Remove Foam Insulation?

[cabranch47]

Hi, Been here a while and gleaned some great information. I am gutting what was once our kitchen (built on piers) and converting to a screen porch. I have removed the flooring. Planning on covering the existing substructure with strips of Ice & Water Shield to protect from water damage, and replacing the flooring with 5/4" treated deck boards. My problem is that there is sprayed-in foam insulation under the present flooring, flush with the tops of the floor joists. I am concerned that, if left in place, it will cause a water/moisture trap and perhaps rot the existing substructure. I am thinking that removing the foam is the best answer. Any thoughts on this would be appreciated.

 

[nadogail]

I would try to dissolve it with acetone.

 

[wingzero2sh]

Acetone works on uncured foam, not sure how it will work now. But this seems like alot more work.

 

[ryangibson0026]

Acetone is a solvent that dissolves uncured polyurethane foam and can be used to clean up foam before it cures. Acetone-based nail polish remover will also work to remove uncured foam. Unfortunately, these products don't have any effect on cured foam. Once it cures, you'll have to scrape or sand off unwanted foam.

 

[didit]

Just last week I attempted to remove sprayed on foam from the inside of a refrigerator. Still in recovery mode from shoulder surgery I had to work with only my left/opposite hand. I tried a few different solvents and determined it would be too messy, expensive and time consuming. That **** really sticks. I gave up and sent it to the scrapper.

I think you will be fine. Check and make sure it is closed cell foam. submerge a piece in water and test it. If it is closed cell, and I think it will be, it will act as a vapor barrier and be beneficial.

 

[tncatadjuster]

Any chance of a photo?

 

[TheEquineFencer]

This is a **** shoot....take 3000#+ pressure washer with a 0* tip and blast it loose?

 

[cabranch47]

Problem solved. After some more demo I found rotten sills/joists. Removed and replaced with PT lumber. Right thing to do. Thanks for all of your suggestions.

 

[saradanyal]

A hand sander with coarse paper will remove it, then you can paint it all. Once you are done it'll look just fine.