Urea Formaldehyde Foam Insulation (UFFI)

What is UFFI?

Urea formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) was a low-density foam prepared at the installation site from a mixture of urea formaldehyde resin, an acidic foaming agent solution, and a propellant, usually compressed air. The mixture was pumped through a tube into cavities of a wall. Until it hardened, it looked and felt like shaving cream. It was usually white or cream coloured, although it may have been coloured blue.

Formaldehyde may be released from UFFI. At high concentrations it has a pungent odour; at lower concentrations it may have no detectable odour. Dosimeter testing is recommended as the best way for homeowners to measure the level of formaldehyde in their living areas. Homeowners carry out this testing by hanging two dosimeter test tubes in their home for a week. The tubes are sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Medical and Technical Problems Associated with UFFI

The majority of people living in UFFI homes report no ill effects from their insulation. But for some people, exposure to formaldehyde can result in irritation to the eyes, nose and throat; and in extreme cases nausea, vomiting and nose bleeds.

Formaldehyde is released from the foam in early stages as it cures or sets. UFFI changes over time giving off more or less of the gas. The amount of gas given off depends on the original composition, temperature and the amount of moisture available to the foam.

Formaldehyde, minor quantities of other gases, or particles from the foam may enter the living spaces of the home, if inside walls are not well sealed.

High moisture content in the cavity may cause fungus to grow on the foam or other materials in the insulated area. This is not a situation common to UFFI homes, but where it occurs, reactions similar to those triggered by the gas may result. However, the most common symptoms of reaction to the fungus are asthmatic in nature (intermittent breathing difficulties, wheezing, coughing, and a sense of constriction in the chest).

The major technical or operational problem with UFFI was that the installed product could not effectively be standardized because it was prepared on site. Even though the foam's ingredients may have been of the highest quality, the quality of the installed material was largely dependent upon the skill of the installer. Many of the problems eventually caused by UFFI were due to faulty installation.

Additional problems were created when the foam was installed in ceilings and attics and in brick and masonry structures. UFFI had only been accepted for the use in wall cavities in wood-frame structures.

Recognizable signs of material damage are blistered and peeling paint, the appearance of fungus on the paint, discolouration of finishes and corrosion of electrical boxes.

Acknowledgements: Consumer and Corporate Affairs Canada

  Private Laboratories which provide UFI testing