Sealing a Styrofoam cooler is a crucial step to ensure its longevity and performance. Whether you’re looking to prevent leaks, waterproof your cooler, or simply extend its lifespan, there are several effective methods you can employ. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the technical specifications and step-by-step DIY approaches for sealing a Styrofoam cooler using various materials and techniques.
PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) and Water Mixture
The PVA and water mixture is a versatile option for sealing Styrofoam coolers that don’t require a hard, rigid coat. By creating a 50:50 blend of PVA and water, tinted with artists’ acrylic, you can easily spray this mixture onto the Styrofoam surface. This method offers several advantages:
- Flexibility and Durability: The PVA and water mixture provides a flexible and durable seal, making it suitable for applications where the cooler may experience some flexing or movement.
- Easy Application: The liquid nature of the mixture allows for straightforward application using a spray gun or brush, making it a user-friendly option.
- Quick Drying: The PVA and water mixture dries quickly, allowing you to use the cooler soon after the sealing process.
However, it’s important to note that this method may not be suitable for applications that require a hard, rigid coat, as the flexible nature of the seal may not provide the necessary rigidity.
Elastomeric Paint
Elastomeric paint is an excellent choice for preventing leaks in Styrofoam boxes. This type of paint is designed to expand and contract with the surface, creating a flexible and waterproof seal. Some key features of using elastomeric paint to seal a Styrofoam cooler include:
- Waterproof Seal: Elastomeric paint forms a durable, waterproof barrier, making it an ideal choice for coolers that need to withstand moisture and water exposure.
- Easy Application: Applying elastomeric paint is straightforward, often requiring only a single coat to provide adequate protection.
- Flexibility: The paint’s ability to expand and contract with the surface ensures a flexible seal, which can be beneficial for applications where the cooler may experience some flexing or movement.
Similar to the PVA and water mixture, elastomeric paint may not be the best choice for applications that require a hard, rigid coat, as the flexible nature of the seal may not provide the necessary rigidity.
Spray-on Bedliner
Spray-on bedliner is a popular choice for waterproofing and weatherproofing Styrofoam coolers. By using a can of spray-on bedliner, you can coat the outside of the cooler, creating a durable and waterproof seal. Some key advantages of this method include:
- Waterproof and Weatherproof: Spray-on bedliner forms a robust, waterproof and weatherproof barrier, protecting the Styrofoam from the elements.
- Durable Seal: The hard, rigid nature of the bedliner provides a durable seal that can withstand wear and tear.
- Easy Application: Applying spray-on bedliner is a straightforward process, requiring only a spray gun and following the manufacturer’s instructions.
However, it’s important to note that the hard, rigid nature of the bedliner may not be suitable for applications where a flexible seal is required, as the lack of flexibility could lead to potential issues with the cooler’s performance.
Nonsolvent Glue
For repairing leaking Styrofoam coolers, nonsolvent glue can be an effective solution. This type of glue, specifically designed for non-porous materials, can be used to coat the bottom of the cooler, providing a waterproof seal. Some key considerations when using nonsolvent glue include:
- Waterproof Seal: Nonsolvent glue forms a waterproof barrier, effectively sealing any leaks in the Styrofoam cooler.
- Ease of Application: Applying nonsolvent glue is a simple process, typically involving the use of a brush to coat the desired area.
- Rigid Seal: The hard, rigid nature of the nonsolvent glue may not be suitable for applications where a flexible seal is required, as it could potentially lead to issues with the cooler’s performance.
It’s important to carefully select the appropriate nonsolvent glue for your specific Styrofoam cooler and application needs, as the wrong type of glue may not provide the desired level of sealing or flexibility.
Technical Specifications
To ensure a successful sealing process, it’s essential to understand the technical specifications of each method:
PVA and Water Mixture:
– Ratio: 50:50 mixture of PVA and water
– Tinting: Artists’ acrylic can be used to tint the mixture
– Seal Characteristics: Flexible and durable, but may not be suitable for applications requiring a hard, rigid coat
Elastomeric Paint:
– Seal Characteristics: Expands and contracts with the surface, providing a flexible and waterproof seal
– Application: Straightforward, often requiring only a single coat for adequate protection
– Limitations: May not be suitable for applications requiring a hard, rigid coat
Spray-on Bedliner:
– Seal Characteristics: Durable and waterproof, but may not be suitable for applications requiring a flexible seal
– Application: Requires a spray gun and following the manufacturer’s instructions
Nonsolvent Glue:
– Seal Characteristics: Waterproof, but may not be suitable for applications requiring a flexible seal
– Application: Brush-applied to the desired area, typically the bottom of the cooler
DIY Approach
To seal a Styrofoam cooler using the methods discussed, follow these step-by-step DIY guides:
PVA and Water Mixture or Elastomeric Paint
- Clean the Styrofoam cooler thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Mix the PVA and water in a 50:50 ratio, or use the elastomeric paint as-is.
- Apply the mixture or paint evenly on the cooler’s surface using a spray gun or a brush.
- Allow the mixture or paint to dry completely before using the cooler.
Spray-on Bedliner
- Clean the Styrofoam cooler thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Use a spray gun to apply the spray-on bedliner evenly on the cooler’s surface.
- Allow the bedliner to dry completely before using the cooler.
Nonsolvent Glue
- Clean the Styrofoam cooler thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply the nonsolvent glue evenly on the cooler’s bottom using a brush.
- Allow the glue to dry completely before using the cooler.
Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines when using any of these sealing methods to ensure the best results and your personal safety.
References:
– Sealing Polystyrene foam? – RPF
– HOW TO FIX LEAKING STYROFOAM BOX – YouTube
– Which spray liner for foam cooler? : r/Fishing – Reddit
– waterproofing / weatherproofing styrofoam – Bogleheads.org
– how do you repair a leaking styrofoam cooler – JustAnswer