Extruded Polystyrene Insulation: Features and Benefits

Climate change has transformed the way industry leaders look at how building materials interact with the environment. As Australia's leading polystyrene supplier, Foamex understands the need for sustainable and eco-friendly building materials which resulting in the innovation of Styroboard™ extruded polystyrene sheets.

Styroboard™ XPS has many benefits that come from the way extruded polystyrene sheets are manufactured. The solid granules of polystyrene resin are placed into an extruder where they are mixed with additives and melted into a viscous liquid. It expands once a blowing agent is injected into the mixture. The mixture is forced through a die under controlled heat and pressure conditions to form its desired shape. The rigid foam plastic is cut and shaped to required dimensions.

The closed cellular structure of XPS accounts for its durability and excellent thermal insulation. The extruded polystyrene sheets are convenient to use for below-grade waterproofing and roof insulation.

A good building practice includes the use of extruded polystyrene insulation in building construction. It offers great flexibility, thermal efficiency and compatibility in all areas of a building envelope. XPS helps avoid thermal loss or inefficiencies in freezer rooms for commercial applications like food packaging and food distribution.

XPS is long-lasting and less likely to get replaced due to water damage. Its panels create a continuous layer of extruded polystyrene insulation on slab applications and thermal protection for a building's walls, which contributes to energy efficiency.

Benefits of Styroboard™ Extruded Polystyrene Insulation

Energy-Efficiency
Heating and cooling systems within residential and commercial structures use a lot of energy. Extruded polystyrene insulation reduces energy consumption and promotes positive energy and cleaner air emission. XPS foams have long-term R-value depending on the foam thickness. They create a full air and moisture barrier that reduces convection currents and air infiltration that contributes to energy loss.

Foamex Styroboard™ XPS meets the requirements of section J - Assessment and Verification of an Alternative Solution relating to energy Efficiency of the Building Code of Australia.

Moisture Resistance
If moisture or water infiltrates the foam's structure, it significantly affects and reduces overall R-value of the building envelope. Styroboard™ XPS' stable closed cellular structure inhibits water infiltration. Correctly installed, the sheets provide a continuous layer of water protection, which is ideal for below-grade application of extruded polystyrene insulation.

High Quality, Australian-Made Fire Retardant XPS
Manufactured locally in Victoria using state-of-the-art production facility, Styroboard™ XPS contains fire retardant additives. Foamex holds high regard for excellent building products, Styroboard™ XPS is compliant with Australian Standards AS 1366.4 (Rigid Cellular Plastic Sheets for Thermal Insulation, Rigid Cellular Polystyrene - Extruded).

High Compressive Strength
The natural physical strength of Styroboard™ XPS makes it an ideal solution for floor insulation. XPS can be used in areas subjected to heavy traffic loads like warehouses, production plants, and car parks. It's also resistant to mould, vermin and ground contaminants.

Foamex Styroboard™ XPS is a highly versatile building material known for its compressive strength, energy efficiency and excellent thermal insulation.

For further information on extruded polystyrene insulation, contact Foamex today.