Great Stuff™ Window & Door Insulating Foam Sealant is a versatile product that plays a crucial role in air sealing and home retrofit applications. It adheres well to various materials, including metal, masonry, glass, and most plastics.
Typically, it is used to seal electrical wire penetrations, gas line penetrations, or plumbing and pipe penetrations, offering a reliable solution for various applications.
In this article, we’ll explore the drying time of Great Stuff, its waterproof properties, and how to fasten the drying process. Additionally, we’ll discuss the lifespan of Great Stuff and the proper handling of the product after opening the can.
How Long Does Great Stuff Take to Dry?
One of the primary concerns when working with Great Stuff is its drying time. The good news is that this product dries relatively quickly, making it convenient for various applications.
Great Stuff™ is tack-free in 5 – 15 minutes, and it becomes rigid after curing, which usually takes about 60 minutes. Once cured, it is paintable, stainable, and sandable, allowing easy customization and finishing.
This quick setting time means you can proceed with further steps, such as trimming and painting, within a reasonable timeframe.
However, for it to be fully cured, you should allow approximately 12 hours after application. This UL-classified product ensures that the foam has been set properly and is ready to perform its sealing duties effectively. After curing, it forms a durable bond resistant to moisture and air infiltration.
How Do You Make Great Stuff Foam Dry Faster?
In some situations, you may want to expedite the drying process of Great Stuff foam. Specifically, here are the tips you can try to speed up the drying time:
● Introduce Moisture
Expanding polyurethane foam sealant, like Great Stuff, requires moisture to expand and cure. If you’re working on a dry surface or in an environment with low humidity, misting the area before applying the foam can help accelerate the drying process. It provides the necessary conditions for the foam to cure rapidly.
Read also: How Long Does Spray Foam Take to Dry?
● Increase Humidity
Humidity plays a crucial role in the curing process of polyurethane foam. The higher the humidity levels, the faster the foam will cure.
Therefore, if you’re in an arid dry environment, you can further speed up the drying time by increasing the humidity in the vicinity. This can be achieved using a humidifier or introducing more moisture into the air.
● Apply Thin Layers
When using Great Stuff, consider applying thinner layers of foam rather than thick ones. Thicker layers take longer to cure because the foam in the center may not receive enough air and moisture to cure efficiently. Meanwhile, thin layers allow for better air circulation and faster curing.
● Avoid Overapplication
Avoid overapplying the foam, as excessive thickness can extend drying time. Apply the foam in layers as needed, allowing each layer to cure before adding more. This prevents the foam from becoming too thick, impeding the curing process.
Read also: How Long Does Spray Foam Take to Dry?
How Long Does Great Stuff Last?
Additionally, is Great Stuff waterproof? Yes, Great Stuff™ not only excels in air sealing and offers water-resistant properties. This makes it an ideal choice for applications where moisture exposure is a concern. Its versatility extends to creating airtight seals around various surfaces, including those exposed to the elements.
When applied correctly, it forms a durable, airtight, and water-resistant bond to various surfaces, including vinyl, wood, composite, and metal.
The waterproof nature of Great Stuff makes it a reliable choice for sealing around windows and doors, where exposure to rain and humidity is common. When installed properly, it ensures that water won’t penetrate the sealed areas, providing long-lasting protection for your home.
So, how long does it last? When properly applied, a foam sealant like Great Stuff has an impressive lifespan, typically lasting anywhere from 80 to 100 years.
Closed-cell spray foam, in particular, offers enhanced durability. It means you can expect the foam to endure for the lifetime of your home, providing long-term protection and insulation.
However, it’s essential to consider the product’s shelf life after opening the can. Once opened, Great Stuff cans with the Smart Dispenser technology remain usable for approximately a month. If the foam gets on your skin, petroleum jelly can help remove it.
This technology allows you to reuse the cans for up to 30 days with the straw attached to the canister, making it a convenient and efficient option for ongoing projects. Clean the tip after the initial use to maintain the product’s effectiveness.
Lastly, how long does great stuff take to dry? As mentioned, it will become tack-free about 5 to 15 minutes after application and fully cured around 12 hours later. However, it’s important to note that the times may vary depending on your environment.
