Demilec Lawsuit: Spray Foam Emits Toxic Fumes

Consumers who own or reside in property which was treated with a spray polyurethane foam insulation (SPF) manufactured by Demilec may have legal recourse to collect compensation for damages. A lawsuit has been filed against Demilec and other related companies alleging that its "SEALECTION 500" and "SEALECTION Agribalance" polyurethane spray foam insulation emits toxic fumes that can cause property damage and health problems for homeowners after it has been applied to walls, attics and similar spaces. Property containing the spray foam in question are said to emit a fish-like odor, which some find to be a "new home" "old attic" or "chemical" smell. The lawsuit seeks to compensate property owners and residents for damages, including costs and expenses incurred in remedying the effects of the allegedly toxic spray foam insulation.

Toxic Spray Foam Leading to Health Problems?

Marketed as "green" and "non-toxic", the SEALECTION spray foam insulation contains two sets of highly toxic compounds which are brought together in a spraying apparatus handled by an installer who applies the material into an attic, wall or similar area of property. When applied, the resulting foam is supposed to become non-toxic. The Demilec lawsuit claims, however, that due to a number of defects, the toxic chemical compounds combine to create a toxic substance which continues to "off-gas" after installation. "Off-gassing" is said to create irritants which can lead to health problems in occupants of homes and buildings with the spray foam insulation. These problems may include:

• Neurological issues
• Eye, nose, skin and throat irritations
• Respiratory and breathing problems

Many of the chemical compounds found in the spray foam insulation are classified as hazardous by OSHA. The plaintiff in the lawsuit had the air in her home tested after the spray foam was installed and claims that elevated levels of formaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds were noted.

Installers Not Properly Trained, Certified

According to the lawsuit, Demilec knew that its installers, including fellow defendants Masco Corporation, were not fit to install the spray foam. It has been further alleged that the company was aware that the training, installation materials and supervision provided to the installers was inadequate, as it often received reports of installation failures. Proper installation to allow for non-toxicity of the product is impossible given the challenging set of installation requirements and inadequate training provided to installers, according to allegations posed in the suit. It has been further alleged that the spray foam’s design makes it impossible for the product to become non-toxic, even under optimal conditions.

Homeowners May Be Entitled to Compensation

The pending lawsuit seeks compensation for the following:

• Inspection costs
• Expense needed to remedy the effects of the product
• Costs to remove and replace the property and property impacted by the product
• Loss of use and enjoyment of the property
• Costs associated with the need for temporary housing
• Costs associated with related health problems

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