Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get foam off of my hands?

If the foam has not cured or hardened, use acetone or fingernail polish remover (with acetone). If the foam has hardened, there is no solvent that will remove it. It will not harm your skin and will wear off in several days. To remove cured foam from skin, use a pumice stone (available at most drug stores) and warm, soapy water. Then apply petroleum jelly to soften your skin.

How do I get foam off the side of my house?

If the foam has not cured or hardened, use acetone or fingernail polish remover (with acetone). There is no solvent that will remove cured polyurethane foam. Remove as much as possible with a dull scraper or a hacksaw blade and then try scrubbing the remaining film with a non-abrasive cleaner. If that does not work, gradually move up to more aggressive means including sanding, sandblasting and repainting.

Warning: When using acetone on surfaces such as sidings, always test a hidden section of the surface to make sure that the acetone does not discolor the surface.

How much foam is in a can of GREAT STUFF™?

The theoretical yield of a can of GREAT STUFF™ is measured in lineal feet of a 3/8”– 1/2” diameter bead. One 12 oz. can of GREAT STUFF™ has about 250 lineal feet. One 16 oz. can has about 335 feet. One 20 oz. can has about 420 feet. One 6 oz. can yields approximately 120 feet.

Can I insulate my walls with GREAT STUFF™?

GREAT STUFF™ sealants use moisture in the air to cure. They are designed to fill small cracks and gaps. The foam does not cure properly if it is used to fill large voids unless it is put down in layers and allowed to cure before the next layer is applied. Do not use GREAT STUFF™ to fill enclosed voids such as behind drywall or under tub surrounds.

Can I store GREAT STUFF™ if I don’t use the whole can?

The GREAT STUFF™ foam straw will seal itself shut if left sitting for more than 2 hours after its last use. Inserting a pipe cleaner sprayed with oil lubricant into the applicator straw may prolong the life of the product. Plan ahead, identify and list all possible applications before opening can.

What are the temperature limitations when using GREAT STUFF™?

The contents of a can of GREAT STUFF™ should be as close to room temperature as possible when dispensed.

Can I use GREAT STUFF™ to air-seal my electrical receptacles?

GREAT STUFF™ can be used around and behind electrical boxes and insulated wires, but should never be used inside a box where it may be exposed to bare copper wires.

How are latex products different from GREAT STUFF™?

There are two key differences between latex foam and GREAT STUFF™, which is a polyurethane foam:

Latex foams are typically "open cell" and, as a result, can take on water. In fact, the same properties that allow you to wash latex foam off your hands with water also mean that the cured foam can absorb water. This can cause wood rot or deterioration in areas where wet latex foam is next to wood, such as a window frame. In contrast, GREAT STUFF™ is a closed-cell foam. It forms a water-resistant outer coating when cured.
Latex foam does not expand. GREAT STUFF™ expands to thoroughly fill all voids and cavities making it an ideal air sealant.

Does GREAT STUFF™ come in different colors?

GREAT STUFF™ Gaps & Cracks and GREAT STUFF™ Big Gap Filler are both cream color. GREAT STUFF™ Window & Door is yellow. All may be painted after they are fully cured.

Can mice, insects or rodents chew through GREAT STUFF™?

Mice, raccoons and large pests, if determined enough, can chew though many materials, including GREAT STUFF™. When a barrier is needed for large pests, it is recommended a wire mesh be installed and GREAT STUFF™ applied generously on both sides of the mesh. For small insects and bugs, GREAT STUFF™ alone typically serves as an effective barrier.

Are GREAT STUFF™ products ozone friendly?

GREAT STUFF™ does not contribute to the depletion of ozone.

Can GREAT STUFF™ be used outdoors?

Yes, GREAT STUFF™ can be used outdoors. However, cured foam will discolor if exposed to ultraviolet light. Paint or coat foam for best results in outdoor applications.

Does GREAT STUFF™ contain formaldehyde?

No, GREAT STUFF™ does not contain any formaldehyde.

Where can I purchase GREAT STUFF™ products?

You can purchase GREAT STUFF™ at most local discount retailers or anywhere home improvement products are sold.

What is the difference between GREAT STUFF™ and GREAT STUFF™ Pro products?

There are four key differences between GREAT STUFF™ and GREAT STUFF™ Pro products:

GREAT STUFF™ uses a straw dispenser; GREAT STUFF™ Pro can be used with a gun tool applicator to dispense foam.
Size of cans.
Temperature dispensing range.
GREAT STUFF™ is cream colored; GREAT STUFF™ Pro Gaps & Cracks is orange colored

What precautions should I take when using GREAT STUFF™?

Prevent skin and eye contact by wearing gloves and protective eyewear.
Protect area near application with a drop cloth or newspaper.
Practice dispensing foam on newspaper before beginning your application.
Do not apply foam while smoking or near an open flame. Foam is flammable until cured.

How long does GREAT STUFF™ take to cure?

GREAT STUFF™ is tack free within approximately 15 minutes and cures fully in eight hours. The higher the humidity, the faster the foam will cure. Misting a layer of water on the surface, prior to dispensing the foam, will speed up the cure time.

What if I overfill a void?

Wait until the foam cures and trim excess with a sharp knife or serrated blade.

When do I need to use GREAT STUFF™ BIG GAP Filler?

When filling gaps and holes larger than 1/2 inch.

What surfaces/substances will GREAT STUFF™ not bond to?

GREAT STUFF™ will not bond to Teflon®, paste wax and some polyethylene plastics.

Will an unused can of GREAT STUFF™ ever expire?

Yes, that is why there is an expiration date printed on the bottom of each can of GREAT STUFF™. If you attempt to use a can after the expiration date and the product will not dispense, dispose of the can. Do not try to activate the can by pushing hard on the dispenser or puncturing the valve. These actions will likely result in an uncontrollable venting of the product that is very difficult to clean up.

Related Video
GREAT STUFF™ FAQ Video (1:10)
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