In the repair, mounting foam is very popular, and all due to the fact that it makes it possible to quickly fill the cavities of the space during the installation of windows or between any building materials. By its properties, polyurethane foam is an instantly solidifying, hermetic substance.
It perfectly prevents the appearance of gaps and is suitable for fixing elements in construction. She has only one drawback, after opening the balloon and starting to use it, the foam treacherously solidifies in the valve, thereby creating problems in the further use of the product. It turns out that the purchased cylinder must be used completely, without a remainder. The way out is to buy a special gun designed for polyurethane foam.
Modern cylinders have a threaded base that can be easily screwed onto the gun. The tool perfectly dispenses foam, the seams are aesthetically pleasing and without excess product. Having tried working with a pistol once, you will no longer want to give it up.
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As a rule, using polyurethane foam from a cylinder will cost more money (even with infrequent use) and will be significantly inferior in quality to the work performed with a pistol. The tool is not so expensive and quickly pays for itself, the main thing is to make a good purchase so that you do not have to regret the money spent later. And for this it is worth studying the selection criteria.
The main selection criterion is the reliability of the device. All parts of the tool should preferably be made of metal, but it has its drawbacks and the main one is heaviness, but it will last comparatively longer than a product made of plastic or a powder mold. It will be best if the device can be disassembled, as this will facilitate the cleaning or repair process. In addition, if any part breaks, then it can be replaced with a new one without any problems. You will also need to pay attention to the quality of the two valves.
The next points to focus on are barrel length and flow control.
Barrel length comes in three ranges: from 10 to 15 cm (suitable for working on accessible surfaces), from 15 to 20 cm (universal length, suitable for any job) and over 20 cm (tool suitable for working on hard-to-reach surfaces).
Regarding the flow regulator, if the gun is without it, then it will not allow saving polyurethane foam. For the price, such a model is, of course, cheaper than its "brothers". There are pistols that have a plastic regulator in their functionality, but it is extremely unreliable, since continuous operation easily disables it. The best tools are those with a Teflon or metal ball.
Dozens of different companies make repair and construction tools.Among them are leaders from European brands: Kraftool, Matrix, Stayer, Atoll and Hilti.
German Kraftool creates various series of pistols for every taste and budget. For example, the Kraft-Max series is known for having a Teflon coated surface, while the Industrie series has a brass needle valve and metal barrel with body.
Matrix has long gained popularity in our market and became famous for its impeccable quality. All the necessary tests are carried out perfectly and there is no doubt about the reliability of the purchased products.
Before the working process, you need to carefully check the tightness of the threaded connections. The foam bottle must be shaken thoroughly, then the cap must be removed and the gun screwed onto the bottle. At the end of the gun, where the handle is located, there is an adjustment screw, it will need to be turned to the left a quarter turn. Now you can press the trigger, the gun will begin to fill with foam. Adjustment (outlet) of the foam is carried out with a screw. It is not necessary to fill the entire seam with foam, since it has properties to expand. Therefore, the filling should be 40 percent of the estimated seam volume.
After the work is completed, the adjusting screw is tightened until it stops. If there is still foam in the cylinder, then you do not need to unscrew it. The foam in the gun must be under pressure, otherwise it will dry out. But you need to remember that for more than 3-4 days the gun should not be filled with foam, as it thickens.
For any repair, be it at home, in the country or at work, you will need to use polyurethane foam. It ideally fills the voids, and if there is a pistol in addition to the cylinder, then the work ahead will only be a joy. Model KRAFTOOL PANTER 06855 has an ergonomic handle and is very comfortable to use.
The body of the product is Teflon-coated, and the length is such that no extension cord is needed. There is an adjusting screw, but with a miniature head, which makes adjustment not very convenient. In order for the instrument to serve as long as possible, it should be fully looked after, that is, do not forget to rinse it with a special agent after work and store it in a dry place. Product weight 600 grams, packed product dimensions 380 x 180 x 60 mm.
You can buy it for 1200 rubles.
Of the inexpensive models, the STAYER PROFI 06862 model has good functionality, it is one of the few that comes with a nozzle that allows you to fill cavities in hard-to-reach places. The trigger has additional force elements to protect it from low falls. The low price allows you to condescendingly look at such a drawback as a thin handle with a partition. But if you work with gloves, you will not rub your fingers.
The product has a sealed construction and Teflon coating. The production of the pistol is Chinese, and you need to be prepared that the resource can be enough for 3-4 jobs. This is an amateur instrument and for its price such quality is forgivable.
You can buy it for 600 rubles.
The Matrix 88669 model will appeal to both amateur and professional use in renovation and finishing works. The pistol has a long enough stem that allows it to function in hard-to-reach places. The body of the product is made of metal and covered with a two-layer Teflon coating, which is an excellent barrier to foam sticking.
After use, you need to very carefully wipe the outside of the device and clean the spout with a special nozzle. The main thing is a respectful attitude, Teflon is easily scratched and, if negligent, quickly turn into a depressing look.The handle of the appliance is equipped with two guards to protect the fingers from being pinched.
The cost of the pistol is about 1300 rubles.
Of the budget models, the FIT 14272 pistol is popular. It is often used in various construction or installation works when it is required to fill cavities and holes in certain materials. Although the model is not professional, the lightweight zinc alloy body makes it reliable and highly demanded by buyers.
The tool fits comfortably in the hand, the smooth trigger makes it possible to accurately dose the foam. But, nevertheless, claims may arise to the trigger, since it is far away and you have to reach for it with your fingers. The weight of the product does not reach 400 grams. Of the amateur models, the FIT 14272 is considered one of the best in its segment.
You can buy it for 650 rubles.
The body of the SibrTech 88671 model is made of aluminum alloy, in addition, the frame is reinforced, so if a fall from a small height occurs, the pistol parts do not fall off. Product weight is about half a kilo. The tool is equipped with a large adjustment knob with a ribbed plastic tip. The pistol handle is very comfortable and thanks to it it is easy to control the foam delivery. The main advantage of SibrTech 88671 is excellent ergonomics, it makes the use of the tool comfortable and does not allow hands to get tired.
How much can you buy such a successful model? The price is low, only about 800 rubles.
Professional models include the model for Zolder Teflon polyurethane foam. The tool is designed to dose professional polyurethane foam as accurately as possible. The device is equipped with a foam volume regulator. The weight is light, only 350 grams, so you can work comfortably and tirelessly. The coating of the product is Teflon, which is the distinguishing feature of ZOLDER products.
You can buy it for 1800 rubles.
The Enkor 56358 foam assembly tool has excellent functionality. This gun makes it possible to work in hard-to-reach places, and all thanks to the presence of a thin and long rod. The package includes a gun, 2 nozzles, adapter cleaning scraper, 2 extensions and a device manual. Mechanical power supply, Teflon coating. There is a needle valve. Weight is about 400 grams. Dimensions 340 x 120 x 50 mm.
You can buy it for 780 rubles.
Model Fomeron Top 590007 has a Teflon coating, the body is made of zinc alloy, the handle is plastic, the needle valve is available. Power supply for Fomeron Top 590007 is mechanical. Packaged weight is 470 grams. The muzzle is collapsible, so the product can be easily cleaned of foam. The sealing system has been improved due to the fact that there are two rubber gaskets, which perfectly protect against air bubbles. The tool is adapted to work at low temperatures.
You can buy it for 1300 rubles.
A gun for polyurethane foam will last a long time, if you do not forget to follow the elementary recommendations for use.
Sub-zero temperature rarely suits what tool, it is advisable to work when the air is from +5 C to +30 C. Before starting work, you should look at the instructions, there will be recommendations on how to put on and securely fix the cylinder. Whisk the foam balloon for about 30-40 seconds and hold it upside down. When filling seams, use the tool from top to bottom or from left to right.
When the work is completed and the cylinder is completely empty, then it is removed, but if there are residues of foam in it, it can be left on the tool, but not more than six months. And do not forget to thoroughly ventilate the room in which you work with foam, it still contains harmful substances for human health.