Old MacDonald Had Some Foam, E-I-E-I-O

Spray Foam Magazine – Late Summer 2025 – Many people in the farming industry know that spray foam insulation is becoming an increasingly popular choice for pole barns and other agricultural structures. However, there are additional uses for both spray polyurethane foam (SPF) and coatings in agriculture that deserve attention. The Spray Foam Magazine team (SFMT) visited a farm to explore how SPF and coatings are benefiting one contractor in his agricultural projects. Adam Mueller, the owner of Infinite Foam, a foam and coatings application company based in Montfort, Wisconsin, has been using Oak Ridge Foam and Coatings products for agriculture-related jobs for the past 15 years. Oak Ridge, a reputable supplier of spray foam and coatings, has been in operation for over 37 years.

Ag-bags repairs

Ag bags are commonly found on farms, but what exactly are they? These bags, or tubes, serve as an accessible alternative to traditional silage or silo pits. They are easy to install and can be moved closer to the crops compared to standard silos. Constructed from white polyethylene, these large, sealed bags reflect ultraviolet rays, which helps protect the contents inside.

Crops can be stored in ag bags in fields for approximately two years. However, these bags, often used for storing animal feed, can attract rodents that may damage them, and hail that can puncture or tear the plastic.

To address this issue, Adam uses Oak Ridge’s Flak Jacket, to coat and protect damaged ag bags, preventing the need for replacement and ensuring the contents remain intact. This coating can also be applied to high moisture wrapped bales. Adam sprays the coating directly onto punctures to seal them. If a hole is particularly large, he first covers it with tape before applying the coating. The Flak Jacket is a spray-on polyurea blend used for truck bed liners, known for its extreme durability, environmental safety, and permanent bonding to surfaces for long-lasting protection. Additionally, the Flak Jacket coating is quick to apply, meaning there is no downtime, and it ensures even coverage while being both durable and long-lasting.

Agricultural shop insulation

Adam typically uses a two-pound closed-cell spray foam for insulating agricultural shops. This method is effective for both steel and wood structures, which can face condensation issues. Applying closed-cell foam is a quick and cost-effective way to insulate these large buildings, helping to create a fully encapsulated environment.

Upgrading insulation in agricultural shops not only provides a rodent-proof setting but, when paired with temperature control systems, also helps maintain crops in excellent condition for a longer period. This extension of the growing season can lead to better market prices and increased profitability.

When working on these projects, Adam often sprays the walls, ceilings, and footings. Many buildings also feature in-floor heating, so he applies the foam over the gravel before the heating tubes are installed and the concrete is poured on top. This approach maximizes energy efficiency and makes the building more cost-effective to heat.

Syrup and Whey Protein Tanks

To prevent freezing and potential damage to the tank, Adam first applies a sturdy roofing foam to the tank's exterior. He then adds a protective coating around the base to minimize air loss and enhance airflow through the grain. These tanks are commonly found at dairies and liquid feedlots. By using closed-cell roofing foam topped with Oak Ridge’s Silver polyurea roof coating, the product remains in excellent condition.

Grain Bin Sealing

Grain bins use forced air circulation beneath the floor, but air leakage can happen where the bin sheets meet the concrete pad. To address this issue, Adam applies closed-cell roofing foam and a protective coating around the base of the bin. This helps eliminate air loss and enhances airflow through the grain.

Fertilizer Hopper Trailers

Fertilizer hopper trailers are semi-trailers specifically designed for transporting fertilizer. To protect these trailers from corrosion, it's important to take preventive measures. One effective approach is to use coatings that resist chemical reactions with fertilizers. Additionally, covering the trailers during rain or snow and washing them down after use can further enhance their longevity. Adam utilizes a rust and chemical-resistant coating from Oak Ridge to help protect his clients' trailers. This coating reduces corrosion caused by fertilizer exposure, ultimately extending the trailers' lifespan and durability.

High-quality spray foam insulation and resistant polyurea coatings also offer protection for agricultural investments, such as feed storage containers, tractors, trailers, and tanks. Adam Mueller has been using Oak Ridge’s polyurea coatings and high-performance spray foam insulation products for over 15 years across a diverse range of agricultural projects. This experience has allowed him to provide tailored solutions for various industry challenges, saving his customers money by effectively addressing these issues with reliable products.