Lightweight Architectural Panel Buyer's Guide | Worklite Panels

With a name like Kerfkore, you might think that dynamic, flexible curved panels are all we do, but we’re not afraid to show off our prim and proper style, either. Think James Bond ordering a martini in a jazz club. That’s our Worklite Lightweight Panels—our line of architectural panels focused on providing strong decorative appeal, staying lightweight, and straight, neat lines.

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Worklite Panels consist of 3 layers, two surface layers, and a strong yet lightweight core. This composition creates a customizable substrate that can reduce weight by up to 80% compared to particleboard, plywood, or MDF.

The combination of visual appeal and lightweight opens a world of design and fabrication options. Since they’re so easy for fabricators to work with, we recommend Worklite panels for any projects that involve the “three Os”: oversized, overhead, or overweight. Worklite Panels have been utilized in a variety of architectural and interior design projects, from paneling in higher education to the set of a “Fast & Furious” movie.

Here’s what you need to know when deciding which Lightweight Worklite Panel fits your needs.

Worklite Lightweight Panel Options

Our Worklite Panels come in two options, each with its own unique core.

Worklite EPS Foamkore®

The Worklite EPS Foamkore core is made of expanded polystyrene, a lightweight, white foam. Made with recycled materials, it’s a sustainable and low-cost material that is up to 70% lighter than wood panels. It’s known for its low thermal conductivity, resistance to water penetration, and high compressive strength.

Worklite XPS Foamkore®

The Worklite XPS Foamkore’s core material is extruded polystyrene, a type of durable blue foam plastic. Extruded polystyrene is denser than its cousin expanded polystyrene, which makes it more resistant to temperature changes and creates a perfect, solid edge for painting. Available in sizes up to 3″, Worklite XPS Foamkore is ideal for projects that require varying thicknesses.

Worklite Lightweight Panel Face Material Options

Each Worklite Panel can be customized with a range of face materials that all maintain the signature combination of durability and usability, while creating different options depending on your project goals.

Eucalyptus Hardboard

Sourced from Brazil, the Eucalyptus Hardboard is made of 100% recovered and recycled fiber content, making it the most sustainable option of our face materials. It also offers an incredibly smooth surface for painting.

3-Ply Italian Poplar Plywood

3-Ply Italian Poplar Plywood is one of the highest-grade poplar plywood available and is the go-to face material when you need the lightest of our Worklite Panel options. It has nearly zero core voids and its high-quality veneer is perfect for finishing or staining wood grain finishes. The wood is sustainably sourced from forest farms that regrow in ten-year cycles.

Fiberboard

Likely the most popular composite wood for woodworkers, Fiberboard is known for its smooth and consistent face. Our Fiberboard is made in the U.S. and comes readily available in 1/8″ thickness. It can also be used to create a panel with length and width extended past our standard 4′ x 8′ sizes.

Discover the Ultimate Insulation Buyer Guide ! Explore the best insulation options, R-value comparisons, and expert tips to maximize energy efficiency and comfort for your home or building.

What is the best type of insulation for energy efficiency in ?

The best type of insulation for energy efficiency depends on your building’s needs, climate, and budget.

Spray Foam Insulation: Offers the highest R-value (~R-6.0 to R-6.5 per inch), providing exceptional air sealing and moisture resistance. It’s ideal for irregular spaces and maximizing energy savings.

Fiberglass Insulation: Affordable, widely available, and easy to install. With an R-value of ~R-3.0 to R-4.3 per inch, it’s a good option for walls, attics, and floors.

Rigid Foam Boards (Polyiso, XPS): Excellent for energy efficiency, with R-values of ~R-5.0 to R-6.5 per inch. Best for basements, exterior walls, and roofs.

Stone Wool (Rockwool): Fire-resistant and soundproof, with an R-value of ~R-4.0 per inch, making it great for soundproofing and safety.

Pro Tip: Consider your climate zone. In colder regions, higher R-values are essential, while in warmer areas, moderate insulation may suffice.

What is R-value, and why is it important for insulation?

R-value measures an insulation material’s resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the material insulates.

Why It’s Important:

-Helps maintain a consistent indoor temperature, reducing energy bills.

-Prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

-Affects the comfort, energy efficiency, and overall performance of your home or building.

Typical R-values by Material:

Fiberglass: R-3.0 to R-4.3 per inch.
Spray Foam: R-6.0 to R-6.5 per inch.
Cellulose: R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch.
Rigid Foam Boards: R-5.0 to R-6.5 per inch.

The required R-value varies by climate zone. For example, colder areas like Zone 6 (Minnesota) may require R-49 in attics, while warmer areas like Zone 2 (Florida) need only R-30.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website XPS board manufacturing line.

What are the most cost-effective insulation options for ?

If you’re looking to balance performance and affordability, here are the best options:

Fiberglass Insulation: The most budget-friendly choice (~$0.40-$0.70 per square foot) with solid R-value performance. Ideal for walls, attics, and floors.
Cellulose Insulation: Affordable and eco-friendly (~$0.50-$1.00 per square foot). Made from recycled materials, it offers good soundproofing and thermal performance.
Spray Foam Insulation: Though initially expensive (~$1.50-$4.00 per square foot), it pays off in long-term energy savings due to its superior air sealing.
Mineral Wool (Rockwool): Costs slightly more (~$0.80-$1.50 per square foot) but provides excellent fire resistance and soundproofing.

Pro Tip: Consider energy rebates and incentives in your area for added savings on insulation upgrades.

How can Leyton help businesses apply the 45L tax credit and 179D tax deduction to increase cash flow for insulation projects?

Leyton specializes in identifying and securing tax credits and deductions for energy-efficient improvements, such as insulation projects, which can significantly boost cash flow for businesses.

1 – Owens Corning

Best For: Fiberglass insulation (PINK® Fiberglas™)Features: Durable, energy-efficient, wide product range. Why It Stands Out: Trusted brand with excellent thermal and soundproofing capabilities.
Price Range: $0.50–$1.50 per square foot
R-Value: ~R-3.0 to R-4.3 per inch (fiberglass batts)

Features

Owens Corning® Fiberglas™ insulation is a versatile solution designed for both acoustic and thermal control in commercial applications. With products like fiberglass batt insulation and specialized acoustic boards, it ensures energy efficiency, sound reduction, and long-lasting durability. Engineered for easy installation, mold resistance, and reduced dust, it is ideal for diverse applications, including interior partitions, acoustic walls, and ceiling treatments, all backed by Owens Corning’s trusted performance.

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