Extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) are two types of insulation available for use in buildings. While each type is designed to have its own unique qualities, they are often referred to as the same product. Extruded polystyrene insulation is produced from a variety of raw materials, including plastic granules, XPS board, and additives. The extruded polystyrene board is made from a combination of raw materials, which are then combined in a manufacturing process to create an insulated wall panel.
XPS
XPS extruded polystryrene insulation has a high level of consistency in thermal performance when used as building insulation. It is also resistant to air and moisture, making it a cost-effective choice for insulation. However, it is not as flexible as EPS or other foam board insulation, so it may not be appropriate for all building applications. If you’re not sure whether XPS is right for your project, contact a company that deals with XPS insulation.
XPS extruded polysyrene insulation is manufactured through an extrusion process. This process involves melting plastic resin and other ingredients. This liquid is then extruded through a die, where it expands during the cooling process to form rigid closed cell insulation. Expanded polystyrene, on the other hand, uses a mould to contain small foam beads, and is not a closed-cell insulation.
The choice between EPS and XPS extruded polysyrene insulation is an important one for construction professionals. Both types of insulation provide high-performance building protection. Understanding their benefits and drawbacks will help you make the right decision. XPS is more expensive than EPS, but it provides high initial R-value per inch. It also offers longer-term strength and compatibility with different materials.
XPS is a rigid foam that is lightweight and resistant to water. It’s ideal for use in wall insulation, as well as cool rooms. It’s also a great choice for under-slab applications, such as in a concrete slab. XPS board can also be used as a structural element in commercial buildings and is often recognizable by color and thickness.
EPS
EPS and XPS are both made of polystyrene resin. They are created by using a blowing agent such as Pentane to expand the resin beads. This process creates cellular structures that are highly effective at trapping air and maintaining their temperature. This insulation is primarily available in white and grey panels, but grey polystyrene is typically more expensive.
XPS is a great option if you’re looking for high-quality insulating material for your home. Unlike EPS, XPS is a more durable and eco-friendly material that is compatible with the environment. Both EPS and XPS are extremely effective at maintaining a stable temperature. However, the most important consideration when choosing between the two types is the type of insulation you want.
The pros of EPS extruded polystyesterone foam include its low thermal conductivity. This foam is 98% air, which makes it an excellent insulator. Thermal conductivity values of EPS at 20 kg/m3 are 0.035 – 0.037 W/mK at 10 degC. EPS foam is also a versatile and affordable choice, and it reduces carbon emissions while insulating a home.
EPS is commonly used in construction and roofing applications. It has excellent thermal insulation and damping properties and is extremely lightweight. In addition to being lightweight, EPS is also recyclable and can be used to make picture frames, coat hangers, and other items. EPS extruded polystyrene insulation comes in a finished shape. This makes it a great option for homes that need to be durable and flexible.
EPS is HFC, CFC, and HCFC free, making it a great alternative to plastic materials for insulation. It is also light enough to reduce fuel consumption. And thanks to its non-flammable properties, EPS can be used to protect food from spoilage. So, if you’re looking for an alternative to plastic insulation, consider expanding EPS. You won’t be disappointed.
XPS vapor retarder
The perm rating of an XPS vapor retarder is an important factor in determining its effectiveness. It measures water vapor permeability, and the higher the number, the less water vapor can diffuse through it. As the thickness of XPS insulation increases, the perm rating decreases. As a result, a lower perm rating is an effective vapor retarder.
A vapor retarder is an integral part of the building envelope. Unlike traditional insulation, XPS vapor retarders are not a substitute for a proper moisture barrier. In fact, a vapor retarder alone cannot prevent moisture from penetrating into a home. For example, the permeance of unpainted drywall is high, allowing up to 30 quarts of water vapor to pass through a 1-inch square of drywall.
A vapor retarder can also be effective for a moisture barrier. DuPont Tyvek is an excellent choice. It has the advantage of keeping bulk water and air out, but still allows moisture vapor inside walls to escape. However, XPS is not a vapor barrier. The only difference between XPS and DuPont Tyvek is the way XPS is manufactured. Some XPS boards are unfaced and other have different plastic facings. The difference in vapor retarders and vapor barriers can result in a significant reduction in the R-value of a wall assembly.
While both XPS and EPS are excellent insulators, the R-values of these products are not identical. XPS has a higher initial R-value than EPS, but over time, its R-value decreases. Extruded polystyrene insulation is also more expensive than EPS, so you can save money by choosing an EPS vapor retarder.
XPS air barrier
XPS air barriers provide an extra layer of protection to the walls of a building, preventing heat transfer from inside the structure to the outside. To determine whether an XPS air barrier is effective, consider the thickness of the layer and its perm rating. A vapor barrier is less permeable than other materials, while a semi-permeable one is more permeable. An effective air barrier cannot let air pass through it when it is held to the mouth. It must also be durable, as it must hold its shape.
Polystyrene insulation is made from extruded polystyrenol. It is a closed-cell polymer that provides energy efficiency and long-term strength to a building. XPS board insulation is available in standard shapes and sizes. The foam can be up to 102 mm thick. It is not vapor-permeable, but it is a good choice for buildings that need a strong barrier against moisture.
XPS is a thermoplastic polymer that is also known as XPS. It is typically stronger than EPS, with a density of 28-45 kg/m3. It is made from crude oil and has a wide range of uses. The material is also popular for craftwork and model building. Despite its popularity, it has a poor record of durability.
XPS has a lower thermal conductivity than traditional rigid foam insulation boards. Its thermal conductivity is 0.028 W/m.K. The lower the value, the more resistant the insulating material is to heat transfer. However, this does not mean that XPS is the most environmentally friendly option. If you’re concerned about the environment, extruded polystyrene insulation is an environmentally-friendly choice.
XPS strength
Compared to EPS, XPS has higher R-value retention. While EPS has a lower R-value retention, the insulation has a higher density and is more stable. Extruded polystyrene has off-gassing properties, which slowly reduce its R-value. As the gas escapes, the insulation’s R-value decreases as well.
Compressive strength is a measurement of insulation’s overall strength. EPS and XPS have varying levels of strength, ranging from 10 to 60 psi. Higher-psi materials are more expensive, but lower-rated products may be sufficient. Depending on your insulation needs, lower-psi products can be sufficient. And, because they are available in multiple compressive strengths, they are a more affordable option than high-grade EPS or XPS.
XPS products are designed for different applications. It is used in ballasted roofs, as a protective layer for waterproofing membranes, and for flooring, walls, and floors. It is available in slabs of varying thickness and can be easily cut and installed. It is highly resistant to molds, which are one of the main causes of insulating materials’ failure. TECHNONICOL has a wide range of XPS products for both private and civil housebuilding. Among them are insulation for plastered facades, pitched roofs, floors, and walls.
XPS foam insulation boards are typically secured with 16-gauge wire staples, 25-mm head plastic cap nails, and 9.5-mm head galvanized roofing nails. Nails should not be driven too deeply into the extruded polystyrene foam insulation boards. XPS foam insulation boards are best secured on a 406-mm (16-in.) on-center basis.