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Construction Industry/Best tool to scrape off polyurethane

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Expert: - 7/5/2009


Question
I've been remodeling my roof and I filled the interior of my roof with hard polyurethane foam, but I need to scrape off the excess foam from the surface of the horizontal beams. Right now I use a saw to scrape the foam off. I wonder if there are any more efficient automatic/electric/air-powered industrial tools to scrape off this foam. Thanks in advance

Answer
Hello John,

Isn't that expanding foam a great product???  I use it frequently to fill openings and as an insulation.

For small areas I use a utility knife to cut away any surplus.  Some times a saw works but it needs room to move and cut.  Then too, for large areas you may want a large knife - even a machete might work!  Just make sure it is very sharp.

I have watched professional insulators use a hot wire to level areas between studs.  I rather doubt that the hot wire device is available from tool stores.  You may be able to rig one up.

Check the internet - "Polyfoam" - and inquire.  Some manufacturer may have the ideal solution.

If the foam is in your attic, does it really matter if it is above the ceiling joist?  Unless you are planning a floor in your attic, the surplus foam shouldn't be a problem.  It does provide added  insulation.  

I fully understand your wanting it to look neat and professional.  The Engineer in me prefers that also!

Hope this has been helpful.

Roger

Construction Industry

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Roger Zona

Expertise

I am experienced in all types of construction: residential, industrial and commercial; single family, multi-family, mid-rise and high rise buildings (16 story office building) as well as remodeling, additions and tenant improvements. I can field most any question that relates to general construction. I have consulted with infrastructure (utility) contractors also and have a good general knowledge of underground utility construction for subdivisions and commercial projects.

Experience

After college, I began my career in the construction industry. I chose to become an apprentice Architect and 4 yrs later I opened my own architectural design firm. Six years later I moved to Florida to buy & develop land and build. I became a State of Florida Certified General Contractor and operated my business for 45 years. I built all types of residential and commercial buildings including warehouses, shopping centers, high rise apartments and office buildings and developed sites for other contractors. I retired and became a consultant to the construction industry. I maintain my license and continuing education requirements, operate a small construction company and write a weekly newspaper column for the Palm Beach Post (a Cox publication) with the byline "Ask The Contractor". I am the "technical editor" for a publisher of books that relate to home maintenance.

Organizations
Previously - NAHA Currently - FLCA (Florida Licensed Contractors Assoc.)

Publications
Palm Beach Post newspaper - weekly Q & A column Happy Herald monthly real estate publication - monthly column

Education/Credentials
Michigan State University University of Detroit BS in Engineering

Past/Present Clients
I built a home in Palm Beach for a member of the Pulitzer Family. I was responsible for the completion of a twin hi-rise condominium project for G.E. Credit. I was a partner in the successful development of a P.U.D. (Planned Urban Development) subdivision. I represented the largest home builder from France (Bati Service, S.A.) in the development of a subdivision and the design and construction of the homes.

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