How Much Does a Spray Foam Rig Cost?

Photo courtesy of SprayWorks Equipment Group

How much does a spray foam rig cost? We get this question a lot. When shopping for a spray foam truck or trailer, it is important to understand that spray foam machines are referred to by a few different names, depending upon the brand, such as proportioners, reactors, or machines. Understanding the basic features of  each type of machine is important in making the correct choice for your needs. Keep in mine that one size does not fit all. Spray foam machines are designed for specific kinds of applications.

Understanding Types of Spray Foam Machines

Spray foam equipment is designed for specific uses. The cost of spray foam rigs can vary greatly depending upon the type of equipment needed to spray certain kinds of projects. For example: spraying residential and small commercial insulation can be accomplished using an air-driven or electric (lower-pressure/lower output) machine. Hydraulic (high pressure/high output) machines are often used for spraying roofs, exteriors, and interiors with a large amount of square footage, such as schools, hospitals, and other types of large public and commercial buildings.

Less expensive machines are generally air-driven or electric machines, and the prices increase as you move toward machines with additional high-tech features and higher output such as hydraulic machines. Hydraulic machines are considered heavy duty (high output/higher volume) for industrial use. As technology improves, spray foam machines have become computerized and digitized to collect an abundance of information that allows the contractor to program and monitor the machine’s operations, trouble-shoot problems, and collect data. These machines are best used by experienced applicators. Those new to the industry are wise to start with an air-driven or electric machine since they are easier to operate and maintain.

Examples of lower pressure/lower output machines are: The Graco A25 portable machine, PMC’s PH-2 and the PH-25. These machines are designed for residential insulation, small commercial buildings, pole buildings and concrete-lifting projects. Examples of PMC’s (Polyurethane Machinery Corporation) higher pressure/ higher output machines are the PHX-2, PHX-25, and PHX-40. PMC machines that have an “X” in the name are higher pressure/higher output. These machines are designed for large commercial and industrial projects.

Hose length & Capacity: Spray foam machines are designed to accommodate certain hose lengths. Air-driven machines generally have a hose length of 200 feet, plus a ten foot whip hose, for a total of 210 feet. To get a machine closer to the work area, some manufacturers have created portable machines that can be moved to the desired location. The hose pressure generally has the capacity of up to 2000 to 2500 PSI (pounds per square inch) for spray foam applications. This is adequate to accommodate home interior spray foam insulation projects.

Hydraulic machines are generally designed to accommodate up to 300 feet of hose depending upon the manufacturer, power, and pressure. These hoses have the capacity of up to 3000 to 3500 PSI for Polyurea applications. Keep in mind that Polyurea applications generally require high output machines with high pressure/high volume capacity. A lower pressure specialty Polyurea exists; however, it is not cost effective to complete large-scale projects with lower pressure/lower output equipment and hoses.

Shore power versus a generator: If electricity is available where the spraying will take place, then plugging into a power source at the job site can eliminate the need for a generator. Thus, a savings can be realized. Be aware that plugging into every job site is not always an option; however, a generator can be rented as needed. The spray rig must be wired for shore power to use this option.

Length of the spray rig: Those who serve residential customers often prefer a shorter trailer so that it is easier to park in tighter places. Those who work in large commercial applications may opt for a longer trailer because they need enough space for a lot of material drums. Anticipate how much space you will need for all equipment and material drums.

 

Should I Buy a Cheaper Rig to Save Money?

Cheap spray rigs, that are new, can be found easily on the market; however, cheap spray rigs are cheap for reasons that most novices do not understand. Cheap equipment is often of inferior quality and will not serve its purpose over long-term use. It is more likely to break down and need parts more often. Parts for cheap machines are often made in other countries and may be difficult to obtain in a timely manner. Cheaper machines often have more expensive parts. When your cheaper equipment breaks down, your job is shut down until repairs are made. This is costly and often a major reason that companies lose business quickly.

Don’t believe everything you read on the Internet. The Internet is full of misinformation. There are several questions one should ask before buying any spray rig. It is best to check with a reputable consultant, who is not involved in the sale, to provide you with unbiased information and recommendations.

 

Basic Questions to Ask When Buying a Spray Rig:

Is the rig insulated?

Does it have a heater to keep the interior above 70 degrees at night and during all weather conditions?

Does the trailer or truck have the proper axel strength to accommodate the weight of the equipment and the material drums?

Does the design of the rig allow for easy access to the generator and proper weight distribution of all it will hold?

Is there enough room for a work area?

Is there interior and exterior lighting?

Are the walls, ceilings and floor finished for cleaning and maintenance purposes?

Is there a proper hose rack? Hose racks should be metal (semi-circular shape) and mounted on the wall so that the hose can be wrapped properly to maintain its longevity.

If there is a gas or diesel generator, is the trailer vented properly? Is there a pull-out for operating it outdoors?

Is there a ramp door or lift gate for moving material drums on and off the trailer or truck?

Does the rig have all the necessary safety equipment?

What does the entire spray rig quote include?

 

 

Other Important Considerations When Purchasing SPF Equipment

Note: “SPF” is an acronym or short term for Spray Polyurethane Foam.

Is the price reasonable for the spray rig? Comparison shopping is a must for equipment quotes from different distributors. One distributor may include items or different brands that another does not for the same price. View each item and compare it with other quotes.

What does “Turnkey” mean? Turnkey can be somewhat of an ambiguous term that denotes that a spray rig is complete and ready to perform on the job site. The ambiguity comes from how the word “turnkey” is defined by the distributor. Compare quotes for similar rigs and see how the contents and quality of the brands differ. Generally, quotes from different distributors will only vary about 5%. The practice of comparison shopping will help guard you against sellers who have less than professional business practices. Be aware of generalizations and vague terminology. Ask for clarification on anything you are unsure of.   

Is training included in the purchase of a new spray rig? How does the seller define “training”? There is a difference between training someone how to operate the equipment and training as a means of teaching someone how to spray. Ideally, training should include operation, maintenance, and how to spray. Almost all problems a company may experience on the job site boils down to a lack of expertise in trouble-shooting equipment. Inadequate trouble-shooting skills can cost a company thousands of dollars.

Extra spray gun, parts, tools, and lubricants: It is a wise idea to have more than one spray gun. In the event one spray gun stops functioning, the applicator can pick up the second gun and keep spraying. Down time is one of the worst things that can happen while on the job. Time lost on the job means less profits and/or ending up in the red by not being prepared. Make sure you have the proper tools to work on your spray gun and equipment. Extra O-ring kits, mixing chambers, filters, and other spray gun parts should always be on hand.

Masks and fresh air supply systems: Following OSHA safety standard is a must, especially for those spraying indoors, in attics and crawl spaces. Follow OSHA recommendations for the appropriate type of masks and fresh air systems for each job.

Cleaning solvents: Solvents are needed to clean spray guns, purge hoses and flush the machine. Use only solvents that are made specifically for cleaning these items. Cutting corners by using unspecified products can cause damage and a host or problems that are difficult, and sometimes impossible, to remedy. Improper use of solvents can result in fire, health consequences, and environmental hazards. Always read the label and following the instructions carefully for use and safety precautions. Never use products that are not designed for cleaning your equipment. Remember, you are obligated to protect yourself as well as your employees.

 

Can I Save Money Buying a Used Spray Foam Rig?

It might surprise you to know that buying new equipment if often less expensive than buying used. Many new to the industry assume that buying used equipment is going to save them money. This is often not the case. Buying used spray rigs is different from buying a used car. There are so many intricacies to be aware of that the novice often overlooks. Purchasing a used rig often means that at least some equipment will have to be replaced, rebuilt, or repaired. This adds to the cost of the used rig. By the time all the additional costs are added in, there is no savings. Unless you are willing to pay a consultant to check out a used rig, a novice is better served purchasing new equipment whenever possible.

More experienced contractors are more likely to be aware of the pitfalls inherent in  used rigs. They often have expert equipment mechanics that understand what to look for and how to replace parts and/or rebuild equipment. Experienced contractors may find a bargain in a used spray rig because they can negotiate the finer points and have the expertise and financial backing to deal with most problems.

Keep in mind that spray foam equipment is designed to create chemistry on the job site. There are no shortcuts in producing a professional application. The equipment must perform correctly, every time, which also requires a certain level of knowledge and expertise on the part of the operator. Anything less is not worth doing and can result in having to remove the foam, loss of revenue, and potential legal liability.

 

The Value of Warranties and Tech Support

Most new SPF equipment distributors offer warranties and tech support with your purchase. Buying a used spray rig (through private individuals) means that there is no warranty or tech support. Having tech support can make or break someone who is new to the industry. When an issue with equipment occurs, all they need to do is pick up the phone and contact their equipment distributor. A tech expert can walk you through the problem or help you get parts quickly. No tech support means that your job will most likely be shut down, and you are on your own to solve the problem. Your other option is to pay a consultant to help you.

 

It is next to impossible to provide the reader with the exact cost of a spray rig because each person has a set of needs that must be evaluated. The contractor’s intended purpose for buying a spray rig, i.e. the type of projects he/she wants to spray, and budget must be considered. Spray foam machines are designed for different types of projects. This article provides first-time buyers with an overview of consideration when making a purchase.  Remember to seek expert advice, compare quotes, and educate yourself to make informed decisions.

 

For more general information and questions, contact

Spray Foam Insider at 330-209-9019

 

Spray Foam & Polyurea Spray Rig Consultant:

Steve Eddy & Associates at 616-514-8359