4 Advice to Choose a XPS Board

XPS (Extruded Polystyrene) foam board is a versatile building material with a wide range of applications, known for its insulation properties and durability. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a construction professional, this comprehensive guide will provide valuable insights into the features, uses, and benefits of XPS foam boards.

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1. What is XPS Foam Board?

XPS foam board is a rigid insulation board made from polystyrene resin through an extrusion process. It is known for its closed-cell structure, providing excellent thermal insulation. The manufacturing process results in a lightweight, moisture-resistant, and durable material suitable for various construction and insulation applications.

2. Key Features of XPS Foam Board

Understanding the key features of XPS foam board is crucial for its effective use. These features include high thermal resistance (R-value), resistance to moisture absorption, low weight, and dimensional stability. Additionally, XPS foam boards have high compressive strength, making them suitable for load-bearing applications.

3. Common Applications

XPS foam boards find applications in both residential and commercial construction. Common uses include insulation for walls, roofs, and floors, as well as in the creation of model scenery, signage, and craft projects. The material's versatility and ease of cutting make it a favorite among builders and DIY enthusiasts alike.

XPS Foam Boards

4. Installation Tips

Proper installation is crucial for maximizing the benefits of XPS foam board. Ensure a clean and dry surface before applying adhesive for secure attachment. Pay attention to joints and seams to maintain a continuous insulation barrier. Use compatible materials for sealing gaps and edges to enhance the overall insulation performance.

5. Advantages of XPS Foam Board

XPS foam boards offer several advantages, including high thermal efficiency, moisture resistance, and resistance to mold and mildew. Their lightweight nature facilitates easy handling and installation. The material's durability ensures long-term performance, making it a cost-effective choice for various construction projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can XPS foam boards be used for outdoor applications?

A: Yes, XPS foam boards are suitable for outdoor applications. They are resistant to moisture and provide effective insulation for exterior walls, roofs, and foundations.

XPS Foam Boards

Q: Can XPS foam boards be cut to specific sizes?

A: Yes, XPS foam boards can be easily cut to specific sizes using a utility knife or a saw. This flexibility makes them adaptable to various construction needs.

Q: Is XPS foam board environmentally friendly?

A: XPS foam board is not biodegradable but can be recycled. Check with local recycling facilities to ensure proper disposal and recycling of the material.

Armed with knowledge about the features, applications, and advantages of XPS foam boards, you can confidently integrate this versatile material into your construction projects, ensuring energy-efficient and durable results.

Kendall Cold Chain System XPS Foam Board or Extruded Polystyrene Foam Board is the end product of polystyrene resin, raw materials, polymers, and catalyst which are heated and mixed simultaneously. Then extrusion and molding of this mixture are cooled into a rigid foam plastic board. They exhibit remarkable features such as low water absorption, low thermal conductivity, high compressive resistance, and no aging these attributes make it extremely appealing in the market.

Extruded polystyrene is a versatile insulation commonly used in building construction. Find out if it’s right for your next project by exploring its thermal performance and putting it toe-to-toe with comparable options.

What is XPS Insulation?

Extruded Polystyrene (abbreviated XPS) is a common insulation building material used in the construction of homes and commercial buildings. It’s the same material used for foam egg cartons, except that it’s extruded into board form when used as insulation.

XPS foam insulation boards come in a variety of sizes, typically 24” x 96” or 48” x 96” and thicknesses ranging from just under 1” to more than 4” thick in some cases.

XPS is used in construction to insulate walls, foundations, and under concrete slabs.

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There are six types of XPS classified by varying density levels. Here are the six types of XPS, according to the ASTM C578 standard:

6 Types of XPS Insulation

R-Value Explained

R-value is the measure of how well insulation performs. A higher R-value means that the material is a better insulator, that keeps heat from passing through it. So when used on a building’s envelope, a higher R-value will keep heat out of a building during the summer, and inside the building during the colder months.

R-value is cumulative. That means that a thicker material correspondingly increases your R-value. Theoretically, a two-inch thick insulation board will have double the R-value of a one-inch board of the same material. Contractors can also double up the layers of insulation to achieve a higher R-value. Using multiple layers is advantageous because it allows builders to stagger joints in order to reduce thermal bridging and heat loss at board perimeters.

XPS Insulation R-Value

The R-value of XPS rigid insulation sits at R5 per inch. Let’s look at a table that shows xps insulation R-value per inch for Type IV, 25 psi XPS.

XPS Insulation R-Value per Inch

The above comparison of XPS rigid insulation R-values shows a slight difference in performance with different temperatures. XPS actually performs better at 40 degrees Fahrenheit than at 75 degrees. For example, 2-½” XPS insulation has an R12.5 at 75 degrees and jumps up to R13.5 at 40 degrees.

It’s also worth noting that all types of XPS have a similar thermal performance except type XII, which is slightly lower than the other five types.

Comparing XPS Insulation R-Value

The R-value of extruded polystyrene is mediocre when compared XPS to other types of foam board insulation. Here is a head-to-head comparison:

XPS Insulation R-Value Chart Comparison

*Values are for Type I EPS at 75 degrees F.

From the chart above, it’s clear that extruded polystyrene insulation R-values lean toward the higher end of the three options, but remain in the middle between EPS and polyiso.

Polyiso R-Value

Polyiso provides the highest R-value per inch of the three foam board insulation options listed. With R6.0 per inch, you can achieve R15 with just 2-½”, and save half an inch of material if you use XPS (R15 XPS requires 3” thickness). If you’re trying to achieve high thermal performance with a thinner profile, polyiso is a solution to the problem.

Polyiso Benefits

It’s not just the high insulating value per inch that makes polyiso a superior foam insulation choice. There are many benefits to choosing polyiso for your building envelope insulation. Here are some of the reasons to choose polyiso for your next project:

• Better fire resistance than XPS

• Similar or better moisture resistance than XPS

• Tailored facer solutions with polyiso that are not available with XPS

Find the Best Insulation Solution with Rmax

There is no wrong choice for insulation when you’re picking from the right bucket. However, there are good, better, and best solutions. Polyiso is on top as the best performing foam board insulation option on the market for many applications.

Let us help you decide whether it’s right for your next project by reaching out to your local Rmax representative today!

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