Polyurethane foam instead of caulking: is it possible to foam a bath with polyurethane foam

Wooden buildings (between logs, beams) have been caulked with moss, tow, flax or jute from time immemorial. The sealed seams can be decorated with jute tape or cord.

These natural materials retain heat well and will not hinder air exchange. There are also disadvantages:

• Long work that takes a lot of time and effort
• If everything is not done correctly, then the birds will pull out the insulation or it will deform when it shrinks.
• Caulking must be done several times. After shrinkage, the structure must be caulked again. After 3-5 years, you need to do the work again.

There are more modern ways: insulate with polyurethane, silicone sealant or polyurethane foam.

The silicone sealant option is questionable. Wood absorbs moisture and evaporates it. The sealant will prevent evaporation. The tree will start to rot.

The silicone sealant is 100% waterproof and has a lifespan of 10 years longer than the acrylic and silicone counterparts.

Polyurethane foam instead of tow

Another way to insulate is with polyurethane foam. Is foam suitable instead of caulking or not?

Cracks and gaps between logs or beams are foamed with polyurethane foam. This is very simple and easy to do. You don't need to use a chisel and hammer.

The foam is resistant to moisture, has high sound / heat insulating properties. It tightly fills all small cracks, voids. There is fire retardant polyurethane foam that does not support combustion.

You don't need to hire specialists. The work can be done quickly by yourself.

But foam also has disadvantages:

1. Non-elastic material. When moving, shrinkage of logs, beams can form small cracks, cracks.
2. It is impossible to close up the cracks inside the bath. When heated, foam releases harmful substances (toxins).
3. The foam does not allow air to pass through, and the tree breathes. Therefore, moisture can accumulate and, as a result, the tree can begin to deteriorate, rot.
4. The most important disadvantage: Foam breaks down when exposed to sunlight.

But some believe that the foam can be used only if it is covered with a finishing material. Uncovered foam turns to stone and begins to crumble over time.

Cutting off the foam is not recommended. As its properties change, it becomes like a sponge. It is better to crumple excess polyurethane foam by hand after 20 minutes. after foaming.

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