Coatings and Glues FAQs
Common (and not so common) Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions about Gluing, Protecting and Coating Foam
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What is Foam Coat?
Foam coat is made to protect and beautify your indoor and outdoor foam projects. Some provide a flexible coating, some are rock hard, some can be used in all weather conditions. Click the link for a rundown on all of our coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
How do I protect foam when it is outdoors?
Here are few things to help with defending against the elements.
Styroplast is 100% waterproof and UV resistant by itself, but latex house paint will protect against rain and UV rays on any of our coatings.
Create Coat and Exterior Foam Coat have the same resistance properties as concrete. Concrete sealers can also be used for further protection.
All Purpose Foam Coat can be made weather resistant when mixed with Boost or Bounce.
Stainfast is an excellent sealer that can also be used as a stain base.
Make sure your coatings are dry without cracks before exposing to any moisture. It may wash the coating away or prolong drying time.
What temperature ranges can your coatings be used in?
All of our Foam Coats can be used in subzero temperatures and can withstand the hottest temperatures (up to 120F). Many customers use our coatings in the deserts of Arizona and Nevada. Make sure your coating isn't exposing any foam or cracks. If water seeps through areas of uncoated foam and freezes it can cause cracks in the coating, so make sure foam exposed to freezing conditions is fully sealed.
Are any of your coatings clear?
Our coatings are fully visible. None of our coatings are clear.
Can I buy Foam Coat in bulk?
You can get bulk powdered foam coats at a much better price when purchased in 25 pound bulk boxes or 50 pound bags. We have excellent pallet rates. Styroplast product page shows quantity pricing. You can find 25 lb boxes with fixed shipping rates when you scroll down on each of the coating pages: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/foam-coats/
Can I use resin?
Resin will melt polystyrene foam. You can coat the foam with one of our coatings or a thick layer of Bounce or Foam Fusion to protect it from the resin.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water. Styroplast sticks to plastic, and although it cannot be easily peeled off it is not bonded.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water. - Styroplast sticks very well to wood as long as it doesn't have a gloss paint or other glossy finish on it. A more porous surface will have better adhesion.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too. Since Styroplast is an encapsulant, it probably won't come off polyurethane foam even if it doesn't stick well.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam. Styroplast is also used to coat EVA foam. It is super strong even when applied very thin, so you don't lose detail. It has a little bit of give, too. Here are some costumes that our customers have made using our products: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/cosplay-costumes/
What tools should I use to apply your coatings?
For larger projects our powder coatings can best be applied with a stucco brush or trowel. Smaller brushed can be used for smaller projects.
The little pour spouts that snap into the ridge of one gallon paint cans work well for applying to curved surfaces.
Styroplast is best applied with a trowel or a flexible paint pour spout.
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
How do I apply the powdered Foam Coats?
Fill big cracks and holes by applying a pasty mixture with a trowel. If using extruded foam (ie Blueboard or Pinkboard) roughen the surface with coarse sandpaper. Apply with a paintbrush, stucco brush, trowel, or hopper gun.
How thick should I apply the foam coat?
If you use one of our concrete coatings, Exterior Foam Coat or All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat, the strength will depend on the thickness. If you use Mesh and/or add Boost liquid fortifier you will greatly increase the strength.
Bounce with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener is strong even when apply very thin.
Styroploast can go on very thin and still give you great strength. Check out the videos on the Styroplast product page. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
Always do testing with some scrap foam to make sure it holds up to your needs.
How do I determine how much foam coat I need?
It depends on how much strength vs weight works for your project. Boost will strengthen all three powdered coatings so you can get a better strength to weight ratio. Bounce strengthens All Purpose Foam Coat. You can add additional coats if the first coat is not strong enough. Styroplast has the best strength to weight ratio.
Can I mix the foam coatings together?
We do not recommend mixing our foam coats together. Each has its own characteristics. The different ingredients might react with each other. We do have two fortifiers, Boost and Bounce, that can be mixed with our powdered foam coats. Bounce can only be mixed with All Purpose Foam Coat.
Can I add a second foam coat?
You can add as many coats as you want as long as the earlier coats have set up enough to be well adhered. If using Create Coat, add 50% Boost to thicken the water.
It is common to use a thin coat as a scratch coat that allows the second coat to adhere better. We recommend applying a scratch coat with Boost added to it when you coat XPS foam because it is very smooth and difficult to get the wet foam coat to stick.
Extra coats of Styroplast should be applied 2-12 hours after the first coat sets up. If you miss the 2-12 hours lightly sand before applying the next coat.
Can I paint/stain foam coat?
Our Foam Coats can be easily painted, and our powdered coatings can also be mixed with concrete dyes and pigments. If you need to cover already painted foam, add Boost to the powdered coating. Styroplast adheres well, but it does not dry clear and must be painted.
Can I use a paint sprayer or hopper gun to apply foam coat?
Foam Coat is too thick to spray with a paint sprayer, You can use a hopper gun to apply All Purpose and Exterior Foam Coat. It is much easier to spray over large areas than applying with a trowel. Look at the Coating video on this page. If you do use Boost, it is not longer diluted, you use it straight. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/flowerbeds/
Styroplast is difficult to apply with a hopper gun because it is so thick and dries quickly. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating. Create Coat is concrete-based, but is also very smooth, and of all our powdered coatings it's the easiest to sand.
Can Foam Coat be sanded? How do I get the Foam Coat to be smooth?
If you tap on the foam being coated, the foam coat will momentarily liquify to smooth out the brush lines and other imperfections.
You can also smooth foam coat with a metal trowel or putty knife.while it's setting up. Smooth curves using a piece of flexible rubber of plastic.The yellow paint pour spouts work great and are easy to clean.
Use a lightly dampened sponge for initial smoothing of our powdered foam coats. You will find the magic moment when the coating you are using can be best smoothed, and even wet sanded. Once our powdered foam coats dry they are difficult to sand smooth. You will need concrete grade sanding tools. Flap discs for concrete work best.
How do I keep my foam coat from bowing/warping?
The bowing of large thinner sheets of foam when coating has been a problem for many years. What we've noticed to work best was to put a 1/16″ wooden stringer through the board.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
I'm having a hard time getting All Purpose, Exterior and Create Coat coatings to stick to the foam.
Apply a thin wet scratch coat, let it dry, then the thicker coat will have something to grab. Using Boost instead of water will help the first coat to stick. If you are using the pink or blue XPS foam it is not only very smooth, but often has a waxy coating that repels foam coat and even glue. Lightly sand the surface of the foam to help adhesion.
You will find a variety of terrariums, animal habitats and aquariums that are beautified and protected by our coating in the habitats section of the gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/habitats/
How do I protect foam from wildlife?
When applied thick enough all of our coatings will be animal-proof.
Which foam coatings are best for movie, theater, haunt, and escape room props and backdrops?
All of our coatings are used for these venues. You’ll want to take a looks at each of our coatings and fortifiers to determine which is best for the prop or backdrop you are creating.
Foam Coat Comparisons: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
Did you discontinue Grit?
We no longer sell Grit as the Exterior Foam Coat now has the same texture as if you added Grit. For a very rough texture use a 3-inch stucco brush.
What is the shelf life of foam coat?
The powdered coatings will last for at least a year if kept sealed and in a dry location. If you find chunks of hardened coating you can usually break them up with a gloved hand, or you can screen them out. Stryoplast only has a shelf life of about 6 months. Part A will not last long at all if exposed to moisture while open.
How long does Foam Coat take to set up?
Working time:
All-Purpose: 10-20 minutes
Exterior: up to 1.5-3 hours
Create Coat: 10-15 minutes
Styroplast: 10-15 minutes
When is it dry to touch and paint:
All-Purpose: 3-4 hours
Exterior: 6-8 hours
Create Coat: 2-3 hours
Styroplast 2 hours
Time to reach maximum strength:
All-Purpose: 24 hrs
Exterior: up to 5 days
Create Coat: 24 hrs
Styroplast 24 hrs
Extend the working time of All Purpose Foam Coat by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing it into the dry foam coat. Exterior Foam Coat already has a long set up time of 1.8-3 hours. With Create Coat mix more water in if it starts setting up in the mixing container. Syroplast drying time can be extended by dehumidifying the workspace.
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength. Click the link below for a rundown of all our coatings. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
Do your coatings add a lot of weight?
Three of our powdered coatings are concrete based, but are stronger and lighter than concrete and can be applied thinner without losing strength. Styroplast is not only very lightweight but is stronger than any other foam coat so can be applied very thin. A fairly thin coat of foam coat mixed with Boost instead of water and applied over Mesh will be incredibly strong and fairly lightweight. Bounce mixed with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat to give it body is very lightweight and even a thin coat is very strong.
Do your foam coats hold up against harsh sunlight/UV light?
Foam Coats are UV resistant. When applied correctly our coatings should last for decades. Styroplast is UV resistant but should be painted with an exterior paint for permanence.
Is Foam Coat Fire Safe?
Our powdered coatings are concrete based so not only are they fire-safe, but they also inhibit fires. The MSDS sheets show that they are non-flammable, but they have not been officially rated. Some of our customers have had to spray their concrete based coating with the same fire prevention spray that is used for curtains in theaters to pass fire inspections. Styroplast is our only officially fire rated coatings.
What type of protection do I need?
When mixing any of our powdered coatings with the liquid ingredient a dust mask should be worn. When mixing Styroplast gloves and other skin protection should be used. If Styroplast or mixtures containing Boost dry on your skin they will not come off. Styroplast that has not dried will come off with acetone. Wet Boost can be washed off with soap and water. IMPORTANT: Read the warnings that come with your coating.
Are your foam coats nontoxic?
Our foam coats are non-toxic after they set up.
Our powdered coatings are modified concrete mixtures that contain silica sand, so you should wear a mask while mixing. They are VOC free.
Styroplast is a two part mix and the hardener is toxic to your skin, so wear gloves while mixing. Once Syroplast has hardened it is VOC free.
What do I use for interior renovations?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls and other interior projects, as they all have different textures.
Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will protect my foam sculptures and statues?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of sculptures made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Sculpture and Statues button.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets in campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
Exterior Foam Coat is completely waterproof, but we still recommend using a fish-safe aquarium sealant in order to make your habitat 100% pet-safe.
All Purpose Foam Coat is also used for reptile habitats, though it cannot be stained. A good water sealant is recommended if the pieces will be placed in water as All Purpose is not waterproof. It is perfectly safe and pet friendly.
What is the best for making Halloween props, tombstones, mausoleums, and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props, Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What are the best coatings for foam backdrops and terrain for terrariums, vivariums, reptile hides and habitats, aquariums and wildlife habitats?
All of our coatings will work with different effects. Exterior Foam Coat is very inert and is often used for reptile hides and animal enclosures. It has a natural rock-like texture which can be easily exaggerated or smoothed while it sets up. Create Coat is also water resistant but is very smooth and doesn't stick well to itself so you can't layer it unless you add Boost to it. We recommend applying a pet-safe aquarium sealer over your project once the Foam Coat is fully cured.
Styroplast, which is animal-safe, is plastic so you will have to work a bit to make it look like stone. One of our customers shows in a video how he put Grit on the Styroplast as is was drying to get a stone effect for his miniature gaming terrain. We no longer carry Grit, but you can use sand instead.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling. Some other options are Create Coat with Boost added, which gives a limestone look and feel. Exterior can be used as well, giving a rougher texture You can paint directly on both of these with any kind of paint. You have to paint Styroplast between 2-12 hours after it sets up.
What coatings do you recommend for party and event Planners who make props out of foam?
We have customers making props for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, festivals, parades, concerts, sports events, fashion events, charity events, bar mitzvahs, baby showers, and more. They coat their props and signs with everything from paint, to Styropplast, to All Purpose Foam Coat to Exterior Foam Coat, to Create Coat. Here are just a few examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/parties-events/ The coatings they used are listed at the bottom of each gallery page.
What are the best coatings for foam exhibits, theme park props and public attractions? (Including zoos, haunts and museum displays.)
All 4 of our coatings and both of our fortifiers are used for these types of displays. You will find a variety of exhibits and props that are beautified and protected by our coating in the Foam Artist Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/exhibits-attractions/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
How should I coat my 3D foam murals and wall art, bas relief, and foam relief art?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Wall Art button.
What is the best coating for Christmas yard ornaments like life-sized gingerbread house, snowmen, and Santa Claus props?
Any of our 4 coatings will work well for this. Here are a few that our customers have built: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills, mountains. and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. Ror a rugged stone look use Exterior Foam Coat. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. Here are helpful examples: Model Railroad Scenery Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable. Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well. If weight is not an issue then Create Coat will be a good option. You will find a couple of good examples here: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coating go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco. All Purpose and Create Coat look and feel like drywall. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best foam coat for foam walls?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls. They all have different textures. Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best coating for model bricks and cobblestone roads and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is All-Purpose Foam Coat?
Easy to use - simply mix with water. It's tough yet still sandable. It is inherently fire resistant. Can be used outdoors when sealed with any outdoor paint, or mixed with Boost liquid fortifier, or Bounce liquid rubberizer. Apply thick with a trowel or thin with a paintbrush. Sets up in only about 15 minutes. Extend the drying time by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing into the dry foam coat.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills and mountains and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel.
What's the best coating for Village Displays?
For a realistic rock or earth All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. For a smooth, almost snow white finish use Create Coat. You can find artists using this method on their villages in our Gallery from the link below. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well.
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coatings go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for model bricks, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is Exterior Foam Coat?
This stuff is super tough. It is not sandable. Has a rough stone feel when dry. It can be troweled smooth, or brushed to make a super rough finish. Can also be applied with a hopper gun. Withstands all weather conditions. It's been used everywhere, from the hot Arizona deserts to the freezing Canadian winters. Can be used below grade. Popular for coating foam homes and EIFS panels.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to bond two sheets of foam together?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat to bond foam together, but you won't be able to cut through it. If you are hanging it vertically, you might consider adding Boost fortifier as your liquid ingredient to greatly improve adhesion.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to coat my bath and shower walls?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat for bathrooms and shower stalls. If going over a material besides foam, use Boost, at least for a first thin coat, for better adhesion, and a straight Exterior Foam Coat after that. Then apply a thin clear epoxy coat over everything. otherwise it will be very difficult to clean.
will exterior foam coat stick to Styroplast?
Before trying to use Exterior Foam Coat over Styroplast, You should lightly sand the Styroplast and then use Boost instead of water for the liquid ingredient to make the Exterior stick to the Styroplast.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
Exterior Foam Coat is completely water proof, but we still recommend using an aquarium sealer over the entire project to make it 100% pet safe.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco.
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Create Coat?
Creamy-smooth, white, rock-hard, cement-like foam finish. Use directly on foam. Easy to make it look just like wood, stone, metal and bone. Use indoors or out. Rain, freeze, and sun resistant. Perfect base for creating gorgeous natural tints with acid stains or our StainFast water based stain system. Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
Can I add multiple layers of Create Coat?
Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
I was wondering how well the Create coat (+ Boost) would adhere to stucco?
When you add Boost to Create Coat it will stick well to almost any surface. But, Create Coat is so smooth and water resistant that I don't think stucco will stick to it. If the gaps are not more than 1/4- inch why not fill them with Create Coat instead of stucco? All Purpose Foam Coat is a good filler and can go on at least 1/4-inch thick. Create Coat will stick directly to All Purpose Foam Coat.
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
What is the best coating for hills, mountains, and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is Styroplast?
Styroplast is a super strong brush-on plastic coating. This is also the best coating for retaining detail. Use our Syringe for accurately mixing small batches. Click on the link for more information: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
How can I extend the working time for Styroplast?
Styroplast dries incredibly fast, especially in humid environments. A dehumidifier will help extend the work time. Other than that, we recommend having two people present when working with Styroplast on larger projects: one to pour/apply it and one to smooth it out as it's being applied.
What type of paint is compatible with the Styroplast? Can I mix pigments with Styroplast?
You can use any kind of paint as long as you paint or primer between 2-12 hours after the Styroplast sets up. Epoxy primer sticks so well to Styroplast that you can paint it long after the 12 hour limit needed by other paints, and epoxy paint is one of the best paints for water craft.
Why is my Stryoplast expanding and foaming?
We have seen this happen several times. It is usually caused by exposure to moisture, even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open can will have a much shorter shelf life. Also, exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up like that.
Do I need a professional power mixer for Styroplast?
You can mix a quart or two by hand without any problem. If you are using a whole gallon you should use a drill set at slow speed with a cheap mixer attached.See the Hot Dog video at the bottom of this page showing how it is mixed with a drill and small mixer: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
What are the best tools for applying Styroplast?
You can apply it with a paint brush, but soft squeegees (like paint can drip guards) work even better.
The white, Part B, is very thick which makes it hard to mix and apply with a brush
If you warm Part B to about 75F it will loosen up quite a bit.
How do I clean the mixing syringe after use?
Always start with Part A, followed by Part B. Make sure it's just empty it after using, and store in a plastic bag. Watch the video with the lady mixing Styroplast and loading and storing her syringes: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Can I add another coat of Styroplast?
You can add multiple layers of Styroplast during the 2-12 hour work time. However, we have recoated after 12 hours with good results. Rough up the first coat where the overlap will be. After faring in the overlap you can't tell where the seam is.
Do you sell Styroplast in smaller sizes?
Currently, we only sell Styroplast in 1-gallon sizes. You must mix exact proportions. We sell a Measuring Syringe. Watch the video to see how you can use a single syringe multiple times. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Why did my Styroplast can leak?
Styroplast may expand and start foaming when exposed to moisture. Even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up and possibly leak out of the can. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open bottle will have a much shorter shelf life.
If I open the Styroplast can do I have to use it all at one time, or do I have time to use it up?
Part A, the hardener, will not last long after opening. The more moisture it is exposed to, the faster it will go bad. If it becomes foamy then don't use it. Bart B will last for up to a year after opening. You can special order Part A, if needed.
Is there any way to remove dried Styroplast from my skin?
I don't think there is anything that will dissolve Styroplast once it is dry. After a day or two your outer layer of skin will slough off with the Styroplast.
Is there anything I can add to Styroplast when mixing to thin the product?
Leave Part B, the white part, in a warm place overnight so it becomes less viscous. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Can I spray Styroplast instead of brushing it on?
Styroplast is made as a brush on material. That is why it is so thick. Spraying with a hopper gun is possible, but protective clothing and respirators must be used because once it becomes an aerosol it can be inhaled and enter eyes and skin. Also, it must be thinned. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling.
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
What is Boost?
When Boost liquid fortifier is mixed with any of our powdered foam coats it makes them incredibly strong and weatherproof, plus makes it stick to almost anything! https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B_BoostLiquidFortifier.html
Will Boost stick to [...]?
Exterior Foam Coat with Boost sticks well to all the plastics we've tested it on except polyethylene. It wouldn't hurt to rough up the surface with some 80-grit sandpaper before applying it.
If I mix Boost in with my foam coat, will it help it stick to other materials besides foam?
If you rough up the surface of the surface you wish to coat with 80 grit sandpaper and mix your foam coat with Boost instead of water, there's a good chance it will stick. We've had lots of success doing this with various metals, wood, painted surfaces, and plastics except for polyethylene.
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is Bounce?
Add small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat to Bounce to create a flexible protective coating that is highly resistant to cracking. Use as a thin coating to retain details but still add great protection. For a super rubbery coating, add 1 part Foam Coat to 5 parts Bounce. Bounce also weatherproofs All Purpose Foam Coat. If you use water and Bounce you will get a chip resistant surface that is not rubbery. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
Can Bounce be used by itself?
Bounce can be used by itself, but only as a sealant or as a light adhesive. Cosplay artists are using Bounce to coat EVA foam so paints will adhere to it.
How should I mix All Purpose with Bounce?
Usually Bounce is the main ingredient and All Purpose Foam Coat is added in small amounts. This produces a thin and somewhat rubbery coating that still looks like stone. It's great where you want to protect from breakage but you don't want to lose the details in your foam carving.
When using bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat, can I add acrylic paint to tint the mixture?
We have tried adding acrylic latex paint to Bounce, but it reacted badly, causing it to goober up. We haven't tried using straight concrete pigments or tints but this should work fine.
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees.
What is the best coating for model brick textures, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
or the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is StainFast?
StainFast is used with water-based pigments along with Exterior or Create Coat. It looks like real stone!
Does foam coat need to be dry or fully cured before staining with StainFast?
You should wait until it is dry, but it doesn't need to be fully cured. It's a sealer, not a coating so it will allow the concrete to continue to cure.
Can I use StainFast on any concrete? Like concrete walls or patios?
We have tried spraying StainFast on a concrete patio. It seemed to absorb more, so we used a higher pigment to StainFast ratio and it worked very well. The colors are still saturated a couple of years later. It's in a low traffic area. We would use an off-the-shelf concrete sealer if it were in a high traffic area.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Mesh used for?
Mesh can be used with any of our coatings to add a tremendous amount of strength. It works well over contoured surfaces. Mesh should be used where there might be any movement between sheets of foam coat that are butted or glued together. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is Foam Coat?
Foam coat is made to protect and beautify your indoor and outdoor foam projects. Some provide a flexible coating, some are rock hard, some can be used in all weather conditions. Click the link for a rundown on all of our coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
How do I protect foam when it is outdoors?
Here are few things to help with defending against the elements.
Styroplast is 100% waterproof and UV resistant by itself, but latex house paint will protect against rain and UV rays on any of our coatings.
Create Coat and Exterior Foam Coat have the same resistance properties as concrete. Concrete sealers can also be used for further protection.
All Purpose Foam Coat can be made weather resistant when mixed with Boost or Bounce.
Stainfast is an excellent sealer that can also be used as a stain base.
Make sure your coatings are dry without cracks before exposing to any moisture. It may wash the coating away or prolong drying time.
What temperature ranges can your coatings be used in?
All of our Foam Coats can be used in subzero temperatures and can withstand the hottest temperatures (up to 120F). Many customers use our coatings in the deserts of Arizona and Nevada. Make sure your coating isn't exposing any foam or cracks. If water seeps through areas of uncoated foam and freezes it can cause cracks in the coating, so make sure foam exposed to freezing conditions is fully sealed.
Are any of your coatings clear?
Our coatings are fully visible. None of our coatings are clear.
Can I buy Foam Coat in bulk?
You can get bulk powdered foam coats at a much better price when purchased in 25 pound bulk boxes or 50 pound bags. We have excellent pallet rates. Styroplast product page shows quantity pricing. You can find 25 lb boxes with fixed shipping rates when you scroll down on each of the coating pages: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/foam-coats/
Can I use resin?
Resin will melt polystyrene foam. You can coat the foam with one of our coatings or a thick layer of Bounce or Foam Fusion to protect it from the resin.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water. Styroplast sticks to plastic, and although it cannot be easily peeled off it is not bonded.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water. - Styroplast sticks very well to wood as long as it doesn't have a gloss paint or other glossy finish on it. A more porous surface will have better adhesion.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too. Since Styroplast is an encapsulant, it probably won't come off polyurethane foam even if it doesn't stick well.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam. Styroplast is also used to coat EVA foam. It is super strong even when applied very thin, so you don't lose detail. It has a little bit of give, too. Here are some costumes that our customers have made using our products: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/cosplay-costumes/
What tools should I use to apply your coatings?
For larger projects our powder coatings can best be applied with a stucco brush or trowel. Smaller brushed can be used for smaller projects.
The little pour spouts that snap into the ridge of one gallon paint cans work well for applying to curved surfaces.
Styroplast is best applied with a trowel or a flexible paint pour spout.
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
How do I apply the powdered Foam Coats?
Fill big cracks and holes by applying a pasty mixture with a trowel. If using extruded foam (ie Blueboard or Pinkboard) roughen the surface with coarse sandpaper. Apply with a paintbrush, stucco brush, trowel, or hopper gun.
How thick should I apply the foam coat?
If you use one of our concrete coatings, Exterior Foam Coat or All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat, the strength will depend on the thickness. If you use Mesh and/or add Boost liquid fortifier you will greatly increase the strength.
Bounce with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener is strong even when apply very thin.
Styroploast can go on very thin and still give you great strength. Check out the videos on the Styroplast product page. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
Always do testing with some scrap foam to make sure it holds up to your needs.
How do I determine how much foam coat I need?
It depends on how much strength vs weight works for your project. Boost will strengthen all three powdered coatings so you can get a better strength to weight ratio. Bounce strengthens All Purpose Foam Coat. You can add additional coats if the first coat is not strong enough. Styroplast has the best strength to weight ratio.
Can I mix the foam coatings together?
We do not recommend mixing our foam coats together. Each has its own characteristics. The different ingredients might react with each other. We do have two fortifiers, Boost and Bounce, that can be mixed with our powdered foam coats. Bounce can only be mixed with All Purpose Foam Coat.
Can I add a second foam coat?
You can add as many coats as you want as long as the earlier coats have set up enough to be well adhered. If using Create Coat, add 50% Boost to thicken the water.
It is common to use a thin coat as a scratch coat that allows the second coat to adhere better. We recommend applying a scratch coat with Boost added to it when you coat XPS foam because it is very smooth and difficult to get the wet foam coat to stick.
Extra coats of Styroplast should be applied 2-12 hours after the first coat sets up. If you miss the 2-12 hours lightly sand before applying the next coat.
Can I paint/stain foam coat?
Our Foam Coats can be easily painted, and our powdered coatings can also be mixed with concrete dyes and pigments. If you need to cover already painted foam, add Boost to the powdered coating. Styroplast adheres well, but it does not dry clear and must be painted.
Can I use a paint sprayer or hopper gun to apply foam coat?
Foam Coat is too thick to spray with a paint sprayer, You can use a hopper gun to apply All Purpose and Exterior Foam Coat. It is much easier to spray over large areas than applying with a trowel. Look at the Coating video on this page. If you do use Boost, it is not longer diluted, you use it straight. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/flowerbeds/
Styroplast is difficult to apply with a hopper gun because it is so thick and dries quickly. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating. Create Coat is concrete-based, but is also very smooth, and of all our powdered coatings it's the easiest to sand.
Can Foam Coat be sanded? How do I get the Foam Coat to be smooth?
If you tap on the foam being coated, the foam coat will momentarily liquify to smooth out the brush lines and other imperfections.
You can also smooth foam coat with a metal trowel or putty knife.while it's setting up. Smooth curves using a piece of flexible rubber of plastic.The yellow paint pour spouts work great and are easy to clean.
Use a lightly dampened sponge for initial smoothing of our powdered foam coats. You will find the magic moment when the coating you are using can be best smoothed, and even wet sanded. Once our powdered foam coats dry they are difficult to sand smooth. You will need concrete grade sanding tools. Flap discs for concrete work best.
How do I keep my foam coat from bowing/warping?
The bowing of large thinner sheets of foam when coating has been a problem for many years. What we've noticed to work best was to put a 1/16″ wooden stringer through the board.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
I'm having a hard time getting All Purpose, Exterior and Create Coat coatings to stick to the foam.
Apply a thin wet scratch coat, let it dry, then the thicker coat will have something to grab. Using Boost instead of water will help the first coat to stick. If you are using the pink or blue XPS foam it is not only very smooth, but often has a waxy coating that repels foam coat and even glue. Lightly sand the surface of the foam to help adhesion.
You will find a variety of terrariums, animal habitats and aquariums that are beautified and protected by our coating in the habitats section of the gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/habitats/
How do I protect foam from wildlife?
When applied thick enough all of our coatings will be animal-proof.
Which foam coatings are best for movie, theater, haunt, and escape room props and backdrops?
All of our coatings are used for these venues. You’ll want to take a looks at each of our coatings and fortifiers to determine which is best for the prop or backdrop you are creating.
Foam Coat Comparisons: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
Did you discontinue Grit?
We no longer sell Grit as the Exterior Foam Coat now has the same texture as if you added Grit. For a very rough texture use a 3-inch stucco brush.
What is the shelf life of foam coat?
The powdered coatings will last for at least a year if kept sealed and in a dry location. If you find chunks of hardened coating you can usually break them up with a gloved hand, or you can screen them out. Stryoplast only has a shelf life of about 6 months. Part A will not last long at all if exposed to moisture while open.
How long does Foam Coat take to set up?
Working time:
All-Purpose: 10-20 minutes
Exterior: up to 1.5-3 hours
Create Coat: 10-15 minutes
Styroplast: 10-15 minutes
When is it dry to touch and paint:
All-Purpose: 3-4 hours
Exterior: 6-8 hours
Create Coat: 2-3 hours
Styroplast 2 hours
Time to reach maximum strength:
All-Purpose: 24 hrs
Exterior: up to 5 days
Create Coat: 24 hrs
Styroplast 24 hrs
Extend the working time of All Purpose Foam Coat by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing it into the dry foam coat. Exterior Foam Coat already has a long set up time of 1.8-3 hours. With Create Coat mix more water in if it starts setting up in the mixing container. Syroplast drying time can be extended by dehumidifying the workspace.
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength. Click the link below for a rundown of all our coatings. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
Do your coatings add a lot of weight?
Three of our powdered coatings are concrete based, but are stronger and lighter than concrete and can be applied thinner without losing strength. Styroplast is not only very lightweight but is stronger than any other foam coat so can be applied very thin. A fairly thin coat of foam coat mixed with Boost instead of water and applied over Mesh will be incredibly strong and fairly lightweight. Bounce mixed with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat to give it body is very lightweight and even a thin coat is very strong.
Do your foam coats hold up against harsh sunlight/UV light?
Foam Coats are UV resistant. When applied correctly our coatings should last for decades. Styroplast is UV resistant but should be painted with an exterior paint for permanence.
Is Foam Coat Fire Safe?
Our powdered coatings are concrete based so not only are they fire-safe, but they also inhibit fires. The MSDS sheets show that they are non-flammable, but they have not been officially rated. Some of our customers have had to spray their concrete based coating with the same fire prevention spray that is used for curtains in theaters to pass fire inspections. Styroplast is our only officially fire rated coatings.
What type of protection do I need?
When mixing any of our powdered coatings with the liquid ingredient a dust mask should be worn. When mixing Styroplast gloves and other skin protection should be used. If Styroplast or mixtures containing Boost dry on your skin they will not come off. Styroplast that has not dried will come off with acetone. Wet Boost can be washed off with soap and water. IMPORTANT: Read the warnings that come with your coating.
Are your foam coats nontoxic?
Our foam coats are non-toxic after they set up.
Our powdered coatings are modified concrete mixtures that contain silica sand, so you should wear a mask while mixing. They are VOC free.
Styroplast is a two part mix and the hardener is toxic to your skin, so wear gloves while mixing. Once Syroplast has hardened it is VOC free.
What do I use for interior renovations?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls and other interior projects, as they all have different textures.
Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will protect my foam sculptures and statues?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of sculptures made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Sculpture and Statues button.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets in campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is pet aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains (StainFast was used to seal much of the concrete used in aquariums at Sea World San Diego!). If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
All Purpose Foam Coat is also used for reptile habitats, thought it cannot be stained. A good water sealant is recommended if the pieces will be placed in water as All Purpose is not waterproof. It is perfectly safe and pet friendly.
What is the best for making Halloween props, tombstones, mausoleums, and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props, Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What are the best coatings for foam backdrops and terrain for terrariums, vivariums, reptile hides and habitats, aquariums and wildlife habitats?
All of our coatings will work with different effects. Exterior Foam Coat is very inert and is often used for reptile hides and animal enclosures. It has a natural rock-like texture which can be easily exaggerated or smoothed while it sets up. Create Coat is also water resistant but is very smooth and doesn't stick well to itself so you can't layer it unless you add Boost to it. StainFast is a fantastic new sealant that is specially made for aquariums and terrariums. It is used to stain and seal Exterior Foam Coat and Create Coat. You can use StainFast with water base pigments, or if you just want to seal the Exterior Foam Coat or Create Coat you can just use it as an invisible sealer. Unlike all other sealers, it does not look at all shiny, so you are able to retain the utmost realism.
Styroplast, which is animal-safe, is plastic so you will have to work a bit to make it look like stone. One of our customers shows in a video how he put Grit on the Styroplast as is was drying to get a stone effect for his miniature gaming terrain. We no longer carry Grit, but you can use sand instead.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling. Some other options are Create Coat with Boost added, which gives a limestone look and feel. Exterior can be used as well, giving a rougher texture You can paint directly on both of these with any kind of paint. You have to paint Styroplast between 2-12 hours after it sets up.
What coatings do you recommend for party and event Planners who make props out of foam?
We have customers making props for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, festivals, parades, concerts, sports events, fashion events, charity events, bar mitzvahs, baby showers, and more. They coat their props and signs with everything from paint, to Styropplast, to All Purpose Foam Coat to Exterior Foam Coat, to Create Coat. Here are just a few examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/parties-events/ The coatings they used are listed at the bottom of each gallery page.
What are the best coatings for foam exhibits, theme park props and public attractions? (Including zoos, haunts and museum displays.)
All 4 of our coatings and both of our fortifiers are used for these types of displays. You will find a variety of exhibits and props that are beautified and protected by our coating in the Foam Artist Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/exhibits-attractions/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
How should I coat my 3D foam murals and wall art, bas relief, and foam relief art?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Wall Art button.
What is the best coating for Christmas yard ornaments like life-sized gingerbread house, snowmen, and Santa Claus props?
Any of our 4 coatings will work well for this. Here are a few that our customers have built: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills, mountains. and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. Ror a rugged stone look use Exterior Foam Coat. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. Here are helpful examples: Model Railroad Scenery Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable. Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well. If weight is not an issue then Create Coat will be a good option. You will find a couple of good examples here: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coating go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco. All Purpose and Create Coat look and feel like drywall. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best foam coat for foam walls?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls. They all have different textures. Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best coating for model bricks and cobblestone roads and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is All-Purpose Foam Coat?
Easy to use - simply mix with water. It's tough yet still sandable. It is inherently fire resistant. Can be used outdoors when sealed with any outdoor paint, or mixed with Boost liquid fortifier, or Bounce liquid rubberizer. Apply thick with a trowel or thin with a paintbrush. Sets up in only about 15 minutes. Extend the drying time by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing into the dry foam coat.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills and mountains and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel.
What's the best coating for Village Displays?
For a realistic rock or earth All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. For a smooth, almost snow white finish use Create Coat. You can find artists using this method on their villages in our Gallery from the link below. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well.
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coatings go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for model bricks, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is Exterior Foam Coat?
This stuff is super tough. It is not sandable. Has a rough stone feel when dry. It can be troweled smooth, or brushed to make a super rough finish. Can also be applied with a hopper gun. Withstands all weather conditions. It's been used everywhere, from the hot Arizona deserts to the freezing Canadian winters. Can be used below grade. Popular for coating foam homes and EIFS panels.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to bond two sheets of foam together?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat to bond foam together, but you won't be able to cut through it. If you are hanging it vertically, you might consider adding Boost fortifier as your liquid ingredient to greatly improve adhesion.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to coat my bath and shower walls?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat for bathrooms and shower stalls. If going over a material besides foam, use Boost, at least for a first thin coat, for better adhesion, and a straight Exterior Foam Coat after that. Then apply a thin clear epoxy coat over everything. otherwise it will be very difficult to clean.
will exterior foam coat stick to Styroplast?
Before trying to use Exterior Foam Coat over Styroplast, You should lightly sand the Styroplast and then use Boost instead of water for the liquid ingredient to make the Exterior stick to the Styroplast.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains. If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco.
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Create Coat?
Creamy-smooth, white, rock-hard, cement-like foam finish. Use directly on foam. Easy to make it look just like wood, stone, metal and bone. Use indoors or out. Rain, freeze, and sun resistant. Perfect base for creating gorgeous natural tints with acid stains or our StainFast water based stain system. Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
Can I add multiple layers of Create Coat?
Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
I was wondering how well the Create coat (+ Boost) would adhere to stucco?
When you add Boost to Create Coat it will stick well to almost any surface. But, Create Coat is so smooth and water resistant that I don't think stucco will stick to it. If the gaps are not more than 1/4- inch why not fill them with Create Coat instead of stucco? All Purpose Foam Coat is a good filler and can go on at least 1/4-inch thick. Create Coat will stick directly to All Purpose Foam Coat.
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
What is the best coating for hills, mountains, and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is Styroplast?
Styroplast is a super strong brush-on plastic coating. This is also the best coating for retaining detail. Use our Syringe for accurately mixing small batches. Click on the link for more information: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
How can I extend the working time for Styroplast?
Styroplast dries incredibly fast, especially in humid environments. A dehumidifier will help extend the work time. Other than that, we recommend having two people present when working with Styroplast on larger projects: one to pour/apply it and one to smooth it out as it's being applied.
What type of paint is compatible with the Styroplast? Can I mix pigments with Styroplast?
You can use any kind of paint as long as you paint or primer between 2-12 hours after the Styroplast sets up. Epoxy primer sticks so well to Styroplast that you can paint it long after the 12 hour limit needed by other paints, and epoxy paint is one of the best paints for water craft.
Why is my Stryoplast expanding and foaming?
We have seen this happen several times. It is usually caused by exposure to moisture, even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open can will have a much shorter shelf life. Also, exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up like that.
Do I need a professional power mixer for Styroplast?
You can mix a quart or two by hand without any problem. If you are using a whole gallon you should use a drill set at slow speed with a cheap mixer attached.See the Hot Dog video at the bottom of this page showing how it is mixed with a drill and small mixer: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
What are the best tools for applying Styroplast?
You can apply it with a paint brush, but soft squeegees (like paint can drip guards) work even better.
The white, Part B, is very thick which makes it hard to mix and apply with a brush
If you warm Part B to about 75F it will loosen up quite a bit.
How do I clean the mixing syringe after use?
Always start with Part A, followed by Part B. Make sure it's just empty it after using, and store in a plastic bag. Watch the video with the lady mixing Styroplast and loading and storing her syringes: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Can I add another coat of Styroplast?
You can add multiple layers of Styroplast during the 2-12 hour work time. However, we have recoated after 12 hours with good results. Rough up the first coat where the overlap will be. After faring in the overlap you can't tell where the seam is.
Do you sell Styroplast in smaller sizes?
Currently, we only sell Styroplast in 1-gallon sizes. You must mix exact proportions. We sell a Measuring Syringe. Watch the video to see how you can use a single syringe multiple times. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Why did my Styroplast can leak?
Styroplast may expand and start foaming when exposed to moisture. Even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up and possibly leak out of the can. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open bottle will have a much shorter shelf life.
If I open the Styroplast can do I have to use it all at one time, or do I have time to use it up?
Part A, the hardener, will not last long after opening. The more moisture it is exposed to, the faster it will go bad. If it becomes foamy then don't use it. Bart B will last for up to a year after opening. You can special order Part A, if needed.
Is there any way to remove dried Styroplast from my skin?
I don't think there is anything that will dissolve Styroplast once it is dry. After a day or two your outer layer of skin will slough off with the Styroplast.
Is there anything I can add to Styroplast when mixing to thin the product?
Leave Part B, the white part, in a warm place overnight so it becomes less viscous. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Can I spray Styroplast instead of brushing it on?
Styroplast is made as a brush on material. That is why it is so thick. Spraying with a hopper gun is possible, but protective clothing and respirators must be used because once it becomes an aerosol it can be inhaled and enter eyes and skin. Also, it must be thinned. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling.
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
What is Boost?
When Boost liquid fortifier is mixed with any of our powdered foam coats it makes them incredibly strong and weatherproof, plus makes it stick to almost anything! https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B_BoostLiquidFortifier.html
Will Boost stick to [...]?
Exterior Foam Coat with Boost sticks well to all the plastics we've tested it on except polyethylene. It wouldn't hurt to rough up the surface with some 80-grit sandpaper before applying it.
If I mix Boost in with my foam coat, will it help it stick to other materials besides foam?
If you rough up the surface of the surface you wish to coat with 80 grit sandpaper and mix your foam coat with Boost instead of water, there's a good chance it will stick. We've had lots of success doing this with various metals, wood, painted surfaces, and plastics except for polyethylene.
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is Bounce?
Add small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat to Bounce to create a flexible protective coating that is highly resistant to cracking. Use as a thin coating to retain details but still add great protection. For a super rubbery coating, add 1 part Foam Coat to 5 parts Bounce. Bounce also weatherproofs All Purpose Foam Coat. If you use water and Bounce you will get a chip resistant surface that is not rubbery. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
Can Bounce be used by itself?
Bounce can be used by itself, but only as a sealant or as a light adhesive. Cosplay artists are using Bounce to coat EVA foam so paints will adhere to it.
How should I mix All Purpose with Bounce?
Usually Bounce is the main ingredient and All Purpose Foam Coat is added in small amounts. This produces a thin and somewhat rubbery coating that still looks like stone. It's great where you want to protect from breakage but you don't want to lose the details in your foam carving.
When using bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat, can I add acrylic paint to tint the mixture?
We have tried adding acrylic latex paint to Bounce, but it reacted badly, causing it to goober up. We haven't tried using straight concrete pigments or tints but this should work fine.
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees.
What is the best coating for model brick textures, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
or the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is StainFast?
StainFast is used with water-based pigments along with Exterior or Create Coat. It looks like real stone!
Does foam coat need to be dry or fully cured before staining with StainFast?
You should wait until it is dry, but it doesn't need to be fully cured. It's a sealer, not a coating so it will allow the concrete to continue to cure.
Can I use StainFast on any concrete? Like concrete walls or patios?
We have tried spraying StainFast on a concrete patio. It seemed to absorb more, so we used a higher pigment to StainFast ratio and it worked very well. The colors are still saturated a couple of years later. It's in a low traffic area. We would use an off-the-shelf concrete sealer if it were in a high traffic area.
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains. If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
What can I use to coat foam used in my aquarium?
Our StainFast is specially made for aquariums and terrariums when used to seal Exterior Foam Coat. (This was used to seal much of the concrete used in aquariums at Sea World San Diego!) Our Exterior Foam Coat is rated for below-grade installation and withstands wet weather. Our Styroplast is a completely waterproof encapsulant. Both of these products should be sealed to be made fish-safe.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Mesh used for?
Mesh can be used with any of our coatings to add a tremendous amount of strength. It works well over contoured surfaces. Mesh should be used where there might be any movement between sheets of foam coat that are butted or glued together. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is Foam Coat?
Foam coat is made to protect and beautify your indoor and outdoor foam projects. Some provide a flexible coating, some are rock hard, some can be used in all weather conditions. Click the link for a rundown on all of our coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
How do I protect foam when it is outdoors?
Here are few things to help with defending against the elements.
Styroplast is 100% waterproof and UV resistant by itself, but latex house paint will protect against rain and UV rays on any of our coatings.
Create Coat and Exterior Foam Coat have the same resistance properties as concrete. Concrete sealers can also be used for further protection.
All Purpose Foam Coat can be made weather resistant when mixed with Boost or Bounce.
Stainfast is an excellent sealer that can also be used as a stain base.
Make sure your coatings are dry without cracks before exposing to any moisture. It may wash the coating away or prolong drying time.
What temperature ranges can your coatings be used in?
All of our Foam Coats can be used in subzero temperatures and can withstand the hottest temperatures (up to 120F). Many customers use our coatings in the deserts of Arizona and Nevada. Make sure your coating isn't exposing any foam or cracks. If water seeps through areas of uncoated foam and freezes it can cause cracks in the coating, so make sure foam exposed to freezing conditions is fully sealed.
Are any of your coatings clear?
Our coatings are fully visible. None of our coatings are clear.
Can I buy Foam Coat in bulk?
You can get bulk powdered foam coats at a much better price when purchased in 25 pound bulk boxes or 50 pound bags. We have excellent pallet rates. Styroplast product page shows quantity pricing. You can find 25 lb boxes with fixed shipping rates when you scroll down on each of the coating pages: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/foam-coats/
Can I use resin?
Resin will melt polystyrene foam. You can coat the foam with one of our coatings or a thick layer of Bounce or Foam Fusion to protect it from the resin.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water. Styroplast sticks to plastic, and although it cannot be easily peeled off it is not bonded.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water. - Styroplast sticks very well to wood as long as it doesn't have a gloss paint or other glossy finish on it. A more porous surface will have better adhesion.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too. Since Styroplast is an encapsulant, it probably won't come off polyurethane foam even if it doesn't stick well.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam. Styroplast is also used to coat EVA foam. It is super strong even when applied very thin, so you don't lose detail. It has a little bit of give, too. Here are some costumes that our customers have made using our products: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/cosplay-costumes/
What tools should I use to apply your coatings?
For larger projects our powder coatings can best be applied with a stucco brush or trowel. Smaller brushed can be used for smaller projects.
The little pour spouts that snap into the ridge of one gallon paint cans work well for applying to curved surfaces.
Styroplast is best applied with a trowel or a flexible paint pour spout.
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
How do I apply the powdered Foam Coats?
Fill big cracks and holes by applying a pasty mixture with a trowel. If using extruded foam (ie Blueboard or Pinkboard) roughen the surface with coarse sandpaper. Apply with a paintbrush, stucco brush, trowel, or hopper gun.
How thick should I apply the foam coat?
If you use one of our concrete coatings, Exterior Foam Coat or All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat, the strength will depend on the thickness. If you use Mesh and/or add Boost liquid fortifier you will greatly increase the strength.
Bounce with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener is strong even when apply very thin.
Styroploast can go on very thin and still give you great strength. Check out the videos on the Styroplast product page. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
Always do testing with some scrap foam to make sure it holds up to your needs.
How do I determine how much foam coat I need?
It depends on how much strength vs weight works for your project. Boost will strengthen all three powdered coatings so you can get a better strength to weight ratio. Bounce strengthens All Purpose Foam Coat. You can add additional coats if the first coat is not strong enough. Styroplast has the best strength to weight ratio.
Can I mix the foam coatings together?
We do not recommend mixing our foam coats together. Each has its own characteristics. The different ingredients might react with each other. We do have two fortifiers, Boost and Bounce, that can be mixed with our powdered foam coats. Bounce can only be mixed with All Purpose Foam Coat.
Can I add a second foam coat?
You can add as many coats as you want as long as the earlier coats have set up enough to be well adhered. If using Create Coat, add 50% Boost to thicken the water.
It is common to use a thin coat as a scratch coat that allows the second coat to adhere better. We recommend applying a scratch coat with Boost added to it when you coat XPS foam because it is very smooth and difficult to get the wet foam coat to stick.
Extra coats of Styroplast should be applied 2-12 hours after the first coat sets up. If you miss the 2-12 hours lightly sand before applying the next coat.
Can I paint/stain foam coat?
Our Foam Coats can be easily painted, and our powdered coatings can also be mixed with concrete dyes and pigments. If you need to cover already painted foam, add Boost to the powdered coating. Styroplast adheres well, but it does not dry clear and must be painted.
Can I use a paint sprayer or hopper gun to apply foam coat?
Foam Coat is too thick to spray with a paint sprayer, You can use a hopper gun to apply All Purpose and Exterior Foam Coat. It is much easier to spray over large areas than applying with a trowel. Look at the Coating video on this page. If you do use Boost, it is not longer diluted, you use it straight. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/flowerbeds/
Styroplast is difficult to apply with a hopper gun because it is so thick and dries quickly. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating. Create Coat is concrete-based, but is also very smooth, and of all our powdered coatings it's the easiest to sand.
Can Foam Coat be sanded? How do I get the Foam Coat to be smooth?
If you tap on the foam being coated, the foam coat will momentarily liquify to smooth out the brush lines and other imperfections.
You can also smooth foam coat with a metal trowel or putty knife.while it's setting up. Smooth curves using a piece of flexible rubber of plastic.The yellow paint pour spouts work great and are easy to clean.
Use a lightly dampened sponge for initial smoothing of our powdered foam coats. You will find the magic moment when the coating you are using can be best smoothed, and even wet sanded. Once our powdered foam coats dry they are difficult to sand smooth. You will need concrete grade sanding tools. Flap discs for concrete work best.
How do I keep my foam coat from bowing/warping?
The bowing of large thinner sheets of foam when coating has been a problem for many years. What we've noticed to work best was to put a 1/16″ wooden stringer through the board.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
I'm having a hard time getting All Purpose, Exterior and Create Coat coatings to stick to the foam.
Apply a thin wet scratch coat, let it dry, then the thicker coat will have something to grab. Using Boost instead of water will help the first coat to stick. If you are using the pink or blue XPS foam it is not only very smooth, but often has a waxy coating that repels foam coat and even glue. Lightly sand the surface of the foam to help adhesion.
You will find a variety of terrariums, animal habitats and aquariums that are beautified and protected by our coating in the habitats section of the gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/habitats/
How do I protect foam from wildlife?
When applied thick enough all of our coatings will be animal-proof.
Which foam coatings are best for movie, theater, haunt, and escape room props and backdrops?
All of our coatings are used for these venues. You’ll want to take a looks at each of our coatings and fortifiers to determine which is best for the prop or backdrop you are creating.
Foam Coat Comparisons: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
Did you discontinue Grit?
We no longer sell Grit as the Exterior Foam Coat now has the same texture as if you added Grit. For a very rough texture use a 3-inch stucco brush.
What is the shelf life of foam coat?
The powdered coatings will last for at least a year if kept sealed and in a dry location. If you find chunks of hardened coating you can usually break them up with a gloved hand, or you can screen them out. Stryoplast only has a shelf life of about 6 months. Part A will not last long at all if exposed to moisture while open.
How long does Foam Coat take to set up?
Working time:
All-Purpose: 10-20 minutes
Exterior: up to 1.5-3 hours
Create Coat: 10-15 minutes
Styroplast: 10-15 minutes
When is it dry to touch and paint:
All-Purpose: 3-4 hours
Exterior: 6-8 hours
Create Coat: 2-3 hours
Styroplast 2 hours
Time to reach maximum strength:
All-Purpose: 24 hrs
Exterior: up to 5 days
Create Coat: 24 hrs
Styroplast 24 hrs
Extend the working time of All Purpose Foam Coat by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing it into the dry foam coat. Exterior Foam Coat already has a long set up time of 1.8-3 hours. With Create Coat mix more water in if it starts setting up in the mixing container. Syroplast drying time can be extended by dehumidifying the workspace.
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength. Click the link below for a rundown of all our coatings. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
Do your coatings add a lot of weight?
Three of our powdered coatings are concrete based, but are stronger and lighter than concrete and can be applied thinner without losing strength. Styroplast is not only very lightweight but is stronger than any other foam coat so can be applied very thin. A fairly thin coat of foam coat mixed with Boost instead of water and applied over Mesh will be incredibly strong and fairly lightweight. Bounce mixed with a small amount of All Purpose Foam Coat to give it body is very lightweight and even a thin coat is very strong.
Do your foam coats hold up against harsh sunlight/UV light?
Foam Coats are UV resistant. When applied correctly our coatings should last for decades. Styroplast is UV resistant but should be painted with an exterior paint for permanence.
Is Foam Coat Fire Safe?
Our powdered coatings are concrete based so not only are they fire-safe, but they also inhibit fires. The MSDS sheets show that they are non-flammable, but they have not been officially rated. Some of our customers have had to spray their concrete based coating with the same fire prevention spray that is used for curtains in theaters to pass fire inspections. Styroplast is our only officially fire rated coatings.
What type of protection do I need?
When mixing any of our powdered coatings with the liquid ingredient a dust mask should be worn. When mixing Styroplast gloves and other skin protection should be used. If Styroplast or mixtures containing Boost dry on your skin they will not come off. Styroplast that has not dried will come off with acetone. Wet Boost can be washed off with soap and water. IMPORTANT: Read the warnings that come with your coating.
Are your foam coats nontoxic?
Our foam coats are non-toxic after they set up.
Our powdered coatings are modified concrete mixtures that contain silica sand, so you should wear a mask while mixing. They are VOC free.
Styroplast is a two part mix and the hardener is toxic to your skin, so wear gloves while mixing. Once Syroplast has hardened it is VOC free.
What do I use for interior renovations?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls and other interior projects, as they all have different textures.
Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What coating will protect my foam sculptures and statues?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of sculptures made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Sculpture and Statues button.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets in campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is pet aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains (StainFast was used to seal much of the concrete used in aquariums at Sea World San Diego!). If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
All Purpose Foam Coat is also used for reptile habitats, thought it cannot be stained. A good water sealant is recommended if the pieces will be placed in water as All Purpose is not waterproof. It is perfectly safe and pet friendly.
What is the best for making Halloween props, tombstones, mausoleums, and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props, Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What are the best coatings for foam backdrops and terrain for terrariums, vivariums, reptile hides and habitats, aquariums and wildlife habitats?
All of our coatings will work with different effects. Exterior Foam Coat is very inert and is often used for reptile hides and animal enclosures. It has a natural rock-like texture which can be easily exaggerated or smoothed while it sets up. Create Coat is also water resistant but is very smooth and doesn't stick well to itself so you can't layer it unless you add Boost to it. StainFast is a fantastic new sealant that is specially made for aquariums and terrariums. It is used to stain and seal Exterior Foam Coat and Create Coat. You can use StainFast with water base pigments, or if you just want to seal the Exterior Foam Coat or Create Coat you can just use it as an invisible sealer. Unlike all other sealers, it does not look at all shiny, so you are able to retain the utmost realism.
Styroplast, which is animal-safe, is plastic so you will have to work a bit to make it look like stone. One of our customers shows in a video how he put Grit on the Styroplast as is was drying to get a stone effect for his miniature gaming terrain. We no longer carry Grit, but you can use sand instead.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling. Some other options are Create Coat with Boost added, which gives a limestone look and feel. Exterior can be used as well, giving a rougher texture You can paint directly on both of these with any kind of paint. You have to paint Styroplast between 2-12 hours after it sets up.
What coatings do you recommend for party and event Planners who make props out of foam?
We have customers making props for weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, festivals, parades, concerts, sports events, fashion events, charity events, bar mitzvahs, baby showers, and more. They coat their props and signs with everything from paint, to Styropplast, to All Purpose Foam Coat to Exterior Foam Coat, to Create Coat. Here are just a few examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/parties-events/ The coatings they used are listed at the bottom of each gallery page.
What are the best coatings for foam exhibits, theme park props and public attractions? (Including zoos, haunts and museum displays.)
All 4 of our coatings and both of our fortifiers are used for these types of displays. You will find a variety of exhibits and props that are beautified and protected by our coating in the Foam Artist Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/exhibits-attractions/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
How should I coat my 3D foam murals and wall art, bas relief, and foam relief art?
Artists are using all 4 of our coatings based on the effect they want and the environment they will be displayed in. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Wall Art button.
What is the best coating for Christmas yard ornaments like life-sized gingerbread house, snowmen, and Santa Claus props?
Any of our 4 coatings will work well for this. Here are a few that our customers have built: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills, mountains. and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. Ror a rugged stone look use Exterior Foam Coat. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. Here are helpful examples: Model Railroad Scenery Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable. Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well. If weight is not an issue then Create Coat will be a good option. You will find a couple of good examples here: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coating go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco. All Purpose and Create Coat look and feel like drywall. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best foam coat for foam walls?
All of our coatings are used for coating foam walls. They all have different textures. Look at our comparison chart to decide which is best for your project. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/gallery/tool-info/foamcoat-info/
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is the best coating for model bricks and cobblestone roads and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is All-Purpose Foam Coat?
Easy to use - simply mix with water. It's tough yet still sandable. It is inherently fire resistant. Can be used outdoors when sealed with any outdoor paint, or mixed with Boost liquid fortifier, or Bounce liquid rubberizer. Apply thick with a trowel or thin with a paintbrush. Sets up in only about 15 minutes. Extend the drying time by adding up to 50% latex paint with your water before mixing into the dry foam coat.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability.
What is the best coating for a foam Easter Tomb?
Most people making Easter Tombs are using All Purpose Foam Coat or Exterior Foam Coat. They both look and feel like real stone. Here's a step-by-step project example: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/otherhol_nancym/
What is the best coating for miniature gaming terrain and props?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for a giant foam valentine that will be on display?
If your valentine is going to be indoors All Purpose Foam Coat will be your best bet. Although, any of our other 3 coatings will also work well: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/other-holidays/
What is the best coating for hills and mountains and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best foam coating for model railroad terrain, hills, and mountains?
Most model railroaders use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel.
What's the best coating for Village Displays?
For a realistic rock or earth All Purpose Foam Coat. You can apply a thin layer for looks, or a thicker coat for durability. You can use a 3 to 1 mix of Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat for even more durability so you can apply a thinner coat that retains detail. For a smooth, almost snow white finish use Create Coat. You can find artists using this method on their villages in our Gallery from the link below. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will work well.
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees. Styroplast works good, too, but is harder to apply properly. The other coatings go on too thick, so you lose detail. Here are some examples with tips and tricks from our customers: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is the best coating for model bricks, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
For the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is Exterior Foam Coat?
This stuff is super tough. It is not sandable. Has a rough stone feel when dry. It can be troweled smooth, or brushed to make a super rough finish. Can also be applied with a hopper gun. Withstands all weather conditions. It's been used everywhere, from the hot Arizona deserts to the freezing Canadian winters. Can be used below grade. Popular for coating foam homes and EIFS panels.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to bond two sheets of foam together?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat to bond foam together, but you won't be able to cut through it. If you are hanging it vertically, you might consider adding Boost fortifier as your liquid ingredient to greatly improve adhesion.
Can I use Exterior Foam Coat to coat my bath and shower walls?
You can use Exterior Foam Coat for bathrooms and shower stalls. If going over a material besides foam, use Boost, at least for a first thin coat, for better adhesion, and a straight Exterior Foam Coat after that. Then apply a thin clear epoxy coat over everything. otherwise it will be very difficult to clean.
will exterior foam coat stick to Styroplast?
Before trying to use Exterior Foam Coat over Styroplast, You should lightly sand the Styroplast and then use Boost instead of water for the liquid ingredient to make the Exterior stick to the Styroplast.
Are any of your coatings rodent resistant?
Our powdered coatings are. I'm sure it would break their teeth if they tried to chew through them. I have raised flower beds coated with Exterior Foam Coat that are partially below ground. Gophers dig all around them but have never bothered even trying to chew through the coating.
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains. If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for a foam RC crawler course?
Most of our customers who are building crawler courses just use straight Exterior Foam Coat with solid foam as the base. You might want to apply a thin scratch coat using Boost instead of water to get the next heavier coat something to grab onto. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/rc-modeling/
I make foam sculptures for my mosaics. Can I coat them with foam coat instead of concrete?
Yes, you can use Exterior Foam Coat for all of your mosaic projects. It's lighter and stronger than concrete and goes on easier. Here are some examples of mosaics made with our tools, glues and coatings: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/art/ Click on the blue Mosaics button.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
What is the best exterior coating for foam buildings and architectural facades?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone or stucco.
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Create Coat?
Creamy-smooth, white, rock-hard, cement-like foam finish. Use directly on foam. Easy to make it look just like wood, stone, metal and bone. Use indoors or out. Rain, freeze, and sun resistant. Perfect base for creating gorgeous natural tints with acid stains or our StainFast water based stain system. Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
Can I add multiple layers of Create Coat?
Does not stick to itself so you MUST use Boost instead of water to apply multiple coats.
I was wondering how well the Create coat (+ Boost) would adhere to stucco?
When you add Boost to Create Coat it will stick well to almost any surface. But, Create Coat is so smooth and water resistant that I don't think stucco will stick to it. If the gaps are not more than 1/4- inch why not fill them with Create Coat instead of stucco? All Purpose Foam Coat is a good filler and can go on at least 1/4-inch thick. Create Coat will stick directly to All Purpose Foam Coat.
How can I make the foam coating look like ice?
Use Create Coat. Tint it with water base concrete pigment. A very light blue, maybe?. Work the coating while drying to smooth it. Finish off with an iridescent spray. Brush on glitter paint to give it that ice sparkle.
What is the best coating for hills, mountains, and terrain for miniature village/D56 displays and multi-level platforms that are made from foam?
Most miniature display artists use All Purpose Foam Coat. It is easy to apply and has a natural earthy look and feel. For snow, Create Coat will be better because it has a white smooth finish. You will find many examples with lots of tips and tricks in our Village Display Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/modeling/village-displays/
What is the best coating for foam picture frames? I want a faux stone and faux wood look.
All Purpose Foam Coat or Create Coat will work well for framing. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/home-garden/
What is Styroplast?
Styroplast is a super strong brush-on plastic coating. This is also the best coating for retaining detail. Use our Syringe for accurately mixing small batches. Click on the link for more information: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
How can I extend the working time for Styroplast?
Styroplast dries incredibly fast, especially in humid environments. A dehumidifier will help extend the work time. Other than that, we recommend having two people present when working with Styroplast on larger projects: one to pour/apply it and one to smooth it out as it's being applied.
What type of paint is compatible with the Styroplast? Can I mix pigments with Styroplast?
You can use any kind of paint as long as you paint or primer between 2-12 hours after the Styroplast sets up. Epoxy primer sticks so well to Styroplast that you can paint it long after the 12 hour limit needed by other paints, and epoxy paint is one of the best paints for water craft.
Why is my Stryoplast expanding and foaming?
We have seen this happen several times. It is usually caused by exposure to moisture, even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open can will have a much shorter shelf life. Also, exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up like that.
Do I need a professional power mixer for Styroplast?
You can mix a quart or two by hand without any problem. If you are using a whole gallon you should use a drill set at slow speed with a cheap mixer attached.See the Hot Dog video at the bottom of this page showing how it is mixed with a drill and small mixer: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/024_Styro_Plast.html
What are the best tools for applying Styroplast?
You can apply it with a paint brush, but soft squeegees (like paint can drip guards) work even better.
The white, Part B, is very thick which makes it hard to mix and apply with a brush
If you warm Part B to about 75F it will loosen up quite a bit.
How do I clean the mixing syringe after use?
Always start with Part A, followed by Part B. Make sure it's just empty it after using, and store in a plastic bag. Watch the video with the lady mixing Styroplast and loading and storing her syringes: https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Can I add another coat of Styroplast?
You can add multiple layers of Styroplast during the 2-12 hour work time. However, we have recoated after 12 hours with good results. Rough up the first coat where the overlap will be. After faring in the overlap you can't tell where the seam is.
Do you sell Styroplast in smaller sizes?
Currently, we only sell Styroplast in 1-gallon sizes. You must mix exact proportions. We sell a Measuring Syringe. Watch the video to see how you can use a single syringe multiple times. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-024-S-Styroplast-Measuring-Syringe.html
Why did my Styroplast can leak?
Styroplast may expand and start foaming when exposed to moisture. Even leaving the lid off for a few minutes in humid conditions can cause this. Exposure to water or even humidity will cause it to foam up and possibly leak out of the can. Also, if it is past 6 months old this can occur. An open bottle will have a much shorter shelf life.
If I open the Styroplast can do I have to use it all at one time, or do I have time to use it up?
Part A, the hardener, will not last long after opening. The more moisture it is exposed to, the faster it will go bad. If it becomes foamy then don't use it. Bart B will last for up to a year after opening. You can special order Part A, if needed.
Is there any way to remove dried Styroplast from my skin?
I don't think there is anything that will dissolve Styroplast once it is dry. After a day or two your outer layer of skin will slough off with the Styroplast.
Is there anything I can add to Styroplast when mixing to thin the product?
Leave Part B, the white part, in a warm place overnight so it becomes less viscous. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Can I spray Styroplast instead of brushing it on?
Styroplast is made as a brush on material. That is why it is so thick. Spraying with a hopper gun is possible, but protective clothing and respirators must be used because once it becomes an aerosol it can be inhaled and enter eyes and skin. Also, it must be thinned. A customer told us that he used a 1:10 mix of denatured alcohol with Part A. He said that it also removed moisture so he didn't get any effervescing. The Part A sucks in moisture from the atmosphere and releases it in the form of little bubbles during curing. An RC airplane builder said he used mineral spirits in a 1:18 part mix and was able to use it with an airless sprayer. Acetone has been tried as a thinner, but did not work. Use acetone to clean your brushes, but be careful not to get the acetone up where the bristles are glued together.
Which foam coat is the smoothest?
Our smoothest coating is Styroplast, which is a strong plastic coating.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam signs?
When making signage and displays, Styroplast is the smoothest and retains the most detail. It's super strong, so holds up to extreme weather and handling.
What is the best coating for RC airplanes that are made out of foam?
Styroplast is super light and super durable. It has just enough give so it doesn't easily crack or dent. Here are some examples: RC Modeling Project Gallery - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is the best coating for giant foam mushrooms for my garden and landscape decor?
Some of our expert mushroom makers use Styroplast because it is very light and super durable.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
What is Boost?
When Boost liquid fortifier is mixed with any of our powdered foam coats it makes them incredibly strong and weatherproof, plus makes it stick to almost anything! https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B_BoostLiquidFortifier.html
Will Boost stick to [...]?
Exterior Foam Coat with Boost sticks well to all the plastics we've tested it on except polyethylene. It wouldn't hurt to rough up the surface with some 80-grit sandpaper before applying it.
If I mix Boost in with my foam coat, will it help it stick to other materials besides foam?
If you rough up the surface of the surface you wish to coat with 80 grit sandpaper and mix your foam coat with Boost instead of water, there's a good chance it will stick. We've had lots of success doing this with various metals, wood, painted surfaces, and plastics except for polyethylene.
What’s your strongest Foam Coating?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest.
Will foam coat stick to plastic?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to plastic if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to wood?
Our powdered foam coats will only stick to wood (including plywoods, particle boards, etc.) if you use Boost instead of water.
Will foam coat stick to polyurethane foam?
You must use Boost instead of water for our coatings to stick to polyurethane foam. This goes for spray foams, like Great Stuff, too.
What is the best coating for foam cabinets for campers and tiny houses?
Many people are using All Purpose Foam Coat. Using Boost instead of water as the liquid ingredient will make the coating stick to wood and metal, and add extra durability. For the ultimate in strength and minimal weight use Styroplast. https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/
What is Bounce?
Add small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat to Bounce to create a flexible protective coating that is highly resistant to cracking. Use as a thin coating to retain details but still add great protection. For a super rubbery coating, add 1 part Foam Coat to 5 parts Bounce. Bounce also weatherproofs All Purpose Foam Coat. If you use water and Bounce you will get a chip resistant surface that is not rubbery. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
Can Bounce be used by itself?
Bounce can be used by itself, but only as a sealant or as a light adhesive. Cosplay artists are using Bounce to coat EVA foam so paints will adhere to it.
How should I mix All Purpose with Bounce?
Usually Bounce is the main ingredient and All Purpose Foam Coat is added in small amounts. This produces a thin and somewhat rubbery coating that still looks like stone. It's great where you want to protect from breakage but you don't want to lose the details in your foam carving.
When using bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat, can I add acrylic paint to tint the mixture?
We have tried adding acrylic latex paint to Bounce, but it reacted badly, causing it to goober up. We haven't tried using straight concrete pigments or tints but this should work fine.
What coating will add flexibility?
For more flexibility, Bounce with small amounts of All Purpose Foam Coat mixed in. Check out the Birdhouse video for mixing tips. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/025B0-BounceRubberizer.html
What coating best retains details?
Styroplast is best for retaining details. Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added also retains most details.
Do any of your foam coating adhere to EVA foam, the kind used for Cosplay costumes?
Bounce with a little bit of All Purpose Foam Coat added as a thickener will stick to EVA foam.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best for making Halloween props and Haunted Houses?
Most haunt builder use Exterior Foam Coat. For creating props Styroplast and Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat are the lightest and because of their flexibility they stand up well to abuse. There are lots of helpful tips on haunt making in our Haunt Gallery: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/holiday/halloween/
What is the best coating for foam bird houses, garden fairy houses, and fountains?
Many users have used Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat added that remained unharmed after being blown across concrete and into trees.
What is the best coating for model brick textures, cobblestone roads, and walkways that are carved from foam?
or the most realistic look, All Purpose Foam Coat is best. You will have to apply thin coats to get the best detail. If you need a thin coat that retains details but adds more strength, use Bounce with All Purpose Foam Coat. Here are helpful examples: Miniature Village Displays - Hot Wire Foam Factory
What is StainFast?
StainFast is used with water-based pigments along with Exterior or Create Coat. It looks like real stone!
Does foam coat need to be dry or fully cured before staining with StainFast?
You should wait until it is dry, but it doesn't need to be fully cured. It's a sealer, not a coating so it will allow the concrete to continue to cure.
Can I use StainFast on any concrete? Like concrete walls or patios?
We have tried spraying StainFast on a concrete patio. It seemed to absorb more, so we used a higher pigment to StainFast ratio and it worked very well. The colors are still saturated a couple of years later. It's in a low traffic area. We would use an off-the-shelf concrete sealer if it were in a high traffic area.
Are your foam coatings safe for aquariums, terrariums, and vivariums?
We have a foam-coat/stain system that is aquarium safe and will produce a beautiful natural stone or reef look. Exterior Foam Coat is applied over the foam shape. The coating is then sealed with StainFast, which is also a base for water-base stains. If you want more saturated colors, apply a thin coat of Create Coat over the Exterior Foam Coat, and apply the StainFast to that.
What can I use to coat foam used in my aquarium?
Our StainFast is specially made for aquariums and terrariums when used to seal Exterior Foam Coat. (This was used to seal much of the concrete used in aquariums at Sea World San Diego!) Our Exterior Foam Coat is rated for below-grade installation and withstands wet weather. Our Styroplast is a completely waterproof encapsulant. Both of these products should be sealed to be made fish-safe.
What is the best coating for an outdoor BBQs made out of foam?
Exterior Foam Coat is super durable and it looks and feels like real stone. Use StainFast with water based pigments for realistic looking stones. Here are some examples: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/ind_boulderimage_a/ and a how-to video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mxf2J3c-KAk
How can I get a stone look?
Our Exterior Foam Coat looks and feels like stone. You can create a super rough or a semi-smooth surface as it dries. StainFast mixed with pigments makes it easy to create realistic rock colors.
What is Mesh used for?
Mesh can be used with any of our coatings to add a tremendous amount of strength. It works well over contoured surfaces. Mesh should be used where there might be any movement between sheets of foam coat that are butted or glued together. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
How strong is Foam Coat?
Styroplast is the strongest. Exterior Foam Coat with Boost used instead of water is the second strongest. All 4 of our coatings are used for public displays and even children's playgrounds, going through continual abuse. Using Mesh on seams or over your entire project will greatly increase its strength.
Can I use fiberglass to strengthen and reinforce foam coat?
Most fiberglass has too fine a mesh and cannot be used to strengthen or reinforce foam coat, although it has been successfully used on flat seams. We have a product called Mesh that greatly strengthens foam coat and can be laid up on irregular and contoured shapes. https://hotwirefoamfactory.com/-025MH-Mesh-Medium.html
I want to insulate my house with foam. Which coating will be best?
Most people use Exterior Foam Coat. Make sure you use Mesh on the seams.
How do I keep my powdered Foam Coats from chipping?
For a much stronger coating use Mesh with any of our foam coats to make them chip resistant. Styroplast is the strongest and most chip-resistant coating we have. Adding Bounce to All Purpose Foam Coat makes it chip-resistant.
What is the best foam coating for kayaks, pontoons, and paddleboards?
Styroplast is 100% waterproof, very smooth and super tough. For added strength use Mesh . Sttyroplast is too thick to penetrate fiberglass cloth. Here are some examples that customers have made: https://gallery.hotwirefoamfactory.com/industrial/