How to Use Froth-Pak® Spray Foam Kits in Winter
Cold weather doesn’t automatically mean you can’t use Froth-Pak® spray foam—but it does mean preparation matters more than ever. According to the manufacturer, most winter application issues are not caused by the product itself, but by cold chemicals, cold surfaces, or improper storage.
This guide walks you through what you should do to successfully use Froth-Pak® during winter conditions, following manufacturer-recommended practices.
Why Winter Use Requires Extra Care
Froth-Pak® is a two-component polyurethane foam system. For the foam to mix correctly, expand properly, and cure as intended, the chemicals must be within a specific temperature range. Cold temperatures can slow or prevent the chemical reaction, leading to poor expansion, weak adhesion, or foam that never fully cures.
The good news: these issues are avoidable when manufacturer guidelines are followed.
Start with Proper Storage
Before you ever begin spraying, storage is critical. Froth-Pak® kits should be kept indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. Unheated garages, sheds, or vehicles can expose the chemicals to cold temperatures that affect performance.
The manufacturer advises keeping tanks warm—ideally between 75–85°F, and never allowing them to freeze. Even brief freeze exposure can permanently damage the chemicals, even if the kit appears normal once warmed.
Condition the Tanks Before Spraying
In winter, tank conditioning is one of the most important steps.
Before use, both tanks must be warmed to at least 70°F, with 75–85°F preferred. This temperature should be maintained not just at the start of the job, but throughout the application process. Many users store the tanks indoors for at least 24 hours prior to spraying to ensure even temperature throughout the chemicals.
Once warm, each tank should be shaken vigorously for 1–2 minutes to ensure proper mixing. A short test spray is strongly recommended to confirm even expansion and proper foam consistency before starting the job.
Prepare the Surface Carefully
Even perfectly conditioned tanks cannot overcome poor surface conditions. The manufacturer specifies that all application surfaces must be dry, clean, and above freezing.
Surfaces with frost, ice, condensation, dust, or oil can prevent proper adhesion. Cold materials such as metal, concrete, or masonry may need to be warmed prior to application to improve foam performance.
Apply with Cold-Weather Techniques in Mind
When spraying in winter, slower and thinner is better. Applying foam in thin passes (approximately ½"–1" at a time) allows for proper expansion and curing. Additional layers can be added once the previous pass has cured.
Avoid long breaks during application that allow the tanks or hoses to cool. Keep hoses off frozen floors when possible, and heat the work area if needed—never use open-flame heaters near spray foam products.
Know When to Stop and Re-Condition
If conditions are not right, the foam will tell you. Manufacturer guidance recommends stopping immediately if you notice:
- Poor or uneven expansion
- Dark, oily, or streaked foam
- Foam that remains soft or brittle after curing
If this occurs, allow the tanks to warm back to the recommended temperature and perform another test spray before continuing.
The Manufacturer’s Bottom Line
Froth-Pak® spray foam kits can be used successfully in winter when customers follow manufacturer guidelines:
- Keep tanks warm
- Protect kits from freezing
- Spray only on dry, above-freezing surfaces
- Apply in controlled, thin passes
By following these steps, customers can achieve proper foam expansion, adhesion, and long-term performance—even during colder months.