Gun for polyurethane foam: types, device, how to choose, models, prices

Mounting guns have become popular in the repair and construction industry due to their versatility. A convenient and easy-to-use tool does not require special skills or experience. It is intended for installation of door and window openings, insulation and other purposes. When using the gun correctly, it is possible to apply sealant as accurately as possible and reduce its costs. This universal tool will help you quickly complete all manipulations using foams, silicone and other sealants.

Despite the ease of use of mounting guns, it is important to follow the rules and know the basic features of their structure. This will help to preserve its properties throughout its entire service life; use the gun skillfully.

Scope of application and principle of operation

The need to use polyurethane foam, respectively, and the use of a gun used to spray it, arises when performing various types of repair and construction work, such as:

sealing joints of various building structures, furniture or technical devices;
insulation of structural elements of buildings and structures at the stage of their installation (windows, doors, roofing, enclosing structures, etc.);
performing installation work related to gluing various materials to each other (attaching foam plastic and other insulation materials to the building base);
work related to sound and noise insulation of premises;
filling voids of various origins and cracks in elements of various structures.

Using a foam gun when installing plastic windows

The operating principle of this type of gun is based on the fact that a cylinder with polyurethane foam is installed in the adapter of the device, which is in it under pressure in an aerosol state. When the trigger is pressed, the valve mounted on the cylinder opens, and the mounting foam begins to move along the barrel of the gun through a fitting installed at its end. The quantity and speed of aerosol supply is regulated by a special clamp (adjusting screw).

Foam gun kit

The pistol consists of:

Bell - a tube made of metal or plastic. It is through this that the material flows.
The trigger is a small trigger. It is used to regulate the supply of material.
The handle allows you to firmly fix the device in your hand.
The adapter holds a replaceable foam cylinder and material flows from it further along the structure.
The fastening mechanism connects all components into one whole.
A needle for operating the trigger and for opening and closing the hole.
The dosing screw regulates the flow of material when the trigger is fully pressed.

Sometimes the kit contains accessories for additional work, for example:

Conical nozzle for processing the narrowest areas and cracks.
An extension in the form of a thin flexible tube makes it easier to treat hard-to-reach areas.

All attachments are designed for long-term use; the only thing is that they need to be rinsed and cleaned well after use.

Sectional design of a foam gun

The main design elements of the spray foam gun are the adapter (gearbox), through which the cylinder is installed, and the aerosol supply mechanism, placed in a single housing. All structural elements of such a device are indicated in the section shown in the following figure.

Sectional view of a spray foam gun

This figure shows the following structural elements, namely:

1 – nozzle (fitting);
2 – trunk;
3 – needle rod;
4 – adapter;
5 – body;
6 – through hole;
7 – linings;
8 – locking nut (adjusting screw);
9 – spring;
10 – handle;
11 – fixing sleeve;
12 – trigger.

For your information! The bolt and handle are attached to the pistol body via a threaded connection. The needle rod and the trigger are mechanically connected to each other, and the foam flow is adjusted due to the presence of a pressure spring, a lining and a lock nut. The rotation of the lining sets in motion the bushing, which moves in the axial direction, which, in turn, limits the movement of the needle rod and, as a result, the amount of foam supplied to the nozzle.

Main structural elements of the mounting gun

Where is the mounting gun used and how to use it?

Household and industrial mounting guns with foam are designed for sealing, insulation and other tasks. They are designed for precise dosing, smooth foam delivery, and excellent thermal insulation. They make it easy to save consumables, especially when it comes to industrial applications. Even if you have used a gun before, it will take a while for it to be available for use.

Areas of application of pistols:

installation of windows and doors;
sealing all openings during roof installation;
improving sound insulation in buildings;
sealing window and door openings;
improving thermal insulation in cooling systems;
installation of air conditioners with foam sealant;
gluing insulating panels.

When choosing a foam brand, pay attention to the following characteristics:

no shrinkage;
insulation value;
flammability class;
possibility of coloring;
waterproof;
chemical resistance;
compatibility with materials such as wood, concrete, stone, plaster, metal, glass and other synthetic ones.

Main technical characteristics

When choosing a gun model for polyurethane foam, of course, you should know what technical characteristics you should pay special attention to, because... The ease of use and service life of such devices depends on this. The main technical characteristics for such a tool are:

ability to maintain tightness, depending on the type of valves used;
material used in the manufacture of the body and main structural elements.

Professional model "Tytan Professional Gun Standard Max"

The ability to ensure tightness determines the quality of the gun’s operation, expressed in the accuracy of dosing and preventing the foam from drying out in the gun. Various types of plastic and metal are used in the manufacture of tools. Models for professional use are made of impact-resistant plastic and metal.

Important! Guns made of metal are easy to maintain, reliable and have a long service life.

Tips for choosing

When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following points:

How comfortable is it to hold the device in your hand?
Possibility of regulating the supply.
Material (it is better to choose metal).

For the length of the barrel (the longer, the deeper the cracks are available for foaming).
The weight of the gun should be as small as possible so as not to load the hand.

Cheap models are usually intended for one-time work. They are made of plastic, and it is impossible to disassemble and clean them. Professional products are already made of metal; the handle is necessarily covered with rubber and abrasive particles for convenience. This pistol can be easily disassembled, it fits perfectly in the hand and does not strain the hand. Only the price will be noticeably higher.

How to choose a gun for polyurethane foam

If it is necessary to carry out work using polyurethane foam, the question arises of purchasing a mounting gun for spraying it.

The ability to disassemble the spray foam gun greatly simplifies its maintenance

In this case, the criteria for choosing such a tool will be the following parameters:

Purpose and nature of use - for a one-time use, you should not buy a professional tool, and for performing a large volume of work, a household model will not cope with the task.
Technical characteristics (valve tightness and materials used).
Possibility of disassembling the structure to clean the main elements of the device.
The availability of spare parts depends on the reliability of the manufacturer and its demand.

Insulation of interior partitions using polyurethane foam and a professional gun

Nuances of choice

Experts give some recommendations when choosing a foam gun:

Are there spare parts?
It is recommended to give preference to a model with adjustable volume and material feed speed in order to facilitate the process.
You should not give preference to a device that is made of inexpensive plastic, since most likely such a foam gun is designed for one-time use.
For home use, a gun with a minimum number of attachments and additional accessories is quite enough.
In the event of a breakdown, the collapsible gun allows you to simply replace the required part.

Professional type devices are designed for a significant amount of work and for systematic use, heavy loads.

Professional models of spray foam guns

The domestic professional tool market offers models of spray foam guns manufactured by foreign and Russian manufacturers. The most popular among them are products from such (Germany) and “Matrix” (China-Germany), “Hilti” (Liechtenstein), as well as “FINCH INDUSTRIAL TOOLS CANADA INC.” (Canada) and “Zubr” (Russia).

"Kraftool Celnometal"

Appearance of the “Kraftool Celnometal” model

The model is characterized by ease of maintenance, functionality and reliability, which is confirmed by reviews from real users.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Collapsible	Metal	0,82

In addition, the model has a Teflon coating on the nozzle and sealant supply regulator, which greatly simplifies maintenance of the tool.

Review of the “Kraftool Celnometal” model:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3534498.html

"Hilti CF DS1"

Appearance of the Hilti CF DS1 model

Distinctive features of the model are low weight and high quality workmanship.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Not collapsible	Reinforced plastic	0,4

The presence of a thin nose and the possibility of use in different planes make this model one of the best in the professional tool segment.

Review of the Hilti CF DS1 model:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3367215.html

"Matrix 88669"

Appearance of the gun for polyurethane foam model “Matrix 88669”

The model is popular due to its reliability and trouble-free operation.

The body is coated with Teflon, which makes cleaning the gun much easier, and the presence of two limiting handles makes use safe from injury.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Collapsible	Metal	0,55

"FIT 14270"

Appearance of the model “FIT 14270”

A distinctive feature of this model is the high quality of the materials used and the assembly performed. This gun can be used by both professionals and for personal use, and the presence of special attachments expands its functionality.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Collapsible	Metal and plastic	0,5

Review of the model “FIT 14270”:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3305815.html

"Zubr Turbo 4-06877"

Model "Zubr Turbo 4-06877"

The model is affordable and can be used by amateurs and professionals. The cylinder holder is treated with a special coating, and the polishing of the inner surface of the barrel facilitates the process of servicing the product.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Not collapsible	Metal and plastic	0,61

Rating of the best models

Let's consider the most current models for 2022. Let's look at their characteristics and highlight the main advantages and disadvantages.

Matrix 88669

Option with Teflon coating, which prevents foam from sticking and makes work easier. The product is comfortable to hold in your hand and is not heavy. The model is intended for repeated use. However, the product is fragile and sensitive to physical impact. Cost – 1200-1500 rubles.

Pros:

Ease of use.
Thin and long trunk.
Light weight.
Wide range of foam supply.
Easy to clean.

Minuses:

The Teflon coating is easy to break or damage.
Inconvenient trigger.
The need to purchase a special protective case.
Overcharge.

Owner reviews
The gun is easy to use. Particularly pleasing is the presence of a special limiter that prevents fingers from being pinched by the trigger. Only the trigger itself is straight and quite tight, which makes your fingers get tired quickly.

Matequs Super Teflon

One of the most balanced and comfortable, but expensive models. An option for real professionals. The Teflon coating and the ability to completely disassemble the gun significantly simplify the work. Ergonomic characteristics are at the highest level - the device does not strain your hand, so you can easily work with it all day. The peculiarity of the model is a special design that makes the foam more elastic at the outlet in order to better fill voids. The service life of the product is hundreds of hours. Cost 3500-4000 rubles.

Pros:

Light weight.
Ease of use.
Complete disassembly.
Resistance of the coating to solvents.
Special compartment for foam expansion inside the gun.

Minus:

High price.

Owner reviews
The best model you can buy at the moment. There are practically no disadvantages except for the price. In practice, the gun pays for itself with regular use. Intended for professionals only.

Kraftool Celnometal

The product is made of brass, which increases service life, but has a negative impact on weight (more than 800 g). The gun is often subject to blockages, and manufacturers have equipped it with a special nut for cleaning. The design is strong and reliable; you don’t have to worry about dropping the gun or stepping on it. However, it is difficult to hold in your hand; your hand gets tired quickly due to the heavy weight. Cost 1300-1500 rubles.

Pros:

Reliability and durability.
Easy to clean.
Convenient cylinder mounting.

Minuses:

Frequent blockages of the foam supply tube.
Heavy weight.
Overcharge.

Owner reviews
Overall the model is not bad. All characteristics are at a decent level. Only the weight and large sizes are not suitable for everyone. The hand gets tired quickly, and you have to take breaks. If you work all day, your joints will hurt.

PIT

Chinese model made of plastic and metal at the same time. This significantly reduces the weight of the product, but affects durability (the thread wears out quickly). The metal itself is of low quality, so its service life will not be long. However, the device is pleasant to use: the gun is light and comfortable. It is possible to regulate the flow in a fairly wide range. A long metal tube allows you to foam hard-to-reach places, but it bends and even breaks easily. Cost – 200-250 rubles.

Pros:

Ease of use.
Low foam consumption.
Light weight.
Long foam supply tube.
Possibility of using additional attachments.
Low price.

Minuses:

The foam easily sticks to the walls.
Short service life.

Owner reviews
At first glance, the model makes a pleasant impression, until blockages begin. The fragile plastic handle can break from any fall. The threads of nuts and screws wear off quickly. Not the best pistol. Just make one repair and throw it away.

Stayer Economy

German model of high quality. The service life of the product is 7 years, according to the manufacturer. The long and strong feeding tube is durable and reliable; the foam does not stick and the coating does not scratch. The only problem is that there is no nut to unscrew the tube, so you will have to wash it under high pressure. After each use, it is necessary to pour a special solution inside to avoid clogging with foam. This is due to the narrow space inside. On the other hand, a minimum of parts makes the device light and convenient. Cost – 800-900 rubles.

Pros:

Light weight (500 g).
Ease of use.
Reliability.
Wide feed adjustment range.
Thin long trunk.
Low price.

Minuses:

Doesn't understand completely.
Inconvenient mounting of cylinders.
The need to use a special cleaning agent.

Owner reviews
The model is very nice and comfortable. Particularly pleasing is the light weight and comfortable handle. You just need to wash it constantly. If you forget to fill in the solvent for the foam once, then you will have to suffer for a long time, because the gun cannot be disassembled.

Blast Extra Light

Another Chinese model, the “trick” of which is its low weight. It's all about the plastic design of the case. Thanks to this, the gun does not tire the hand, but the service life is noticeably reduced. The product is equipped with a special plastic lever for adjusting the supply of material; If you step on the gun or drop it, the lever will break. The model is prone to blockages, the foam constantly sticks. Cost – 200-300 rubles.

Pros:

Light weight.
Comfortable handle.
Low price.

Minuses:

Limited service life.
Fragility of the structure.
Constant blockages.

Owner reviews
Perfect as a disposable pistol. The model is cheap and very convenient. After several uses, blockages become a chronic problem, so you will have to throw the “Chinese” in the trash. Definitely not for repeated use.

Atoll G-116

The model is considered one of the most balanced. The product sits comfortably in the hand and does not overwork the hand. Foam cylinders are conveniently fixed, which has a beneficial effect on the speed of work. The threads of the nuts are wear-resistant, like the entire gun. Only there is no limiter on the trigger that prevents pinching of fingers. Cost – 500-700 rubles.

Pros:

Ease of use.
Long service life.
Easy to clean.
Light weight.
Good value for money.

Minuses:

Rubber gaskets are corroded by solvent.
Constantly pinches fingers.

Owner reviews
A very good pistol for the money. It has no serious shortcomings. Will last a long time. Out of habit, you will pinch your fingers at first, but you can put up with it.

Hilti CF-DS1

Purely professional model for regular use. Even in appearance, the pistol gives the impression of a real weapon. It has a voluminous body and an unusual trigger with a special lock that protects against involuntary pressing. This is useful when the product is lying in the trunk under pressure from other tools or on the belt. The tightness allows the gun to operate in any position. The case, although made of plastic, is quite durable. The device cannot be disassembled, but the foam inside does not stick and is easily washed through the “spout”. Cost – 3000-3200 rubles.

Pros:

Very light (400 g).
Ease of use.
Presence of a trigger lock.
Thin trunk.
Works in any position
Strength.
Long service life (at least 7 years).

Minuses:

Large dimensions.
Can't make it out.
High price.

Owner reviews
A unique model that is suitable only for real professionals. Requires constant cleaning. If you wash the gun regularly, there will be no problems. You can drop it, but it is not recommended.

FIT 14276

The body is made of ultra-light and durable aluminum alloy. All valves are nickel plated, making them resistant to chemicals. Sensitive feed adjustment and included attachments simplify work and improve performance quality. The pistol is light and comfortable. Material consumption is one of the lowest in general. Cost – 1500-1700 rubles.

Pros:

Convenience in everything.
Reliability.
Easy to maintain.

Minus:

High price.

Owner reviews
The pistol is suitable for both beginners and professionals. Working with him is a pleasure. Particularly surprising is the point supply of foam and low consumption. Only the price is “biting”. It's hardly worth buying it to gather dust in the garage.

BISON Buran 06866

The model is made of metal, but with a plastic handle. In general, the strength is at a good level. The weight is light and the handle is comfortable. The product is sealed, so the foam can stay inside for a long time without hardening. The coating protects against corrosion and foam adhesion. Overall, the model is balanced, but not the best in terms of performance in its price range. Cost – 1000-1200 rubles.

Pros:

Good build quality.
Low price.
High tightness.

Minuses:

Can't be taken apart.
The handle is not suitable for large hands.

Owner reviews
A normal pistol for the money. There's not much to complain about. It often gets clogged, but this is a problem with many models, even more expensive ones. If you wash it regularly and do not drop it, the gun will last for many years.

The choice of a pistol must be conscious, that is, the future owner must take into account what characteristics are decisive for him and how often the product will be used. For one-time housework, the choice should be made in favor of cheap plastic models. If a professional buys, then you will have to pay good money for an expensive and reliable pistol that is lightweight and will not break the first time it hits the ground.

Household spray foam guns

Among the models intended for one-time work rather than professional use, the most popular are the following models (Russia) and “Biber” (Germany), “STAYER” and “BLAST” (China).

"Biber Master 60111"

Appearance of the model “Biber Master 60111”

The model is distinguished by its affordable price and at the same time high technical performance, allowing the gun to be used even under intensive operating conditions.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Collapsible	Plastic and metal	0,67

"PIT P7000003"

Model “PIT P7000003”

A mounting gun from Chinese manufacturers is the best product for performing one-time jobs. In the model, all elements are made of plastic, with the exception of the barrel and valve, which made it possible to reduce the cost of the product and reduce its weight.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Not collapsible	Plastic	0,4

Review of the model “PIT P7000003”:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_2201679.html

"Stayer Master EconoMax 06861"

Stayer Master EconoMax model

This model is distinguished by its unpretentiousness in use, which is due to its simplicity, as well as its ability to be used for a long time, because only high-quality materials are used in production.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Not collapsible	Plastic and metal	0,41

Review of the model “Stayer Master EconoMax 06861”:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_3508147.html

"Blast Extra Lite 590024"

Appearance of a disposable gun for polyurethane foam “Blast Extra Lite”

The model is one of the cheapest of all offered on the domestic market.

In addition, thanks to the maximum possible use of plastic, the product turned out to be the lightest in comparison with analogues of the same type.

Frame	Material	Weight, kg
Not collapsible	Plastic	0,15

Review of the model “Blast Extra Lite 590024”:
More details on Otzovik: https://otzovik.com/review_2048118.html

Types of foam guns

Guns are divided into 2 large categories: professional and household appliances. The household device is of integral design and cannot be disassembled like a professional device.

There are also disposable and reusable types. Naturally, reusable devices are in greatest demand, as they have many advantages over a disposable foam gun:

A uniform jet is created;
The entire canister will be completely used up;
Can perform a significant amount of work;
With proper care it will work for many years.

How to use a spray foam gun correctly

A spray foam gun is a fairly simple tool to use, so to use it correctly you need to know a few basic rules:

the container with polyurethane foam should be located on top, if possible in a vertical plane, because otherwise, the gas may come out, or its pressure will not be enough to spray the contents of the cylinder;
before use and during a long operating cycle, the foam can must be shaken a certain number of times;

Expert's point of view

Dmitry Kholodok

Technical director of repair and construction

Ask a Question

“Before starting work, the foam can should be shaken at least 20 times, and during work - in accordance with the need.”

The foam canister should always be located on top of the gun

before installing the can, the adjusting screw must be closed all the way, and after installation, open it ½ turn and press the trigger, thereby checking its functionality;
during operation, the sealant supply speed is set by an adjusting screw;
an open container cannot be disconnected from the gun until the foam is completely used up, otherwise it will dry out;
After finishing using the can, the gun should be cleaned.

Before applying foam, the surface must be cleaned of dust, dirt and foreign objects

You can learn how to use a foam gun by watching the following video.

Pros and cons of foam guns

Significant advantages of this tool:

When released, the foam increases by almost 60-80%.
Quick change of foam canister.
Easy, safe and simple to operate.
A special needle prevents air from getting into the inside of the balloon, so the foam does not dry out for a long time.

The disadvantages include:

It is inconvenient to work above the ceiling, because the can of foam must be held vertically, relative to the horizon.
The device requires a space at least 40-50 cm wide, which makes it difficult to work in narrow places.
The device must be cleaned and washed after use.

Regardless of the presence of disadvantages, it is recommended that every owner have this device, because it can help solve many problems, while it takes up little space and fully justifies its cost.

Terms of use

The installation or insulation process will be more efficient if you use the gun correctly. Skillful handling will extend the operating time of the mechanism. After purchase, specialists check the foam gun to ensure that the valves are working properly . They do not use foam, but a cleaning liquid. The cleaner canister is equipped with a mounting part for the gun, as is the container with polyurethane foam.

Make several presses so that the composition fills the internal capacity of the gun. The container with liquid is removed from the device, and the instrument is left for 2 days. After this time, press start. A characteristic pop should be heard. This means that the cleaning liquid has not escaped from the compartment thanks to reliable valves. Air does not penetrate inside, the required pressure is maintained. If everything is wrong, the gun is returned to the seller.

How to insert a foam canister

Before charging, shake the container for 30 seconds to mix all components. The container is screwed onto the adapter to the gun until a hissing sound appears.
Remove the retaining ring and screw the cylinder into the thread until it stops. Further actions:

the cylinder is positioned bottom up;
turn the adjusting screw counterclockwise a quarter of a turn and pull the trigger;
make a test release of foam, look at its consistency, press again to adjust.

Valera

The voice of the construction guru

Ask a Question

After screwing the container with polyurethane foam, the composition moves through the valve into the supply tube. By pressing the start button, the valve opens and the foam comes out. The supply of foamy mass is shut off with a regulator on the rear surface of the housing. In this position, without twisting the cylinder, you can store the gun for up to six months without the composition hardening. If you disconnect the bottle, the foam will dry out.

How to apply foam or sealant

to be treated is cleaned of dust and moistened with water for better adhesion and setting of the polyurethane foam.

Work process:

The barrel of the tool is brought to the seam, the trigger is pulled;
the composition is applied in layers so that the tip of the barrel is immersed in the foamy mass;
the volume of foam is coordinated by the stroke of the trigger;
After completion of application, close the adjusting bolt.

Before use, check the serviceability of the tool. When applying, position the barrel of the gun at an angle of 90° so as not to block the view of the treated area. The foam is applied smoothly, taking into account the increase in volume. In the gaps, the space is filled halfway.

To use foam, you need to wear gloves and goggles, and it is recommended to ensure the room is ventilated. Do not point the gun at animals or people.

How to replace a cylinder

Unscrew the cylinder in the reverse order if you need to replace it.

Operating procedure:

turn the pistol over with the handle up;
open the adjusting screw clockwise;
pull the trigger;
unscrew the empty container;
Place a container with rinsing and clean it.

After this, you can screw on another balloon with polyurethane foam. The gun is shaken together with the installed cylinder (30 seconds). Remove the frozen foam from the tip of the barrel with a knife. Then unscrew the control bolt and release the foam until a uniform flow is obtained.

How to clean a gun

Cleaning is carried out if the tool has not been used for a long time. To do this, temporarily remove the foam container and screw on a container with cleaning liquid . Press the trigger and clean the inside of the gun cavities. Experts recommend leaving the gun filled with cleaner for 10 minutes.

If there is dried composition , unscrew the cleaner and treat the outside of the body. Put on a cylinder with an insulator and continue working.

The flushing composition is sold together with the gun or separately. The liquid is packaged in cylinders similar to containers with foam. If, after washing, parts of the foam remain inside the instrument, the procedure is repeated until completely cleaned.

Care instructions

According to the instructions, store the device with a screwed-on cylinder so that the foam in the tool is always ready for application (under pressure). If you remove the container, the foam or sealant hardens in the barrel, you will have to further disassemble and clean the device.

If the device is used regularly, cleaning is expected every three months;

A device with a screwed-on cylinder must not be left near heat sources or exposed to the sun.

Some users prefer manual cleaning . To do this, the gun is disassembled into parts and dried residues of the composition are removed. Use rags and solvent. Use a wire or a thin screwdriver for the nozzle, where it is difficult to push the rag through. Clean carefully so as not to damage structural elements.

Valera

The voice of the construction guru

Ask a Question

If you need to foam around a door frame, and you purchased foam with a removable tube, is it possible to get the job done without purchasing a gun? Such cylinders are suitable for small volumes. The container is shaken for 30 seconds to ensure homogeneity. Remove the protective cap and attach the plastic tube. Such parts are sold with household containers, but professional ones are not equipped with them. The nozzle of the tube is brought to the application site and the valve is pressed.

How to clean a gun after use

To understand how to clean a foam gun, you need to remember the design of this product. To ensure the possibility of continuing installation with this device, it is necessary to clean the barrel from foam residues.

It is best to clean the structure immediately after completing the work, while the material has not yet gained strength. Liquid foam can be easily removed with solvents, but frozen material will have to be dealt with mechanically.

Using a special cylinder

To clean the structure, remove the used foam container and screw on a special bottle with cleaning liquid that is under pressure. This product is intended for cleaning the instrument immediately after use.

Under pressure, the cleaning fluid penetrates the barrel, cleans the valve, trigger and removes residues through the nozzle. When the tool is completely free of foam and pure solvent flows through the barrel, the process is complete.

Mechanical cleaning

This technique has to be resorted to when cleaning with special liquids does not bring success. If a significant amount of time passes after work, the foam turns into a solid state and acetone cannot penetrate inside the mechanism.

Mechanical cleaning consists of scraping off the remaining foam from the outer surface of the gun and cleaning the barrel. You can remove dried foam from the handle and the outer surface of the barrel using a stationery knife. You need to carefully clean the nozzle in the same way, but to get deeper into the barrel of the gun you will need a thin steel wire.

The wire is screwed into the barrel of the gun, clearing the way for the subsequent pouring of solvent. It is advisable to clean the barrel along its entire length using a wire, then the final cleaning using a spray bottle will take place without problems.

In the same way, remove dried material residues from the valve threads, preparing the surface for solvent treatment. The residues are cut off with a knife and cleaned, after which the threads are completely filled with solvent and final cleaning is performed.

Cleaning the gun using high pressure washers is dangerous. The gun mechanism is not designed for such loads and may fail.

How to care for it and what problems occur?

If you choose an industrial foam tool, it is important to care for it properly. Even budget models can last for several years with proper maintenance. Follow several recommendations that will help increase service life:

the cylinder should be changed only if it has run out of sealant or needs to be replaced;
if you change the container, do not forget to clean the adapter and use a chemical solution;
When disassembling, it is important to clean all parts. Use the mechanical method only if the solvent cannot cope with the dried sealant.

If the construction gun malfunctions and even after a thorough cleaning, the trigger does not work properly, we move on to finding the reason for this behavior of the tool. In a collapsible tool, parts can be replaced.

Let's look at a few classic breakdowns of spray foam guns:

Foam does not come out of the nozzle when pressed. The cause of the malfunction most often lies in clogging of internal parts. If you have disassembled and thoroughly cleaned the adapter, the barrel and gun still refuse to work, check the serviceability of the screw. Another reason for this malfunction is considered to be a cold cylinder. Try heating it.
Foam flows out of the gun not only through the nozzle, but also in other places. This indicates that the parts are not tightly secured. This led to a leak in the seal. In this case, the repair again begins with cleaning the internal elements, after which it is worth replacing the gasket near the trigger. If you find that the barrel nose is clogged, try cleaning it with a thin plastic rod.
Foam flows out of the spout without pressing. To fix the problem, you need to replace the nozzle.
Foam coming out of the adapter. Most likely, the spring responsible for the operation of the valve has worn out. In this case, you only need to change the entire adapter.

The main criteria for choosing a pistol

All such devices are characterized by a simple design; their effectiveness is largely determined by the quality of the following elements:

Adapter. If the thread of the retainer is made of low-quality material, it will quickly wear out during prolonged use.
Working valve. The most durable part is considered to be made of stainless steel or bronze. When it is made from a metal that is not strong enough, it can become deformed over time. As a result, the risk of leaks increases.
Connecting the tube. It can be simply squeezed into the body, then cleaning the gun after use is much more difficult. Therefore, many people prefer a threaded connection. In this case, a wrench is used to remove the pipe.
Check valve. When it is damaged, after removing the cylinder, the foam will begin to come to the surface, where it will need to be eliminated immediately. At the same time, an air flow enters the pipe, intensive solidification of the substance inside the device occurs.

Rules for working with a mounting gun

You can study the features of using a specific model of mounting gun in the instructions supplied with it. There is a universal algorithm for using the tool:

to improve adhesion of surfaces, moisten the seam with water;
point the nose of the tool at the seam;
slowly press the trigger, adjusting the speed and amount of foam. The flow should be uniform so that you do not have to remove excess sealant in the future;
if you don't have enough foam, adjust the screw. Most often it is located at the back of the instrument;
technology for filling the seam with polyurethane foam - from bottom to top.

Keep in mind that the seam should not be filled completely, so experts recommend sticking to a zigzag filling. The space should be filled approximately 75%, since the polyurethane foam will increase in volume. If necessary, the voids can be filled with polyurethane foam. If you notice that the foam changes consistency, it is better to stop and shake the can well. Don't forget to clean the nozzle regularly to avoid freezing.