EPS foam insulation, or expanded polystyrene insulation, is a popular choice for insulation in buildings, homes, and other structures. It is a lightweight, cost-effective, and durable material with excellent thermal insulation properties. However, people may have some burning questions about this kind of insulation. In this article, we will answer three of these questions.
Is It Environmentally Friendly?
One of the major concerns people have with EPS foam insulation is its environmental impact. The material is derived from petroleum, which is a non-renewable resource. Additionally, it is not biodegradable, meaning it can take hundreds of years to break down.
However, there are some environmental benefits to using it:
- First, it is a highly energy-efficient material. It has a low thermal conductivity, which means that it can reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This can positively impact the environment by reducing the required energy to heat and cool a building.
- Second, it can be recycled by grinding it into small pieces and then melting it to produce new products. This process can reduce the amount that ends up in landfills.
- Finally, it is a long-lasting material. It can last for several decades without needing to be replaced, which means that it can lessen the amount of waste that is generated over the lifetime of a building.
Is It Safe to Use?
Another concern that people may have with EPS foam insulation is its safety. There have been some reports that it can release toxic chemicals when burned or exposed to high temperatures. But remember, it is not designed to be burned or exposed to high temperatures.
This foam insulation is a highly fire-resistant material. It comprises tiny closed cells filled with air, so it does not conduct heat well. This can help to slow down the spread of fire in a building.
Additionally, it is treated with flame-retardant chemicals during the manufacturing process. These chemicals help to reduce the flammability of the material further. While there is a possibility that EPS foam insulation could release toxic chemicals if it is burned, this is not a common occurrence in normal use.
In terms of health concerns, the material is generally considered to be safe. It is non-toxic and does not contain any harmful chemicals. However, wearing protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, is important when handling EPS foam insulation to avoid skin irritation and respiratory problems.
How Is It Compared to Other Types of Insulation?
There are certain factors to consider when comparing insulation materials, including thermal performance, cost, and durability:
- In terms of thermal performance, EPS insulation is a highly effective material. It has a low thermal conductivity, which means that it can reduce energy consumption and lower heating and cooling costs. It also has a high R-value, which is a measure of its thermal resistance.
- This is generally less expensive than other types of insulation, such as spray foam insulation or cellulose insulation. However, the cost of EPS foam insulation can vary depending on the material’s thickness, the area’s size, and other factors.
- Finally, in terms of durability, it is a long-lasting material that can last for several decades without needing to be replaced. It is resistant to moisture and mold, which can help to prevent damage to the structure of a building.
Overall, EPS foam insulation is a highly effective, cost-efficient, and durable insulation material that can provide excellent thermal insulation properties. While it may not be completely environmentally friendly, it does have some environmental benefits that make it a viable option for insulation in buildings and homes. It is generally considered safe and compares favorably to other types of insulation in terms of thermal performance, cost, and durability.
Place Your Insulation Project in Our Hands
For over five decades, Sterling Manufacturing has provided Polyurethane, Polyethylene, and Polyurethane foam to meet the unique requirements of our customers across different industries. Our commitment to quality, pricing, and service has made us a trusted supplier in various markets, including furniture and bedding, military, oil and gas, engineering and construction, electronics, medical and pharmaceutical, and automotive. Contact us today for more info on EPS foam insulation!
