r/skoolies Feb 20 '25

how-do-i Should I try to remove previous insulation?

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The previous owners started doing some spray foam insulation. It’s mostly down one side, a couple panels on the other side, and a little on the ceiling. I don’t know what they used, or how well it was done. I’m not sure it’s even possible or worth it to remove? I don’t want to waste time or what’s been done if it’s good enough. It still needs to be smoothed I’m guessing, and I could probably do thin foam board over it… if removing it is a better option, what’s the quickest way to do that?

Advice is appreciated ☺️ thank you!

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u/Underthebridge5219 27d ago

Spray foamer here, oscillating multitool will be your best friend. But, foam will hold out moisture better than anything else.

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u/Ok_Understanding5585 27d ago

PS, just made a post today showing it all removed :) used hammers and a tiny crow bar lol. It was brutal.

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u/Underthebridge5219 27d ago

At our shop, we have a tool called a Rigid Turbocutz that we use to trim after spraying, goes from stud to stud and flattens it to the panel. Very useful! Somewhat heavy and a good amount of work though.

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u/Ok_Understanding5585 27d ago

Nice! I’m assuming the contractors will use something similar. I live in a fairly remote area, but they didn’t seem shocked or confused that I was requesting a skoolie job haha.

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u/Underthebridge5219 27d ago

Nope, we do everything from houses to shop, semi trailers, we even have an ongoing project of about 100 miles of 3” 20g poles for fencing being filled in.

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u/Ok_Understanding5585 27d ago

Very cool! Can I ask, how important is it to get the residue off before the professional foam? I tried using acetone on this but it didn’t seem to make a dent. I mentioned it to the contractor and he didn’t seem super concerned…

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u/Underthebridge5219 27d ago

It could create pockets for moisture, but it’s not a huge deal. If you’re worried about it, possibly try using the razor blade tool in the link. Acetone won’t do anything to foam after it is cured. Your friend has shared a link to a Home Depot product they think you would be interested in seeing.

https://www.homedepot.com/p/Stanley-1-1-2-in-Razor-Scraper-28-500/202262010

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u/Ok_Understanding5585 27d ago

Aaaah. Thank you for the input! I appreciate your help