Cost of Renting a Spray Foam Machine in Canada
The first time I considered insulating my garage, I didn’t know the first thing about it. Hiring a professional sounded expensive, and I thought, “Can I do it myself?” So I decided to investigate the Cost of renting a Spray Foam Machine in Canada. What I discovered might surprise you, and could surprise you, too, if you’re considering a project to insulate things yourself.
Why People in Canada Are Renting Spray Foam Machines Instead of Hiring Contractors
Let’s face it, though: having spray foam professionally installed can get expensive. Depending on your area and the scale of the job, it can cost between $2 and $7 per square foot. That might not seem like much until you try to measure your whole basement or attic.
So, people began looking at another path: renting the equipment and doing it themselves. That’s when the concept of a spray foam equipment rental took off in Canada. On the other hand, even if you treat a smaller space, the cost of renting a spray foam machine for a few hours is usually more budget-friendly in Canada.
Here’s what you can expect for rental pricing:
- Basic portable spray foam kits: $350 to $600 per day
- Professional-grade spray foam machines: $1,200 to $2,500 per week
- Insulation foam kits (disposable cans): Around $250 for 600 board feet
And remember, this cost typically does not cover any protective gear or the foam itself, which will likely cost another $200 to $500, depending on what you require.
Now, this isn’t to say it’s a piece of cake. And while it can save money, one must be cautious with mixing the chemicals, don full protection, and learn how to spray evenly. It can be done, sure — but not without some premeditation.
Most Canadians who go the DIY route are insulating:
- Small garages
- Crawl spaces
- Cabins and sheds
- Basement rim joists
So if your space fits into these categories, and you’re not afraid of some hands-on work, renting might be worth it.
Also Explore: Spray Foam Insulation Cost Per Square Foot in Canada: A Personal Guide
Is Renting a Spray Foam Insulation Machine Actually Cheaper Than Hiring Pros?
Here’s a story for you. My neighbor, Joe, had a 500-square-foot workshop he wanted insulated. He got two quotes from contractors. One was $3,500 and the other came in at $4,200. So, he thought, “Let me see if I can rent a machine.”
He ended up renting a pro-level machine for $1,800 for the week, bought materials for about $900, and spent about $200 on safety gear. Total cost? Around $2,900. He saved over $1,000, even after buying everything.
But here’s the catch — Joe had to learn everything from scratch. He watched hours of videos, read guides, and practiced before touching his actual walls. So yes, renting spray foam insulation equipment in Canada can save you money, but only if you’re ready to put in the effort.
Here’s a quick cost comparison:
For a 500 sq ft project:
- Professional Install: $3,500 – $4,200
- DIY (Rent + Materials): $2,500 – $3,200
For a 1000 sq ft project:
- Professional Install: $6,000 – $8,000
- DIY (Rent + Materials): $4,000 – $5,500
Safety Gear & Setup Time:
- Professional Install: Included in the service
- DIY: 5–10 hours needed for preparation, gear, and learning curve
Renting makes sense if:
- You’re doing a small to mid-size project
- You’re comfortable handling spray equipment
- You want to save 20–30% in labor costs
So, when considering the cost of renting a spray foam machine in Canada, factor in not just money, but time and effort too.
Also Explore: The Complete Guide to Spray Foam Tools and Applications
Where to Rent Spray Foam Equipment in Canada and What to Expect
If you’re now thinking, “Okay, this might work for me,” the next step is knowing where to get the equipment. Thankfully, spray foam machine rental in Canada is growing, and many hardware stores and insulation suppliers offer it.
Popular places you can check:
- Home Depot Canada (some locations)
- Foam It Green Canada
- IDI Distributors
- Specialty Insulation Stores in Ontario, BC, and Alberta
What you’ll need to provide when renting:
- A deposit ($500 to $1,000)
- Proof of ID
- Credit card on file
- A signed waiver stating you understand how to use the equipment
Many places also offer training, either in person or with video tutorials. And some even send a tech for setup if you’re within their service area.
Before renting, ask these questions:
- How many board feet does the kit cover?
- Are hoses, guns, and mixing tips included?
- What foam type is provided (closed-cell or open-cell)?
- Is safety gear part of the rental?
Knowing these things can help prevent hidden costs and also ensure your project doesn’t stall out midway through.
And such as for the spray foam rental cost Canada, this may most likely vary based on the area. Cities like Toronto or Vancouver are more expensive than the smaller towns in Manitoba or Saskatchewan.
Explore More: The Power of Foam Spray Guns and Spray Foam Machine Rentals
What Are the Pros and Cons of Renting Spray Foam Machines in Canada?
Let’s talk pros and cons, just to make sure everything’s clear.
Pros
- Save money: You could cut your insulation bill by 25%–40%
- Work on your own schedule: No waiting for contractors
- Perfect for small jobs: Like sealing up rim joists or crawl spaces
- Learn a new skill: It feels pretty satisfying when you do it yourself
Cons
- Learning curve: It takes time to get it right
- Mistakes can be costly: Uneven spray means poor insulation
- Equipment can be bulky: You’ll need space to work and store it
- Physical work: Wearing a suit, respirator, and spraying overhead isn’t easy
For many homeowners, especially in colder provinces like Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Northern Ontario, DIY insulation with rented machines has become a smart option. It’s part cost-saving, part convenience — and a whole lot of learning.
As long as you’re aware of the challenges, the cost of renting a spray foam machine in Canada can feel like a worthwhile investment instead of a gamble.
Conclusion: Is Renting a Spray Foam Machine in Canada Worth It?
If you’re a do-it-yourself homeowner looking to save some money, renting a spray foam machine could be an excellent match. Renting a spray foam machine in Canada typically costs from $350 a day for a smaller kit to more than $2,000 a week for professional gear, but that’s still less expensive than hiring out the job, especially for small areas.
Just remember, this option works best for:
- Smaller DIY projects
- People are comfortable with tools and safety precautions
- Those wanting to save up to 30% off contractor rates
If you’re looking for professional results without the hassle, hiring might still be your best bet. But if you’re ready to gear up and go DIY, renting could save you money — and give you the satisfaction of a job well done.