VIDEO Coaches' Corner: Solving problems – the follow up stage, Part 4
Steve Payne
Videos Canadian Contractor BusinessMike Draper of Renovantage.com concludes his chat with Rob Koci, editor of Canadian Contractor, about problem solving with clients
This is the 4th part of our video interview with Mike Draper, Renovantage, an organization that helps contractors do better business.
Here, Mike chats with Rob Koci of Canadian Contractor about the “follow up” stage of solving problems with clients.
If you have any questions about dispute resolution with clients, please email them to Mike (mike.draper@renovantage.com).
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One of my colleagues sent me an article from your magazine (“Canadian Contractor” Volume 14, Number 5 September/October 2013 page 46) that had an article on spray foam kits. The article showed how a low pressure slow rise foam kit was used to seal and insulate rim joists and to insulate existing hollow walls. I searched the NRC site and the only foam kits I could find for “Tiger Foam” was under a listing CCMC 13484-L (attached) which shows that the foam conforms to and meets the requirements of CAN/ULC-S711.1-05 as a bead applied two component polyurethane air sealing foam. In order to be used as an insulation I believe that the polyurethane foam must conform to CAN/ULC S-705.1 as per (National Building Code of Canada) Part 9 division B (9.25.2.2) and installed as per CAN/ULC S-705.2 (9.25.2.5). Is there an exception or “alternate solution” for these particular applications pointed out in your magazine?
Hi Clare,
Thanks for your note. I wrote the article you mentioned and I’m happy to help you understand things properly. First, the rim joist issue.
Due to a rising tide of bureaucratic mumbo jumbo, spray foam kits are considered “air sealants” rather than insulation, even though low pressure foam insulates just as well as so-called “spray foam insulation.” It’s actually the same stuff. Any distinction is fiction. Go ahead and use Tiger Foam or Dow Froth Pack or Touch ‘n Foam on rim joists. As long as you apply these low pressure kits at least 3″ thick you’ll have the necessary air barrier action. Call the results an “air sealant” and enjoy excellent insulation properties as a “side” benefit.
As for slow rise foam in hollow wall renovations, although Tiger Foam doesn’t carry a CCMC number, an engineer can specify the product and bring it into a project legitimately. Many people are surprised to learn that CCMC is entirely voluntary and isn’t the only way to get products into projects.
I hope this enlightens you, Clare. Thanks for reading the magazine!
Steve
Unfortunately, any do it yourself spray foam kit cannot be used on any job unless the product conforms to listing dscribed in the NBC or OBC or has a BMEC ruling (unless you are using it as an air sealant around windows or doors). You would not be given any R vlaue, air barrier/vapour barrier approval if one of these products were installed in a wall or ceiling cavity. A product may have a CCMC number and that product could be used for that purpose only. CCMC may be voluntary, however, to use a product for anything except what it has been approved for is not permitted in the NBC or OBC.
If an engineer or Architect wishes to use something outside of these areas they would have to apply for an alternative solution. This alternative solution may or may not be accepted.
Always check with your local municipality if something can be used prior to installing and spending your money.