How do I remove spray foam from my hands?
Spray foam insulation is a great way to insulate specific parts of your home, including metal buildings , crawl spaces, and even attics. It feels gaps and cracks effectively and so it’s a great choice for creating insulation from the outside humidity. However, it can be extremely messy to work with and can be very difficult to remove from your skin and other surfaces.
What is Spray Foam Insulation Made Of?
Spray foam insulation is made of two parts. One part Polyol and one part isocyanate. When combined, these two create a chemical reaction to form a rigid or flexible foam. It expands to fill the space.
Why Does Spray Foam Stick?
Spray foam has adhesive properties from the chemical reaction of the polyurethane. As it expands and cures, it forms a strong bond with the surfaces it contacts with. (Did you know that spray foam acts to reinforce the structural integrity of your home?) This is why it can be extremely challenging to remove, especially if it’s been on your skin for a while.
How do I Remove Spray Foam from My Hands?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you remove spray foam from your skin:
- Pause: You might be inclined to pick at the foam, but it’s best not to do this. It can simply irritate your skin and actually create more difficulty in getting it off of your skin.
- Wash Your Hands: Use some warm water with soap to begin. Do this as soon as possible, since the sooner you start, the easier it will be to remove the foam.
- Use Vegetable Oil: If the foam is still sticking to you, try applying some vegetable oil to a paper towel and rub it in to the affected area. This oil can break up the foam particles on your skin.
- Rinse again: After step 3, wash your hands with soap and water to remove the vegetable oil.
- Repeat if necessary. It will eventually come off
- Pot Scrubber: In extreme cases, and depending on the type of foam, try a pot scrubber. It’s extremely abrasive so be cautious as it can cause skin irritation.
- Sweat it out: You may also try wearing latex gloves and allowing your hands to sweat can help clean your hands.
- In the end, you just need to give it time.
Additional Tips:
Wear Gloves: Prevention is always the best way to avoid spray foam getting onto your skin. NItrile or butyl rubber gloves are ideal for handling spray foam.
Act Quickly: It may seem like a simple answer, but don’t overlook the fact that when it comes to removing the foam, the faster the better.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Harsh chemicals can irritate your skin. Stick to mild soap and vegetable oil.
Protect Your Skin: If you’re working with spray foam regularly, consider using a barrier cream to protect your skin.
By following these steps and tips, you can effectively remove spray foam from your hands and minimize the risk of skin irritation. If you need assistance in applying spray foam, Vance Insulation has 60 years of insulation experience. We offer free estimates, flexible payment options, and the highest quality customer experience.
