GMS Insulations Ltd explains what spray foam insulation is and how to ensure your installation delivers.
Spray foam insulation has been on the market for over 60 years and is the most effective form of insulation, providing a lifetime of insulation and airtightness for the comfort and longevity of your property.
However, spray foam insulation in the UK has received a lot of negative reviews in various media. In addition to this, some lenders have stopped lending on properties with spray foam installed due to a lack of understanding of the products used and a lack of availability of paperwork for the installation.
Since 2004, GMS Insulations Ltd has completed around 150,000 spray foam applications in the UK and Ireland with almost no issues.
Fortunately this situation is beginning to ease as surveyors and lenders learn the difference between open and closed cell foam, and paperwork and installation inspections are now available
There is also now plenty of advice, information and support available from manufacturers, distributors and The Insulation Manufacturers’ Association (IMA).
The Problem
The problems that arose with spray foam was as a result of shoddy operators applying non breathable closed cell foams directly to the underside of slates and tiles as a waterproofing and roof stabilisation solution.
The problem was that these roofs were already failing and were in no condition to receive spray foam and this resulted in the trapping of moisture which expediated the failure of the roof. Unfortunately the media, lenders and a number of property associations has taken a blanket approach to spray foam in general and have ignored the huge numbers of foams properly applied to roof membranes and felts the majority of which is open cell.
Do note that this issue of applying closed cell foams to failing roofs is only applicable in mainland UK as these applications have not taken place in Ireland or Northern Ireland, where the vast majority of applications are open cell foams safely applied to roof membranes and felts.
About GMS Insulations Ltd
Formed in 2004 GMS Insulations Ltd, a family-owned business, has a long successful history in the distribution of spray foam insulation products. GMS Insulations Ltd is now sole distributor for the Elastochem range of products from Canada (elastochem.ie and elastochem.co.uk).
Like Elastochem, being a family-run business means trust and integrity are at the heart of everything GMS Insulations Ltd does. “We’re not just here to provide products; we’re here to build lasting relationships with our customers,” says managing director Gerry Sheridan.
“Count on us for personalised support and service every step of the way. With over 150,000 applications you are in safe hands with GMS. Elastochem has been making, distributing and selling quality products to their worldwide customer base and beyond since 1987.”
The GMS Insulations Ltd product range includes open cell spray foam insulation which was specifically developed for residential properties and this breathable product allows all your building materials, including timber, to breathe naturally.
“Our product range is a superior insulation delivering up to 50 per cent more energy efficiency due to its ability to fit all shapes and sizes and its excellent air sealing properties,” adds Gerry.
The open cell product which is fully KIWA BDA Agrement certified to building regulations is suitable for wall drylining, sloping and flat roofs and raised timber floors and comes with a 25 year guarantee.
In addition to spray foam, GMS also distributes a range of polyurea and silicone waterproof coating products for roofs, and wall waterproofing including asbestos encapsulation
