How to Store and Dispose of Spray Foam Products Properly

Spray foam insulation is a powerful tool for improving energy efficiency, sealing air leaks, and enhancing comfort in both residential and commercial buildings. However, it’s important to handle these products responsibly—especially when it comes to storage and disposal. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY homeowner, following proper procedures helps protect your health, your property, and the environment.

Proper Storage Starts with Temperature Control

Spray foam kits—especially the two-component types—are sensitive to temperature changes. They should be stored in a temperature-controlled environment, ideally between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). If the product freezes or gets too hot, it can affect the chemical reaction during application, leading to poor foam quality or even total product failure. Avoid storing kits in garages, sheds, or vehicles during extreme weather conditions.

Keep Containers Upright and Secure

Always store spray foam tanks upright on a stable surface to prevent tipping or damage to hoses and nozzles. Make sure they are in a dry area, out of direct sunlight, and away from open flames or sparks. Tanks should remain sealed when not in use to prevent moisture from entering, which can clog the dispensing gun or render the foam unusable.

Label and Date Opened Kits

If you don’t use an entire kit at once, label it with the date it was opened. Most manufacturers recommend using the remainder within 30 days, depending on storage conditions. After this period, the chemicals may begin to degrade or become unbalanced, making them unreliable or unsafe to use. Always consult your product’s label or safety data sheet (SDS) for specific guidelines.

Ventilation and Safety During Use

While not strictly storage, it’s worth repeating: ensure you are working in a well-ventilated space, and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes gloves, eye protection, and a respirator or mask. Keeping your workspace clean and organized also reduces the chances of accidental spills or misuse.

Disposal: Don’t Treat Spray Foam as Regular Trash

Empty or partially used spray foam containers are considered hazardous waste in many areas due to the pressurized chemicals they contain. Never throw them in your regular trash or recycling bin unless your local regulations specifically allow it. Even “empty” tanks may still contain residual chemicals and propellants that pose risks if mishandled.

Contact Your Local Hazardous Waste Facility

The safest and most responsible way to dispose of unused spray foam or empty tanks is to contact your local hazardous waste disposal facility. They can guide you on drop-off procedures and may host collection events for materials like these. Some spray foam manufacturers also offer return or recycling programs—check the product packaging or company website for details.

Safe Disposal of Cured Foam

Fully cured spray foam—meaning the foam has expanded and hardened after application—is generally inert and can be disposed of with regular construction waste. However, any leftover uncured product should be handled as hazardous. Be careful when cleaning up spills or excess material, and never rinse it down drains or into the soil.

A Little Care Goes a Long Way

Proper storage and disposal of spray foam products is essential not only for safety but also for preserving the performance of your materials. Following these best practices can help extend product life, protect your health, and ensure you’re staying compliant with environmental regulations. Whether you’re wrapping up a weekend project or stocking supplies for your crew, a little extra care goes a long way.