Spray Can Foam for Flotation?

jarway

Seaman
Joined
Feb 4, 2004
Messages
60
Anyone have any advice about using off-the-shelf expanding foam for flotation in a boat restoration. I had to cut out some old flotation to get into a bilge line and would like to re-fill the compartment. Since it isn't that big, I didn't want to invest in a batch of the 2 part closed cell and was hoping to use something like Liquid Nails, Durafoam, etc. I know some are latex-based and others are polyurethane-based and would think the poly-based would be better. However, I am somewhat concerned about the closed cell properties and afraid about water absorption. Compartment contained styrofoam and closed cell foam as OEM.<br /><br />Any advice would be appreciated. This is an above water compartment and I don't expect much direct water contact.<br /><br />FT
 

Ironside

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Nov 12, 2004
Messages
75
Re: Spray Can Foam for Flotation?

Hello jarway i just redid my boat and did a butload of looking and asking about foam . what are the dimentions you are tring to fill , some of the spray can foam is polyurathane "great stuff is one"at home depot and is closed cell ,atrick to getting aplication and max volume is to warm can in water for 5-10 min just before using , any thing bigger than a couple of square feet and you are better of to get the 2 part foam by the way welcome to Iboats there are allot of great people in here with tons of knowledge se ya
 

jarway

Seaman
Joined
Feb 4, 2004
Messages
60
Re: Spray Can Foam for Flotation?

Thanks G4P,<br />Appreciate the advice on the Great Stuff. The compartment I am re-filling is only a couple of square/cubic feet so I'll probably go with the canned stuff considering your advice. Will also warm the can as suggested to maximize volume.<br /><br />Iboats is a great forum and have learned a lot of great tips that have saved me both time and money from these discussions. Hopefully someday I can add my wisdom and experience to assist others too.<br /><br />JA
 

fishingdan

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Feb 12, 2005
Messages
1,045
Re: Spray Can Foam for Flotation?

Make sure the foam has room to expand. Even the stuff from HD will force apart a compartment if it doesn't have enough room to expand.
 
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