Polyurethane Vs. Icynene: What’s the Difference?

About Icynene

Here at Mass Foam System’s we use Icynene® spray foam insulation. We’re the UK’s leading Icynene® contractors and combined, our team has more than 10 years’ experience. We believe in using this non-toxic water-blown spray foam insulation as it’s more environmentally friendly and doesn’t contain any harmful gasses or synthetic blowing agents.

Polyurethane foam has been used for decades, but the structure and its application is unlike Icynene® foam. If you’re unsure of the differences, we’ve highlighted the main ones below to help:

 

Icynene® is environmentally friendly

Although there are greener versions of polyurethane foam, it is based on petroleum byproducts. The green versions are partly made using soy products and contain less HCFC and CFC gases, however all types of sprayed polyurethane foam do contain closed cells. These closed cells are filled with HCFC or CFC gases. Due to its composition, if burned polyurethane foam can emit toxic fumes.

Icynene® foam is based on castor oil and the cells are open so no gases are trapped inside them. It contains 99% pure air and has been independently tested per ISO 16000-9. Icynene® spray foam insulation is also made from recycled content and makes homes more sustainable.

 

Polyurethane foam has an odour

As Polyurethane foam is petroleum based it does emit a slight odour, which can be off putting to some over a long period. Prolonged exposure to this can also make you unwell.  Icynene® foam does not have a smell unless applied incorrectly, however here at Mass Foam Systems we have a 100% satisfaction rate and are experts in Icynene® spray foam application.

 

Icynene® is more versatile

One of the main benefits of Icynene® is that it can be sprayed in damp conditions if required. It’s also more versatile so unlike polyurethane foam, which can be rigid, it can be both sprayed and poured. This means there is the opportunity for Icynene® to reach areas which would otherwise be difficult to insulate.

There are so many advantages to using Icynene®, from minimising pollutants and preventing mould growth to reducing noise and drafts. It’s also a great eco-friendly option and is becoming more and more popular – Icynene® spray foam insulation has even featured on Grand Designs!

If you would like to learn more about Icynene® and Mass Foam Systems, get in touch with our team who will be more than happy to offer advice, provide information or give you an instant quote. You can call us on 0800 246 5051 or get your quote here.

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