Foam insulation sheets come in large 4-by-8-foot sheets used by builders to insulate walls. Also referred to as pink insulation, extruded polystyrene rigid foam board has an R-value of approximately 5 per inch of thickness.
Builders use foam sheathing to reduce heat transfer and drafts in rim joists, attic floors and exposed basement walls – as well as on walls with facing materials.
Rigid Foam Board
Rigid foam board insulation is an efficient way to cut energy losses and stop air leakage, stop thermal bridging, and regulate indoor temperature. This type of insulation is perfect for basements, foundation walls, above-grade walls and roofs.
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), Extruded Polystyrene (XPS), and Polyisocyanurate are three primary forms of rigid foam insulation: expanded Polystyrene (EPS), Extruded Polystyrene (XPS), and Polyisocyanurate. Of these options, expanded and extruded Polystyrene contain flame retardants known as HBCD flame retardants that contribute to global warming; however there are now alternative low-toxicity options available as alternatives containing no such harmful flame retardants; these options contain HBCD flame retardants as an added petrochemical source, while Polyisocyanurate options provide several low toxicity alternatives with few emissions as an option.
Polyiso is an effective choice that can lower a home’s energy consumption by decreasing heat loss through structural elements, like wooden or steel studs. Plus, you can purchase versions with foil vapor barriers to enhance its performance even further and make it an excellent option for below grade applications. Unlike fiberglass batts, rigid foam insulation does not lose its R-value over time, so to maintain optimal results make sure to store it dry to prevent it from rotting away or becoming ineffective.
Expanded Polystyrene
Expanded polystyrene (EPS), also known as expanded polystyrene foam insulation, is an inert material with excellent thermal insulation properties that combines lightweight weight with strength and insulation properties, making it the go-to foam material in packaging and building products. Due to its closed cell insulation structure and water repellent properties, EPS foam makes an excellent solution for humid environments such as bathrooms.
Utilising EPS can significantly lower energy consumption and costs associated with your construction project, acting as an excellent insulator that doesn’t diminish over time. Plus, its fireproof properties make it highly resistant and recyclable upon disposal of its useful lifecycle.
EPS foam insulation can also be found in raised floors and lightweight structures for road backfill. As an eco-friendly material that requires less energy to produce and deliver than other materials, foam insulation offers great potential as an easy transportable alternative in remote locations lacking infrastructure for transportation – saving both heating and cooling costs along the way! It is an economical choice that reduces heating and cooling needs – saving both money and resources in terms of its environmental footprint.
Polyisocyanurate
Polyisocyanurate insulation, commonly referred to as PIR foam plastic insulation, offers outstanding thermal protection while offering other advantages. Like polyurethane foam, PIR is produced through reacting di- or polyisocyanate with polyol in order to form thermoset plastics with which PIR insulation can be manufactured.
PIR produces a much stronger bond than polyurethane, making it ideal for panel cores and insulation products requiring high strength. PIR is water repellant and features low vapor transmission rates reducing the need for moisture barriers; plus it works well with most construction adhesives.
PIR can be utilized in both new construction and re-siding projects. It’s perfect for insulate non-insulated basement walls before installing gypsum wallboard, creating more comfortable living conditions and meeting fire resistance requirements set forth by American National Standards Institute/Underwriters Laboratories Inc (ANSI/UL) and Factory Mutual; PIR insulation prevents flame spread while also resisting smolders for increased safety post firestorm.
MEPS
Foam insulation (sometimes referred to as foam board insulation) is one of the most energy-efficient ways to insulate a manufactured home, helping reduce how much heat escapes in winter and keep out in summer – cutting your energy bills in both seasons!
Benefits of rigid foam insulation include its lightweight nature and ease of cutting with either a saw or knife for perfect fitting into any space. Furthermore, fire and water resistance make this type of insulation suitable for pole buildings; however it’s essential to follow any manufacturer instructions regarding installation procedures and safety precautions for maximum results.
Extruded Polystyrene (XEPS), like MEPS, begins as a pellet that is then melted and formed into sheets using heat and pressure. However, unlike MEPS it has more consistent density and better moisture-resistant qualities that make it suitable for roof insulation applications; however it can be more costly.