Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is an energy-efficient and cost-effective insulation material and building solution for architects, building and construction specifiers.
In this blog, we cover a few facts about EPS to help specifiers learn more about its properties compared to alternative insulating materials.
Economical Insulation
EPS is undoubtedly the most cost-effective insulation option when considering the excellent cost-to-performance ratio in achieving the desired thermal insulation in construction projects. The cost of EPS insulation is up to 20% lower compared to polyurethane, polyisocyanurate or mineral wool options (eps.co.uk).
EPS sheets and boards are ideal to use for thermal and sound insulation in walls, roofs and on floors. Other uses include underfloor heating systems, drainage boards, permanent formwork, foundation and prefabricated wall systems.
Thermal performance
EPS is an effective insulator with an excellent thermal conductivity averaging from 0.030 to 0.0040 W/mK, depending on the material density and its applications under-floor, between-floor, walling and roofing.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) manufactured by the Isowall Group is fast becoming recognized as the insulation material of choice by specifiers of “Bills of Quantities”. This comes largely as a result of our technical knowledge backed up by years of experience in the building and construction industry.
Lightweight but strong
EPS is an extremely light material. It is made of foamed polystyrene beads expanded to form a material with approximately 98% air and only 2% plastic resin. EPS has a distinct advantage over heavier materials. It is easier to transport, handle and install.
Despite being lightweight, EPS has great compressive strength and rigidity recommended for structural fills and flooring insulation applications. EPS density ranges from 15 to 30 kg/m3 depending on the grade and meets BS EN 13163 standard building specifications.
Durability and structural stability
When specified and installed correctly, EPS is a durable permanent insulation material in construction. It will remain effective for the life of any application with no deficiency effects to be expected over a 100-year lifecycle. Thus EPS stability does not deteriorate with age.
Isowall produces Isolite range of EPS products. View here more properties of our Isolite EPS.
The Isowall Group has been manufacturing and distributing Isolite Block Moulded EPS since 1985, and Isolite Shape Moulded EPS since 1992. Isolite EPS products are used primarily for insulation, lightweight fillers and semi-rigid cushioning.
