Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid with Expanding Foam Tape

Expanding foam tape has quickly become the preferred sealant for professionals. As a clean and efficient sealing solution well known for its ability to enhance airtightness, thermal insulation, and water resistance, it is a crucial tool for numerous construction and renovation projects.

However, to maximise its benefits, proper installation is key.

1. Choosing the wrong size for your gap

One of the most frequent mistakes is selecting the incorrect tape size for the job. Expanding foam tapes are designed to fit specific joint depths. Using the incorrect size can undermine the effectiveness of the product.

Always measure joint tolerances accurately before purchasing. This ensures the tape fits perfectly, providing optimal sealing performance. You can find our size chart within our brochure which will show the tested and maximum ranges for each size of tape. Still unsure? Please contact us, our friendly staff are available to help.

2. Poor storage conditions

Improper storage or handling of expanding foam tape can significantly degrade its performance. Exposure to moisture, extreme heat, or UV light before installation can compromise the tape’s integrity. To maintain its quality, it’s essential to store the tape correctly.

Always keep the tape in its original packaging until it is needed. This will protect it from typical environmental factors. The recommended storage temperature is between 1°C - 25°C, with a shelf life of 2 years.

3. Inadequate surface preparation

For expanding foam tape to adhere properly, the surface must be clean, dry, and free of dust. Common issues such as grease or concrete dust can interfere with bonding, leading to a less effective seal.

Make sure any areas of application are cleaned thoroughly.

A clean application should be sufficient to aid the bonding of our foam tape, especially as compression will also be a key factor, however, if you have any doubts or worries about your particular project parameters or with the substrate you are bonding to, please get in touch.

4. Incorrect application conditions

The conditions in which the tape is applied can greatly affect its performance. Each tape has a specific temperature range for optimal expansion and curing. Applying the tape outside of these conditions can result in subpar performance.

In cooler conditions it will take longer for the foam to expand, in this instance, warming the foam can be useful to help speed up the expansion process.

In the summer months (hotter days) it will, of course, expand at a faster rate. In these conditions we recommend storing the foam in a cool area (possibly even a cool box or fridge for example) to aid in a more controlled installation and also to prevent unwanted expansion in the pack.

Once the roll has been opened the foam will begin to expand.

5. Misreading the application time

A common misconception is that the tape is fully sealed immediately after placement. In reality, full expansion can vary dramatically from around 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the conditions and temperatures. Rushing this process can lead to incomplete sealing.

Allow the tape the necessary time to expand fully. Familiarise yourself with typical expansion rates and timeframes to ensure proper installation.

Conclusion

Proper installation of expanding foam tape is essential to ensure its long-term performance and durability. This innovative sealing solution is widely used for a variety of applications, including weatherproofing, soundproofing, and thermal insulation. However, to maximise its effectiveness, it’s important to follow best practices during installation and avoid common pitfalls.

Mistakes such as improper surface preparation, incorrect tape sizing, or failing to account for the tape’s expansion properties can compromise its performance. By taking the time to understand the material and its application process, professionals can ensure their projects achieve optimal results, leveraging the full potential of expanding foam tape for reliable and lasting seals.