Update: Closed-cell SPF with low GWP (HFO) blowing agents will be required across the U.S. by the end of 2024

January 23, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

On January 1, 2025, a complete nationwide ban on the manufacture of HFC closed-cell SPF systems will take effect.

Attention spray foam contractors:

Many of you are aware that the industry is transitioning from closed-cell foams using HFC blowing agents to systems using low GWP (global warming potential) HFO blowing agents*. The new HFO blowing agents significantly reduce the carbon footprint of closed-cell SPF compared to HFC foams.

Several states have already banned HFC foams during the past three and a half years. On January 1, 2025, a complete nationwide ban on the manufacture of HFC closed-cell SPF systems will take effect. HFC foams manufactured before January 1, 2025, can be sold and applied until January 1, 2028. With product shelf life a major consideration, contractors should plan their HFC foam inventories accordingly.

This transition means that all U.S. spray foam contractors should switch to closed-cell foams using low-GWP blowing agents as soon as possible. With every change in blowing agent, there are other chemicals that may change in the formulation such as polyols, catalysts and surfactants. While your existing equipment will remain compatible with these new foams, it is important to note that there may be variations in chemical temperature settings, spray techniques, maximum pass thicknesses and wait times between passes – as is true when you change between manufacturers. It has been reported that higher peak reaction temperatures and longer sustained time at elevated core temperatures have been observed in some HFO foams, especially at the maximum allowable pass thickness. These differences are specific to each product and are described in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

If you have not yet used HFO foams, now is the time to start. Over the next several weeks, we strongly encourage you to contact your chemical supplier to ensure that all installers receive proper training on the handling and installation of the new foams. Proper training will ensure a smooth transition and maintain the high standards of your installations.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter and for your continued commitment to installation quality and safety.

*There are other options for low-GWP blowing agents in closed-cell SPF, but nearly all US will be using HFO blowing agents.

About Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA)

Founded in 1987, the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) is the voice, educational and technical resource for the spray polyurethane foam industry. The Alliance is a 501(c)6 trade association comprised of contractors, manufacturers and distributors of polyurethane foam, related equipment and protective coatings, inspections, surface preparations and other services. The organization supports the best practices and growth of the industry through a number of core initiatives, including educational programs and events; the SPFA ISO-17024 Professional Certification Program providing professionals with the tools to differentiate themselves from competition and a reference for customers looking to hire qualified contractor services; technical services covering publication of literature and guidelines, safety materials and representation of the industry with various construction code bodies; federal and state advocacy; industry promotion efforts including an annual convention and expo drawing 1,600 SPF professionals, publication of Sprayfoam Professional Magazine; and research and networking opportunities for members.