What's In Your Toolbox?

By Author: Andrew Richards
Total Articles: 32
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If you haven't got a foam gun lurking in there somewhere - then it's time to get writing to Santa. Builders, DIY experts and novices alike have some tools that they wouldn't be without and a foam gun is high up the list of these basic essentials. Foam guns are not a costly addition to your array of handy little tools; versatile and hard wearing they will come in useful for any number of jobs over the years. Any job that requires a little insulation, gap-filling or sealing will be a lot quicker and easier with a good quality foam gun to hand.
Papering over the cracks.

Well, you can paper over cracks, if you really must! However small cracks and cavities which can appear from time to time - especially in older houses - are usually better filled. The problem with these types of cracks and crevices is simply that they often are very small and fiddly. When filler or plaster are not an easy option the best way to fill them is with an expanding foam or silicone. As the foam will expand you'll need to cut away the excess once cured, which with some modern foams will be in a matter of hours. When using sealants or silicone ...
... there are a variety of tools available for smoothing off the finish but a dampened fingertip will be just as adequate and create a smooth finish. Using a foam gun makes the job easier and usually quicker, making getting rid of draughts and unsightly cracks a very short job indeed.
Cleanliness stops you swearing.

Whatever material you are applying using the gun, you'll need to clean the surface you're applying it to first. Most sealants, silicones, foams, mastics and adhesives don't like dust, grease or moisture. Many will stick badly or not all to the surface if it hasn't been prepared in advance. The results range from minor annoyance and wasted to material to particularly messy and disastrous results - especially with expanding foam!

As they say, cleanliness is next to godliness and it's downright crucial when it comes to keeping your foam gun in good working order. After each use you will need to run a foam cleaning solvent through the gun. If you don't the gun will be an absolute ‘blighter' to work with next time and most likely will not work at all. The only thing you'll be filling is the air around you - with some rather choice phrases. Properly cleaned after each use a well-made gun will have years of use in it, but left to get blocked it will take time and effort to get back into working condition. Cleaning solvents can be purchased along with the gun and foam, always check the instructions with these and handle with care.

For a selection of competitively priced, quality foam guns visit Somafix.co.uk today.