Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams will, when ignited, burn rapidly and produce intense heat, dense smoke and gases which are irritating, flammable and/or toxic. As with other organic materials the most significant gas is usually carbon monoxide.
Yes, foam board insulation is flammable.
In fact, thanks to its fire-resistant properties, GPS in certain low-density formulations is even allowed to be used as an interior finish without even a thermal barrier in the USA (in Canada, a thermal barrier is required).
Foam insulation materials, particularly those of the spray-applied variety, are known for their high flammability. They can catch fire at temperatures much lower than other common building materials, making them a potential fire hazard.
Avoid plastic foam insulation, whether board or spray-applied. Foam insulations commonly contain toxic flame retardants, and spray foam contains asthma-causing isocyanates. These products are also petroleum-based and can have significant impacts on communities throughout the manufacturing process.
Spray foam insulation, and the compounds that combine to create it are hazardous. Without proper PPE or ventilation, spray foam insulation can harm installers and future occupants. After application, spray foam insulation releases harmful VOCs.
Spray foam insulation is a good insulator in terms of keeping a room warm or cool. But its many downsides outweigh the benefits. These include, making it more difficult getting a mortgage, potential health issues, environmental damage, ventilation issues and a lower home valuation.
Foam Board Insulation: Can be left exposed for 30-60 days but should be covered to protect from UV rays and physical damage. Fiberglass Insulation: Should be covered as soon as possible to avoid health and safety risks.
Cons of a Foamboard
Foamboards can get discolored, disintegrated or warped if left under the sun or rain. It can be used for a short outdoor event and not as a permanent outdoor display. Also keep it away from your bathroom or kitchen as steam can create moisture, affecting the foamboard.
ROCKWOOL insulation is made from non-combustible fire-resistant stone wool that can withstand temperatures above 1,000°C1. This helps limit the spread of fire in a building. With minimal organic content, no significant toxic smoke is produced either.
The heat resistance of rigid foams will range from about 110°F (43°C) to 125°F (52°C). There are variables that will affect the heat resistance of a foam casting: Higher density foams, such as FOAM-iT! 26, will have higher heat resistance than lower density foams, such as FOAM-iT!
Foam works in the following ways: The foam blankets the fuel surface smothering the fire. The foam blanket separates the flames/ignition source from the fuel surface. The foam cools the fuel and any adjacent metal surfaces.
Insulating materials may have an adverse health effect when they are handled or exposed to fire. Fires in insulation materials can result in the release of toxic gases and smoke, which can be fatal if present in sufficient quantities. Smoke can create problems for occupants trying to evacuate the fire area.
Combustible materials are organic materials that could eventually catch fire if exposed to flame. Plastic foam, cellulose, and wood are all examples of flammable materials. They are also all common building materials. Incombustible materials do not burn if exposed to fire.
One common question is about the fire rating of spray foam. Our answer: “Our products have a class 1 hour fire rating.” Let's address this question directly: Yes, spray foam, like all foam plastic materials, is combustible but the wood your home is built from will burn more readily then our foam.
Fully fireproof insulation is not possible, and fire-resistant or fire-rated is a more accurate term in most cases. There are a wide variety of insulation options that will not combust, and that can withstand high temperatures. Preventing the passage of smoke and flames is also important.
The graphite in these foam boards reflects radiant heat, complementing the foam air bubbles' ability to block conductive heat. This unique function gives them a relatively high initial R-value of 4.7 per inch.
Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foams will, when ignited, burn rapidly and produce intense heat, dense smoke and gases which are irritating, flammable and/or toxic. As with other organic materials the most significant gas is usually carbon monoxide.
Among their other characteristics is the role they can play in fire safety. In particular, non-combustible insulation gives peace of mind for specifiers and building owners alike. FOAMGLAS® cellular glass insulation does not burn and does not contribute to fire spread.
Cellulose. The most flammable insulation material is cellulose. This commonly used environmentally-friendly insulation is made of up to 80 percent recycled paper fiber.
Other advancements involve using special coatings or barriers that expand during heat exposure, creating a protective layer that slows fire progression. These technologies have significantly improved the safety of rigid foam insulation, making it a reliable choice for homeowners when installed correctly.
The finished product of spray foam insulation is safe if it was installed correctly. The only hazards or risks it can pose are during the application process when the chemical reaction happens. The residents are not there during that process, and the contractors wear personal protective equipment for safety.
Benefits of Industrial Foam Board Insulation
For applications ranging from -40ºF to 2300ºF. Closed-cell infrastructure for ultimate industrial board insulation. Strength, durability and vapor resistance. Non-combustible.
There are also fire hazards associated with exposed insulation, such as: Increased risk of ignition and rapid flame spread. Impact on home safety and evacuation procedures.
That said, it's still advisable to cover any foam board insulation exposed to the Sun within 30-60 days at the most.