Insta Stik Quik Set by DOW – Review of the 1K Spray Polyurethane Adhesive Kit for Roofing and Board Bond Applications

When it comes to professional roofing and insulation board installation, choosing the right adhesive is critical for durability, productivity, and compliance. Among the top products in the spray polyurethane adhesive market, Insta Stik™ Quik Set from DOW stands out as a go-to solution for roofing contractors across North America.

In this review, we’ll explore what Insta Stik is, how it works, what makes it unique, and why it’s one of the best options for roof board bonding adhesive kits available in 2025.

What Is Insta Stik Quik Set?

Insta Stik™ Quik Set is a one-component polyurethane foam adhesive (1K) designed for low-slope commercial roofing and insulation board bonding. Supplied in pressurized canisters or kits, this adhesive eliminates the need for mechanical fasteners and significantly speeds up installation time.

It is specially formulated to bond roofing insulation boards, such as:

• Polyiso (polyisocyanurate)

• EPS (expanded polystyrene)

• XPS (extruded polystyrene)

• DensDeck®, Fiberboard, and more

It can also adhere to various substrates, including concrete, wood, metal, gypsum, and existing roof membranes.

Applications: Roofing and Board Bonding

Insta Stik Quik Set is engineered for two primary uses:

1. Roofing Insulation Board Adhesive

Ideal for commercial roofing systems, Insta Stik is used to bond insulation panels directly to roof decks or to each other. It’s widely used in low-slope and flat roofing projects where mechanical fasteners may not be ideal due to thermal bridging, noise, or structural concerns.

2. Adhesive for Vertical and Horizontal Panels

It’s also commonly used for exterior sheathing, wall panels, and cover boards, making it versatile beyond just roof applications. In re-roofing or retrofit jobs, Insta Stik helps secure boards without disturbing existing structures.

Key Features and Benefits

1. One-Component, No Mixing Required

Insta Stik is pre-pressurized and ready-to-use, which simplifies the jobsite workflow. Contractors don’t need to mix Part A and B components like with 2K systems, reducing errors and waste.

2. Fast Set and Quick Grab

It begins to set in just 3–5 minutes, with full curing typically complete in under an hour (depending on temperature and humidity). The quick grab improves productivity on site, especially in large-scale roofing jobs.

3. Compatible With Many Substrates

Thanks to its strong adhesive formulation, it bonds to a wide range of materials including:

• Concrete and cementitious decks

• Wood and plywood

• OSB (oriented strand board)

• Metal (galvanized, aluminum)

• Built-up roofing (BUR) membranes

• TPO, EPDM, and PVC (check compatibility chart)

4. Weather Tolerance

Insta Stik performs well in a wide range of temperatures and humidity conditions. It’s designed for use even in cool or damp environments, making it ideal for variable North American climates.

5. Reduces Fasteners and Thermal Bridging

By replacing mechanical fasteners, Insta Stik helps:

• Improve the thermal efficiency of roof systems

• Eliminate puncture risks in membranes

• Reduce noise from drilling or fastening

6. Low VOC and Ozone-Friendly

The formulation meets low VOC regulations and uses an HFO blowing agent, making it compliant in the US and Canada under environmental guidelines like LEED, CalGreen, and CAN/ULC standards.

Installation Process

Using Insta Stik is relatively straightforward:

1. Shake the canister thoroughly before use.

2. Attach the gun hose assembly or use the straw for smaller kits.

3. Apply beads of adhesive in a serpentine or line pattern based on board size.

4. Lay the board within 2 minutes of application and apply uniform pressure.

5. Walk on the board or use ballast to ensure firm contact.

Cure time depends on ambient conditions, but light foot traffic is typically acceptable within 30–60 minutes.

Typical Coverage

Coverage depends on board size, bead spacing, and surface porosity. A 23 lb Insta Stik canister generally covers:

• Up to 300–400 square feet (single bead application)

• More with dual/split beads and smaller insulation panels

Always follow manufacturer guidelines for bead spacing (typically 6"–12" apart for roofing boards).

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Easy to use with minimal training

• Quick set and grab reduces downtime

• No mixing or pump setup needed

• Portable and disposable canisters

• Compatible with most common insulation and roof decks

Cons

• Higher upfront cost per square foot than some traditional adhesives

• Requires proper gun cleaning and pressure management

• Single-use canisters unless professionally reclaimed

Who Should Use Insta Stik Quik Set?

• Roofing contractors needing a fast, dependable adhesive

• Commercial builders bonding insulation or sheathing boards

• Retrofit and re-roof projects where fasteners aren’t allowed

• Insulation installers seeking a low-mess, efficient solution

Final Verdict

Insta Stik™ Quik Set by DOW is a top-tier roofing and board bond adhesive that delivers on speed, strength, and reliability. For anyone working on low-slope roofs, insulation paneling, or large-scale commercial construction, it’s a smart investment in both time savings and build quality.

With expanding performance across temperatures and substrates, it’s no surprise that Insta Stik is trusted by professionals across the US and Canada. Whether you're working under strict building codes or trying to minimize thermal loss, this adhesive system offers long-lasting performance and high efficiency.