How to Glue Styrofoam Insulation to Metal Siding

Styrofoam insulation is easy to apply to metal siding with the right materials.

Styrofoam insulation is a cost-effective and efficient way to insulate a room, house or any other large building. The make-up of styrofoam is diverse, and some of the more popular blends include styrene, urethane, neoprene or vinyl. Because of styrofoam's unique chemical characteristics and lightness, care must be taken when applying it to different types of paneling and siding. Application of styrofoam to metal requires special types of epoxies, as not all glues will hold the material strongly enough.

Things You'll Need

• Steel wool or sandpaper
• Metal epoxy or J-B Weld
• Application brush

Instructions

1. Prepare the metal siding by cleaning it with steel wool or sandpaper. This primes the surface for application of glue, removes rust and dirt and allows a firmer hold for the styrofoam.

2. Apply J-B Weld or an epoxy specified for use with metal to the siding with an application brush. Only apply as much as you need depending on the size of each piece of styrofoam insulation, as the epoxy sets quickly.

3. Place the styrofoam insulation over the glue you applied to the siding and hold it steady for several seconds. Make sure the styrofoam meets the glue at its edges and in the center for a firm hold.

4. Repeat the above steps on the rest of your work space. Leave the styrofoam and epoxy to dry for a day or so.

Tips & Warnings

• Hot glue can be used as a less-toxic alternative to metal epoxies. However, it should not be applied directly to the styrofoam. Apply it instead to the metal siding and allow it to cool for several seconds, then place the styrofoam over it.

• Styrofoam breaks easily. Handle the insulation with care while applying it to the siding.

• Avoid epoxies that contain solvents. These can cause the styrofoam to erode, releasing very dangerous toxic fumes.

• Applying hot glue directly to styrofoam can also release dangerous fumes. Always apply to the contact surface first.

References

• This to That: Styrofoam to Metal