wood.

you can drill some holes to put it in and fill or plug them. the stuff is really great for sealing all sorts of cavities.

Guest User | 6 years ago

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I’ve always been told that closed cell foam works as a water barrier, while open cell foam will allow water to invade. Perhaps someone with more knowledge can confirm or correct this assertion.