Protect Your Indoor Air Quality — Identify and Assess Harmful Vapours from Defective Foam Insulation

Construction foam, also known as spray polyurethane foam or expanding foam, plays a vital role in modern building practices. It insulates homes, seals small structural gaps, and improves energy efficiency by reducing air leaks around windows, doors, and other fixtures. When properly applied and fully cured, this material is both safe and effective.

However, problems can arise when the foam is not cured properly during installation. Incomplete curing may lead to the release of toxic vapours and chemical residues that persist in the indoor environment, causing unpleasant odours, respiratory irritation, or other health concerns. These emissions are often difficult to identify without specialized laboratory testing.

Our Testing Service

At LCS Laboratory Inc., we have developed a specialized analytical procedure to investigate vapour emissions from construction foam. Our method is designed to detect and assess harmful chemical compounds that may be present in improperly cured foam products.

Our procedure includes:

  • Collection and solvent extraction of defective foam samples
  • Identification of volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) using Gas Chromatography coupled with Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
  • Evaluation of potential toxicity based on established residential indoor air quality guidelines

By comparing the detected chemicals against health-based exposure limits, our report can help determine whether the product poses a risk to building occupants or requires remediation.

Why This Matters

Homeowners, property managers, and contractors may face occupant complaints, health concerns, or even legal claims if building materials release harmful vapours. Our testing service helps you:

  • Pinpoint the source of unexplained indoor air quality issues
  • Identify harmful or unexpected chemical emissions
  • Document product performance and support warranty or insurance claims
  • Gain peace of mind by ensuring a safe indoor environment

Trust the Experts

With years of experience in indoor air quality, industrial hygiene, and chemical analysis, LCS Laboratory Inc. is uniquely equipped to assess construction foam emissions. Our ISO 17025-accredited laboratory ensures accurate, defensible results that you can rely on.

Contact Us

To discuss your project, get more information, or request a quote, please contact LCS Laboratory Inc. today.

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