Styrofoam thermal insulation

Types of Styrofoam Thermal Insulation

Styrofoam thermal insulation is a type of insulation used in building construction. It is made from polystyrene, a plastic material that is light in weight and has good insulation properties. Styrofoam thermal insulation is used to keep buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer. It is installed in walls, roofs, and floors to prevent heat from escaping or entering the building. This type of insulation is popular among contractors and homeowners because it is affordable and effective.

There are two main types of styrofoam thermal insulation, expanded and extruded. Their differences are explained in detail below:

• Expanded Styrofoam thermal insulation

  Expanded styrofoam thermal insulation is also known as EPS. This type of insulation works well for buildings because it is cheaper than other types. It is made by mixing polystyrene beads with a blowing agent that expands the beads. The beads are then heated and fused together to form a foam. EPS is popular for insulating roofs, walls, and foundations.

  The good thing about expanded styrofoam thermal insulation is that it is not sensitive to moisture. It keeps its insulation properties even when exposed to water. It is also environmentally friendly because it can be recycled. Buildings that are insulated with EPS use less energy, which is good for the environment.

• Extruded Styrofoam thermal insulation

  Extruded styrofoam thermal insulation is also called XPS. This type of insulation is made by creating a foam through a chemical process called extrusion. The foam is denser than EPS, and its insulation properties are better. XPS is insulated with a smooth, rigid board that is easy to install on walls and roofs. This board is made from polystyrene that is melted and forced through a machine that creates a foam. The foam is then cooled and shaped into sheets or boards.

  XPS has good moisture resistance, and its insulation properties decrease less when exposed to water. It is also durable and long-lasting. However, XPS is more expensive than EPS.

Functions and Features of Styrofoam Thermal Insulation

Styrofoam thermal insulation has several applications and features that make it an ideal insulation material for contractors and manufacturers. These include:

• Insulation

  Styrofoam thermal insulation is widely used in residential and commercial buildings to control temperature. The materials insulated keep the internal temperatures constant, thus reducing the need for HVAC systems. This insulation allows energy to be saved and environmental degradation to be reduced.

• Lightweight and ease of handling

  Styrofoam is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport and handle during construction. This reduces labor costs and time spent on projects. Its lightness also allows it to be used in remote areas where carrying heavy materials is a challenge.

• Moisture resistance

  Styrofoam is water resistant, which prevents the thermal insulation from losing its R-value. This allows it to be used in foundations, roof decks, and areas with high moisture. Its resistance to water also prevents mold and mildew growth, which ensures durability.

• Compression strength

  Styrofoam has a high compressive strength, which makes it ideal for applications in load-bearing structures. This includes insulation in concrete slabs and underpasses. Its compressive strength also ensures a stable surface that can be easily built.

• Versatility

  Styrofoam thermal insulation can be used in different applications, including below-grade insulation, above-grade insulation, and insulated concrete forms. Its versatility makes it a popular material in construction.

• Long-lasting

  When maintained well, styrofoams last for a long time and offer a consistent level of thermal protection. This makes them more cost-effective than other insulation materials. Their durability makes them a preferred choice for many contractors.

• Environmental impact

  Although styrofoam has several benefits, it also has a negative environmental impact. This is because it is made from polystyrene, a petroleum-based product. It is also recycled after being used, which causes pollution. However, some manufacturers are trying to come up with sustainable styrofoam thermal insulation products that use renewable materials.

Applications of styrofoam thermal insulation

• Residential Construction

  Residential construction, or the building of homes, uses foam board insulation a lot. Builders put it on the outside walls of houses. This keeps the heat inside when it's warm and keeps the cool air from spilling out. Or, it keeps the heat from leaving outside during hot weather. Foam board insulation makes houses comfy.

• Commercial Buildings

  Commercial buildings, like offices and stores, use rigid foam insulation a lot, too. Insulation keeps the heat in or the cool air from spilling out. This makes the buildings more energy-efficient. When more energy-efficient, the heating and cooling costs are lower. So, commercial buildings benefit from foam board insulation.

• Garages and Workshops

  Garages and workshops are also insulated with rigid foam boards. The insulated walls and ceilings help keep the temperatures more steady. Even without heat or cool air, the foam insulation helps maintain a comfortable temperature. So, garages and workshops are usable in more extreme temperatures than without insulation.

• Storage Units

  Storage units are places where people keep their things safe for a while. Insulating the walls and ceilings with foam board keeps the temperatures more steady. This is better for items that cannot withstand extreme heat or cold. The foam board insulation helps protect stored belongings from damage due to the weather.

• Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and Trailers

  Rigid foam insulation is used in RVs and trailers, too. It provides insulation with less weight. This is important when traveling. Insulating the walls and ceilings helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside an RV or trailer. Whether it's hot or cold outside, the foam board insulation keeps the interior more pleasant.

• Specialized Applications

  There are also special uses for rigid foam insulation. In some areas, like wine cellars, insulation is needed more. Other places, like saunas, need insulation to keep the heat inside. Sauna insulation is done with moisture-resistant foam board. So, there are special applications for foam board insulation, too.

How to choose styrofoam thermal insulation

When selecting an EPS foam board, consider the following factors:

• Thermal performance

  The primary purpose of a styrofoam thermal insulation board is to provide thermal insulation. Therefore, check the R-value, which indicates the board's insulation capacity. EPS boards with a higher R-value offer better insulation and are suitable for regions with extreme temperatures.

• Density and thickness

  The density of the foam board affects its insulation capacity. Density ranges from 10 to 30 kg/m3. EPS boards with high density have better compressive strength and thermal insulation. Also, consider the thickness of the insulation foam board. Insulation boards are available in different thicknesses, and a thicker board has a higher R-value.

• Moisture resistance

  The location of the application will determine the type of moisture-resistant property required. For example, a waterproof board is suitable for applications in a wet area like a foundation or basement. Waterproof EPS boards have a closed-cell structure that prevents water absorption. Alternatively, a vapor barrier board is suitable for above-grade walls and roofs since it prevents moisture from condensing.

• Compressive strength

  Compressive strength shows the board's ability to resist deformation under pressure. EPS boards used for structural applications like roofs and floors require high compressive strength. Low-strength boards are suitable for insulation applications like walls.

• Fire resistance

  Styrofoam is highly flammable; therefore, choose boards with flame retardants to meet local building codes. Flame retardant boards have a higher level of safety for insulation applications.

• Environmental impact

  The blowing agent used to manufacture an EPS board contributes to global warming. Therefore, choose boards with low global warming potential (GWP) blowing agents. Also, consider the recyclability of the board at the end of its life cycle.

• Cost

  Although Styrofoam boards are pocket-friendly insulation materials, the cost varies depending on the brand and type. Therefore, choose a board that meets the insulation requirements within the budget.

Styrofoam thermal insulation Q&A

Q1: What are the disadvantages of foam board insulation?

A1: Foam board insulation is vulnerable to moisture, which means it has to be installed properly to avoid leaks. Its R-value also decreases when exposed to extreme temperatures, and it is not environmentally friendly since it is made from polystyrene.

Q2: How long will foam board insulation last?

A2: Styrofoam thermal insulation has a long lifespan and can last for decades. This is because it is not prone to rot or rust like other insulation materials. As such, it is a preferred choice for permanent structures.

Q3: Which is better between fiberglass and foam board insulation?

A3: There is no definitive answer to this question since each type of insulation has its advantages and disadvantages. Foam board insulation has a higher R-value/thermal resistance than fiberglass insulation. However, foam board insulation is more effective when sealed, while fiberglass insulation allows air movement.