5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Extruded Insulation Board？

If you're looking to make your home more energy-efficient, reduce utility costs, and enhance overall comfort, then you've come to the right place. In this blog, we'll explore the ins and outs of extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation, a popular choice among homeowners and construction professionals alike.

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Extruded polystyrene insulation offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent option for both new construction and refurbishment projects. From its exceptional thermal performance to its moisture resistance and durability, this foam insulation board has proven its effectiveness in creating energy-efficient and sustainable buildings.

What is Extruded Polystyrene Insulation?  

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) is a type of rigid foam insulation material made from polystyrene, a synthetic polymer derived from petroleum. The manufacturing process involves melting the polystyrene beads and then extruding them through a dye to form a continuous, closed-cell structure.

The resulting foam boards have a smooth, dense surface and a uniform structure. They are available in various thicknesses, densities, and dimensions to suit different insulation requirements.

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What is XPS Insulation Used For?

Below are a few examples of the versatile applications of extruded polystyrene insulation:

1. Wall Insulation: XPS insulation is commonly used to insulate exterior walls, providing a thermal barrier that reduces heat loss or gain. It helps improve energy efficiency, maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and reduce heating and cooling costs.

2. Roof Insulation: XPS insulation is an effective choice for insulating roofs, whether it's flat roofs, pitched roofs, or inverted roofs. It helps prevent heat transfer between the building and the outside environment, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling.

3. Floor Insulation: XPS insulation can be installed under concrete slabs or floor finishes to minimise heat loss and enhance thermal comfort. XPS boards with higher compressive strength making them ideal for floor insulating purposes. It is commonly used in both residential and commercial buildings to improve energy efficiency and provide a barrier against cold floors.

Why use Extruded Polystyrene Insulation?

There are several compelling reasons to use extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation in construction and building projects. Here are some key benefits:

1. Excellent Thermal Performance: XPS insulation provides high thermal resistance, effectively reducing heat transfer through building components. It helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, improves energy efficiency, and reduces heating and cooling costs.

2. Moisture Resistance: XPS insulation has a closed-cell structure that makes it highly resistant to moisture absorption. Its moisture resistance helps protect against mould, mildew, and rot, promoting a healthier indoor environment.

3. Durability and Longevity: XPS insulation is known for its strength and durability. It can withstand heavy loads without deforming or compressing, making it suitable for load-bearing applications. It has a long lifespan and retains its insulation properties over time, providing long-term energy efficiency benefits.

4. Versatility: XPS insulation is available in various thicknesses, densities, and dimensions, offering flexibility in meeting different insulation requirements. It can be used on walls and floors, adapting to diverse construction applications.

5. Lightweight: XPS insulation is lightweight compared to some other insulation materials. This makes it easier to handle, transport, and install, reducing labour and installation costs.
6. Building Regulation Compliance: XPS insulation typically meets or exceeds building regulation requirements for thermal insulation. It is recognised and accepted by building authorities, making it a trusted and widely used insulation material.

By choosing extruded polystyrene foam insulation, you can improve energy efficiency, enhance building comfort, protect against moisture damage, and contribute to sustainable construction practices. Its combination of thermal performance, durability, and versatility makes it a reliable choice for various insulation needs.

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EPS Insulation Vs XPS Insulation 

Both extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) have their own advantages and considerations, and the choice between the two depends on specific project requirements. Here's a comparison between XPS and EPS insulation: 

1. Insulation Performance: XPS insulation typically has a higher R-value (thermal resistance) per inch compared to EPS insulation. This means that XPS provides slightly better insulation performance for a given thickness. However, both materials offer good thermal insulation properties.

2. Moisture Resistance: XPS insulation has better moisture resistance than EPS. Its closed-cell structure makes it highly resistant to water absorption, while EPS is more susceptible to moisture penetration. 

3. Compressive Strength: XPS insulation has higher compressive strength than EPS. It can withstand heavy loads without significant deformation, making it suitable for applications requiring load-bearing capacity, such as insulating plaza decks or under concrete slabs.

4. Cost: EPS insulation is generally cheaper than XPS insulation. EPS is more cost-effective for many applications, especially when a higher compressive strength or exceptional moisture resistance is not required.

5. Installation and Handling: Both XPS and EPS insulation are lightweight and easy to handle. They can be cut, shaped, and installed using similar methods. EPS insulation is typically available in larger panel sizes, which can speed up installation.

XPS insulation generally offers higher moisture resistance and compressive strength compared to EPS insulation, but it tends to be more expensive. EPS insulation, on the other hand, is cost-effective and offers good insulation performance, making it suitable for many projects. However, the choice between XPS and EPS depends on the specific requirements, budget, and priorities of the project.

What are the Disadvantages of Extruded Polystyrene Insulation?

Some key disadvantages of XPS insulation:

1. Environmental impact: Derived from petroleum, limited recyclability.
2. Global Warming Potential: Higher compared to some other insulation materials.
3. Limited recyclability: Challenging to recycle due to its closed-cell structure.
4. Vulnerability to UV exposure: Can degrade when exposed to sunlight.
5. Health concerns: Potential emissions of VOCs during manufacturing.
6. Cost: Generally more expensive than some alternative insulation materials.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Will XPS foam insulation block sound?

XPS foam insulation provides some sound-blocking properties due to its dense and rigid structure, but it is not specifically designed as a soundproofing insulation

Is Extruded Polystyrene a good insulator?

Yes, extruded polystyrene (XPS) is considered a good insulator. It has excellent thermal insulation properties, meaning it effectively reduces heat transfer through walls, roofs, floors, and other building components. XPS insulation's closed-cell structure minimises air movement and heat conduction, providing high levels of insulation performance. It helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, improves energy efficiency, and reduces heating and cooling costs.

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Is Extruded Polystyrene Insulation Recyclable / Environmentally Friendly?  

Extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation has some environmental considerations. While it offers energy-saving benefits and durability, there are aspects that may be less environmentally friendly:

1. Raw Materials: XPS insulation is derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. The extraction and processing of petroleum have environmental impacts, including carbon emissions and habitat disruption.

2. Manufacturing Process: The manufacturing of XPS insulation requires energy and involves the use of blowing agents, which can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and have a global warming potential.

3. Limited Recyclability: This polystyrene foam insulation board is less commonly recycled compared to other insulation materials like expanded polystyrene (EPS). The closed-cell structure of XPS makes recycling more challenging, and proper disposal at the end of its life cycle is essential to minimize environmental impact.

However, it's worth noting that manufacturers are taking steps to improve the environmental profile of XPS foam boards. This includes increasing the use of recycled content, exploring alternative blowing agents with lower global warming potential, and developing more recycling options.

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In Conclusion:

In conclusion, extruded polystyrene insulation offers significant benefits in terms of thermal performance, moisture resistance, and durability. It is an effective choice for enhancing energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs, and creating comfortable living spaces. 

To make the most informed decision, it is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of XPS insulation against specific project requirements, budget constraints, and environmental considerations. Additionally, staying updated on advancements in XPS insulation technology and recycling initiatives can contribute to making more sustainable choices.

By understanding the properties, applications, and potential environmental implications of extruded polystyrene insulation, homeowners, construction professionals, and DIY enthusiasts can make informed decisions and contribute to creating energy-efficient, comfortable, and sustainable buildings.

For top-rated XPS foam boards visit Buy Insulation Online. We stock xps boards from leading brands like Polyfoam, Prowarm and others. In addition to foam insulating materials like PIR boards and expanded polystyrene, we also stock loft insulation batts and boards, multifoil insulation and a wide eco-insulation range. By purchasing insulation online from us, you also improve your carbon footprint!  

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When it comes to building up a home’s insulation, rigid foam insulation is one of the preferred options to use. There are a variety of different traits of foam board insulation, from its accessibility to its effectiveness, that makes it a key construction component. With this said, there are a variety of different subsets of rigid foam insulation for homeowners, property owners, and construction companies alike to consider. Here is a comparison of all the different options on the table and the different pros and cons of each.

Table of Contents

What Does Rigid Foam Insulation Do?

First, let’s give a brief explanation of the purpose of rigid foam insulation. Generally, this serves as a continuous insulation layer, generally applied to the roof and exterior walls. This helps contribute to less lost energy through the framing members, which, in turn, leads to lower energy costs and a more comfortable area in general. In some cases, foam is also placed under basement slabs to lower heat loss via the concrete. 

What separates rigid foam insulation from other types? It’s all in the name. Compared to, say, batt insulation or blown insulation, rigid foam is stronger and doesn’t shift out of place after installation. In addition, it is resistant to water and pests, which is why it is commonly used in crawlspaces and basements. It can also serve as an air barrier if the boards are properly sealed along the edges and joints. Another benefit of it is its versatility. This can easily be cut and glued to fit into areas that have unusual shapes. 

An important term to bring up in this conversation is R-value or thermal resistance. R-value is a metric that determines an insulating material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the foam board insulation does at its job. This is generally based on the following factors:

• -Foam insulation board type
• -Thickness
• -Density

Factors like aging, temperature, and the amount of moisture may also be calculated for certain insulation types. 

The Different Rigid Foam Insulation Options

With a basic explanation of the purpose of rigid foam insulation, we can talk about the various types. Each has its ideal applications, but professionals will need to often choose between one or another based on the project/customer needs.

Expanded Polystyrene

Also known as EPS or beadboard, this is generally the best budget option for people who need rigid foam insulation. While it doesn’t have as much R-value as the other options here, you can expect a range of around 3.6 to 4.2 per inch. This makes it a good way to add R-Value in an attic, on top of a roof, or in wall cavities. But if there is a risk of water exposure, invest in a moisture-resistant coating or film.  

Extruded Polystyrene

Also known as XPS or blue board, this is the best fit for any applications below grade. Compared to XPS, it has better moisture resistance, even without coating or films. In addition, it has a higher R-value (roughly 5 per inch) and is denser and more durable. The only drawback is that it generally costs more.

Polyisocyanurate

Also known as ISO or polyiso, this is considered the eco-friendly option when it comes to rigid foam insulation. This contains roughly 9% recycled materials and has a higher R-value, at 6.5 per inch on average. For those concerned about safety and eco-friendliness, the flame retardant in polyiso is less toxic than the types used for other insulations. The drawback is that this is the most expensive of all the options covered here. In addition, it tends to absorb water, making it unsuitable for below-grade applications.

Expanded Polyurethane

Also known as EPU, this is a specific type of rigid foam insulation that’s generally intended for insulated concrete forms. These serve as a replacement to the conventional wooden forms for fresh concrete. These are different from your conventional rigid foam insulation in that they are hollow form blocks, which get left in place as the concrete cures. This allows for insulation as long as the structure’s lifespan. This offers an average R-value of 5.9 per inch and is surprisingly durable. 

Mineral Wool 

This is quite different than all the other options mentioned to this point, largely because it’s not a petroleum-based foam product. Instead, mineral wool is a recycled item created with stone dust from blast furnaces. This gives it a few unique benefits. It’s completely non-toxic and won’t create any off-gas into your home as foam products do. This means that it won’t lose R-value over time and allows for better air quality. Other benefits of mineral wool are that it helps with soundproofing, is completely fireproof, and isn’t impacted by moisture. However, it isn’t an air barrier at all. In addition, it costs more than fiberglass.

At this point, we’ve covered the different facets of your rigid foam insulation options. In some cases, there’s an obvious case where only one type is appropriate for the job that you are doing. In other cases, though, the best choice is a bit more of a flexible decision. You can have two installations that meet the basic requirements, but your decision is more based on what it will cost you, what type of materials are available, or how long it will take to install.

In these cases, it’s important that you fully understand the data on your different insulation choices and what it takes for you to utilize them. The only way for you to gather the data you need for this is through

project management software such as eSub. Trying to figure out how long it will take? Track your employees, equipment, and manhours. Worried about financial costs? Look at your history of bids and actuals to make sure that your quotes still leave a profit for your business.

How eSUB Can Help

eSUB is a cloud-based project management platform built especially for subcontractors. It seamlessly integrates with leading construction software systems so you can easily switch from your current RFI process to a cloud-based system to upgrade RFI process.

eSUB organizes all of your project information in one place, allows for smooth collaboration, and streamlines communication through its intuitive interface. It also works on your mobile, so you can track projects on the go—no matter where or when—and stay up-to-date.

FAQs: Rigid Foam Insulation Types

1. What is the purpose of rigid foam insulation in construction?

• Rigid foam insulation serves as a continuous insulation layer applied to roofs and exterior walls to reduce energy loss through framing members, leading to lower energy costs and increased comfort. It can also be used under basement slabs to lower heat loss.

2. How does rigid foam insulation differ from other insulation types?

• Rigid foam insulation is stronger, doesn’t shift after installation, is resistant to water and pests, and can act as an air barrier when properly sealed. It is also versatile and can be customized to fit unusual shapes.

3. What is R-value, and why is it important in rigid foam insulation?

• R-value is a metric that measures an insulation material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation performs. R-value depends on factors like foam board type, thickness, and density, as well as external factors like aging, temperature, and moisture.

4. What are the different types of rigid foam insulation available?

• There are several types of rigid foam insulation, including:
  • Expanded Polystyrene (EPS or beadboard)
  • Extruded Polystyrene (XPS or blue board)
  • Polyisocyanurate (ISO or polyiso)
  • Expanded Polyurethane (EPU)
  • Mineral Wool

5. Which type of rigid foam insulation is the most budget-friendly option?

• Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is generally the best budget option. While it has a slightly lower R-value, it is cost-effective and suitable for various applications.

6. What is the best rigid foam insulation type for below-grade applications?

• Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) is the best choice for applications below grade. It offers better moisture resistance and a higher R-value.

7. Are there eco-friendly options among rigid foam insulation types?

• Polyisocyanurate (ISO or polyiso) is considered an eco-friendly option as it contains roughly 9% recycled materials. It also has a high R-value, but it may not be suitable for below-grade applications due to moisture absorption.

8. What is unique about Expanded Polyurethane (EPU) rigid foam insulation?

• Expanded Polyurethane (EPU) is intended for insulated concrete forms and remains in place as concrete cures. It offers an average R-value of 5.9 per inch and is exceptionally durable.

9. What makes Mineral Wool insulation different from petroleum-based foam products?

• Mineral Wool is non-toxic, does not emit harmful gases, and maintains its R-value over time. It also offers soundproofing, is fireproof, and is unaffected by moisture. However, it does not act as an air barrier and is generally more expensive than fiberglass.

10. How can project management software like eSUB assist in the decision-making process for rigid foam insulation installation?

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