EPS vs. XPS: More than meets the eye
More than meets the eye
EPS foam allows the intrusion of water over time.1 The closed-cell structure Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation is the design choice for buildings that withstand the elements and the test of time.
Moisture
XPS structure absorbs significantly less water than EPS products
R-Value
XPS maintains R-value better than EPS when water is present1
Durability
Absorbed water can cause damage in freeze/thaw conditions
1 Billy Connor, April 2019. “Comparison of Polystyrene Expanded and Extruded Foam Insulation in Roadway and Airport Embankments”. Alaska University Transportation Center, University of Alaska Fairbanks, (INE/AUTC 19.08).https://aidc.uaf.edu/projects/2019/comparison-of-polystyrene-expanded-and-extruded-foam-insulation-in-roadway-and-airport-embankments/
A unique closed-cell structure gives Styrofoam™ Brand XPS its exceptional moisture resistance and enables it to retain a high, long-term R-value of R-5 per inch – even after exposure to standing water, wet soil and other damp conditions
Additional performance attributes of Styrofoam™ Brand XPS include:
- Meets ASTM C578 Types (refer to specific product information for details)
- Compliant with IRC, IBC and IECC as listed in ICC Evaluated Service Reports
- Provides a weather-resistant barrier to enhance the building’s resistance to air and moisture penetration
- Meets building code requirements of ASTM E84 Flame Spread Index of 25 or less and a Smoke Developed Rating of 450 or less
- Will not corrode, rot or support mold growth
- Available in wide range of compressive strengths from 15 to 100 psi, and minimum flexural strength of 40 psi
- Is easy to fabricate into various sizes, thicknesses and edge treatments to meet specific design needs, while ensuring energy efficiency and minimizing on-site cutting and waste
DuPont™ Styrofoam™ Brand XPS products are backed by the expertise of building science leaders dedicated to your success and warranties from a name you trust, including limited thermal warranties from 15 to 50 years including the Wall² system warranties and other system warranties.
Any questions?
The Styrofoam™ Brand was the original XPS, creating the product segment. Rooted in 80+ years of technical innovation, we’re excited to deliver a low-GWP solution. Let’s start a conversation about your next project.