Foam and polystyrene foam differences

Selecting the appropriate materials for insulation can have a significant impact on both comfort and energy efficiency in your house. Although foam and polystyrene foam are two frequently used insulation materials, what distinguishes them specifically? Let’s examine the distinctions between these two well-liked choices.

Foam insulation, also called spray foam, is a multipurpose substance that is well-known for its capacity to expand and efficiently close spaces. It is made up of a blend of chemicals that, when applied, react and expand to form a seamless barrier that prevents air infiltration. This kind of insulation offers superior thermal resistance and is frequently used in crawl spaces, walls, and attics.

Conversely, expanded polystyrene beads are used to make the lightweight material polystyrene foam insulation, sometimes referred to as rigid foam. Expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS) are the two primary forms available. Because EPS is more affordable and frequently used in above-grade insulation projects, XPS is more suitable for below-grade applications due to its density and increased moisture resistance.

The way that foam and polystyrene foam insulation are installed is one of their main differences. Usually applied as a liquid that expands to fill the desired space, foam insulation creates an airtight and seamless seal. Polystyrene foam boards, on the other hand, must be manually cut to size and put, requiring precise fitting and joint sealing to stop air leaks.

Additionally, foam and polystyrene foam insulation differ in their R-values, which indicate a material’s thermal resistance. When maximum insulation is needed but space is at a premium, foam insulation typically performs better than polystyrene foam because of its higher R-value per inch.

Weighing the benefits and drawbacks of foam and polystyrene foam is crucial when deciding which insulation material is best for your house. The best option for your particular needs depends on a number of factors, including cost, installation technique, moisture resistance, and desired R-value. Knowing the distinctions between these two materials will help you make an educated choice that will increase your home’s comfort and energy efficiency.

Foam	Polystyrene Foam
Lightweight material often used for packaging and insulation.	Type of foam made from polystyrene beads, commonly used for insulation in buildings.

What is better – Styrofoam or Styrofoam: tips from professionals

October 25, 2016

Upon considering the question of which material is superior, Styrofoam or Penoplex, you should consider factors such as production technology and material properties in addition to their similar names. Some people question why producers of nearly identical materials should "fog" people’s minds.

Which material to choose

Understanding the differences is essential to answering these questions, after which conclusions must be made. These materials are actually nearly identical, not just comparable. Primarily, the first root "peno-" denotes the structure’s porosity. Penoplex and foam plastic are lightweight, easy to install, nearly impervious to moisture, resistant to decay, and able to withstand the effects of adverse environmental conditions.

Apart from the benefits, it’s important to draw attention to the drawbacks, which include low solvent tolerance, particularly with acetone. Other chemicals that are chemically aggressive should also be included in this. Practice demonstrates that Styrofoam and foamlex are not very durable and require external protection. The first distinction is that Penoplex is colored canary, whereas foam plastic is white. This is not an exhaustive list of distinctions, though; more will be covered below.

Comparison of the main properties of insulators

Customers first determine which material retains heat more effectively: penoplex or foam plastic. This is the topic of the article, but it’s crucial to decide which properties to focus on before making a decision. At first look, the penoplex might appear to be superior due to its nearly two-fold smaller working insulation layer and more impressive resistance class indicators. Its ability to absorb moisture is four times weaker—more accurately, it is completely incapable of doing so.

A big advantage is also a weak combustibility, especially if you compare it with this parameter, inherent in the foam plastic. If you are concerned about the question of what is better to insulate the balcony – foam or foamlex, it is important to pay attention also to the density of the. In the latter material it is 2.5 times higher than that of traditional polystyrene foam. As practice shows, it is possible to walk on foam plastic, and it will only partially squeeze through, but penoplex is not afraid of prolonged and serious loads. That is why foamplex is used for floor insulation, but foam plastic prefer not to use in such works.

Experts alert customers to the fact that while Foamlex’s indicators are generally superior, there is not much of a difference between them on the primary articles. Since its strength and water absorption coefficient are irrelevant if you need to insulate the walls, many consumers who have learned about it are unwilling to pay extra for it. This is true for the working layer’s thickness, but the decision will be influenced by price.

The facade surface may be covered with the first option if you are still unsure about whether penoplex foam is preferable, but only if the exterior finish is at issue. This is applicable to floor insulation in circumstances where using premium materials is desired and funds are available. For all other situations, regular foam plastic will work just fine. However, since it won’t have the greatest impact on the building’s fire safety, it is best not to use it to finish the facade.

Composition comparison

The materials covered in this article are widely used in construction, primarily for thermal insulation, which makes sound isolation possible. Similar technologies that involve foaming polystyrene are used in their manufacturing. 98% air and 2% polystyrene make up the insulating material known as Styrofoam. Since the board only requires 2% of the raw material, this has an impact on affordability. Extrusion polystyrene foam is used to create Penoplex, a synthetic material that serves as thermal insulation. The process of creating Penoplex follows the guidelines for foaming raw materials.

Comparison in terms of thermal insulation qualities

If you are thinking about the question of what is better – Styrofoam or Penoplex, then first of all it is necessary to pay attention to the quality of thermal conductivity. These parameters of the described materials are different. Thermal conductivity of foam plastic varies within the limits of 0,035-0,05 W/m*C, while at penoplex this parameter is equal to 0,028 W/m*C. This allows us to conclude that Styrofoam is slightly better at retaining heat. If you take a 25 mm foam board, it will be identical in thermal insulation qualities to a 20 mm foamlex board. The first variant loses only slightly to the second, and on large areas this can translate into good space saving.

Comparison on water absorption

When consumers are debating whether foamlex or Styrofoam is superior, they focus on how well the product absorbs water. It is important to understand that foamlex dislikes water and only absorbs up to 0.4% of it monthly. Foam, however, is not far behind; in 30 days, it will absorb 4% of the water. The foam complex also proved to be somewhat superior to the competition in this regard. Additionally, it is important to consider that foam plastic lacks vapor permeability, a property that distinguishes penoplex. This signal is still present in the latter.

Comparison in terms of durability

Quite often experts are asked the question of what is better – Styrofoam or Styrofoam. Trying to determine this, it is necessary to pay attention to the strength as well. If polystyrene foam is clamped and pressure is applied to it, it becomes clear that Styrofoam is able to undergo a pressure of 0.5 MPa, while this parameter is equal to 0.2 MPa for Styrofoam. Here there is a significant difference, so it is better to cover the floor with the first analog, which is especially relevant for garages, runways and skating rinks. However, it is necessary to take into account also the density of foam plastic, which is lower and equal to the limit from 15 to 35 kg/m 3. In the second material this parameter varies from 28 to 45 kg/m 3. This indicates that the specific gravity is also less.

Comparison of materials by operating temperature

Quite often in construction today is used foamplex or foam plastic. What is better, you can decide by familiarizing yourself with the information presented in the article. For example, you must also take into account the temperature at which normal operation is possible. In this respect, the difference is almost imperceptible, because both materials feel great at low temperatures, but if the thermometer column does not fall below -50 ° C. After reaching this mark, the material begins to lose its properties, while the upper maximum reaches +70 ° C, which is true for Styrofoam, and 75 ° C – for Penoplex. Do not leave these insulation materials under the influence of direct sunlight. If you put a piece of Styrofoam in the sun, the result will not be long in coming.

Cost comparison

Today, styrofoam or Styrofoam is very affordable. What is better, you can decide by familiarizing yourself with the positive and negative sides of these materials. The most painful issue for consumers today remains the cost. Surely you have never seen that the material with the best quality characteristics are cheaper compared to the analog, which loses on many factors. Due to the fact that foamplex is ahead in many indicators, it costs more expensive than foam plastic, and the price can be higher by one and a half times. That is why most consumers today choose foam plastic, which is explained by its lower cost. It must be recognized that this choice in some types of work can be justified, because the materials for thermal insulation of a number of structures will not differ almost in properties.

Selection of thermal insulation by flammability

Practice demonstrates that while both of the materials mentioned burn nicely, the foam burns more slowly because it is classified as a G3 material. G4 is the classification that foamed polystyrene falls under. The degree of combustibility is represented by numbers, ranging from weak to strong, from 1 to 4. Presently, producers endeavor to address these issues by incorporating flame retardants into materials during the manufacturing phase. However, this does not imply that there will be no chance of thermal insulation catching fire. It will burn, albeit a little worse, and release harmful compounds from the flame retardants.

Selection of material by area of use

Quite often modern builders ask themselves the question of what is better – foamlex or foam for insulation. To solve this problem, it is necessary to determine on which part of the building the material will be installed. For example, for the facade, it is best to prefer foam plastic, as it is cheaper and able to transmit air. This choice will reduce the cost of vapor barrier, because the wall will not lose the ability to breathe. For internal insulation of the house it is best not to use such materials, although they themselves are environmentally friendly, but they can be impregnated with special solutions. The latter emit toxic substances in the process of use.

If you are thinking about what is better to insulate the house – foam/foam/foamplex – then the latter option is better to choose for loggias or balconies. It has less thermal conductivity and does not reduce the interior space as much. But if you have a flat roof and the need to insulate it, both options are suitable. The ceiling, too, can be insulated with any material of your choice. However, this decision is justified if you do not plan to walk in the attic afterwards. Otherwise, it is best to choose foamlex. For floor insulation, both materials are suitable, but in this case the rough surface is better to perform on lags.

Conclusion

It is advised to think about foam or foamlex before heading to the store if you are among the customers who have wondered which material is better for insulating the walls. You will be able to decide which material to prioritize by analyzing its primary qualitative traits. For instance, mineral wool, foam, or foamlex provide superior insulation for specific surfaces and constructions. Everything will be based on the intended outcome and the budget.

In understanding the differences between foam and polystyrene foam for house insulation, it"s essential to grasp their distinct compositions and applications. While both materials offer insulation benefits, they vary significantly in structure and functionality. Foam insulation generally refers to a broader category of materials, including polyurethane foam, which expands to fill cavities and provide airtight insulation. On the other hand, polystyrene foam, commonly known as Styrofoam, is a specific type of foam made from polystyrene beads and typically used in rigid board form for insulation purposes. Understanding these variances is crucial for homeowners seeking the most suitable insulation solution for their specific needs, whether it be for walls, roofs, or other areas requiring thermal protection in the home.

What is better foam plastic or penoplex? Comparative analysis, errors and misconceptions

Polystyrene foam comes in two most popular and sought-after varieties: Styrofoam and Penoplex.

Determining whether foam or penoplex is superior in a given scenario can be accomplished with ease through comparative analysis and an understanding of the primary properties of each material.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the materials.

What are the differences between foam plastic and foamlex?

Since these materials are nearly interchangeable, their characteristics include not absorbing moisture, being lightweight, resistant to rotting, and easy to use.

The final indicators of overall strength, moisture absorption, and cost are determined by processing the same similar composition under different conditions.

Without a doubt, penoplex has a higher bending strength than foam plastic, allowing it to break into separate pieces under similar mechanical loads. Under these circumstances, the foamlex may develop surface dents or cracks but no significant crushing into individual granules occurs. Penoplex is unique in that it almost completely lacks the ability to absorb air or moisture, but foam plastic also exhibits a relatively high rate of water absorption.

Both materials are rightfully classified as combustible finishing insulators. However, applying specialized flame retardants can greatly lessen these signs. It’s also critical to remember that, in contrast to conventional foam, foamlex melts but does not burn in a fire.

Both common varieties of polystyrene foam, which generally differ greatly in price but do not significantly differ in installation, can be used to insulate building facades.

It is well known that repairing the warm floor requires a significant amount of knowledge and several essential steps. We recommend reading our helpful content on this subject.

Visit the link for comprehensive instructions on how to cover your stove with tiles during the winter.

See this page for a DIY garage heater.

Comparative analysis

It is vital to consider the differences in the manufacturing processes of these two materials in order to compare them.

Although polystyrene serves as the basis for production in both scenarios, there are some notable distinctions in the production technology.

Let’s examine the composition and structure of each of these types:

• The structure of the foam is made up of gas-filled granules and micropores, which is caused by active foaming of the base. Density indicators directly depend on the size of the voids that unite the compressed granules. The size of such voids is inversely proportional to the level of density of the resulting material, and also reflects on the vapor-permeable and moisture-absorbing characteristic;
• Foam plex production is based on the extrusion method, in which closed pores with the size of 0.2mm or less are formed under conditions of increased pressure and high-temperature regime. The result is a material that has a very uniform structure.

Because of the variations in their fundamental properties, the primary distinction between these materials is their respective fields of application:

The average cost of the finished material is inevitably influenced by production technology and fundamental attributes.

Penoplex is more expensive than foam plastic by about 1.5 times per cubic meter because it is in a higher price range.

Popular mistakes and misconceptions

It is impossible to accurately evaluate the properties of expanded polystyrene and competently ascertain the extent of its application due to a multitude of misconceptions and widespread errors in the assessment process:

• immunity of both insulators to combustion – a common myth. Undoubtedly, heavily foamed insulation burns much better, which is due to the presence of a large amount of air in the structure, but the so-called self-extinguishing polystyrene foams, well impregnated with fire retardant, are also produced. Such self-extinguishing material practically does not burn, but strongly smokes, emitting toxic materials;
• it is believed that both materials have a unique, incomparable, very low thermal conductivity. As practice shows, penoplex has a better, but not at all unique thermal conductivity, for example, compared to quite popular and "light" mineral wool;
• the statement that they are virtually eternal materials, is considered almost true. However, it should be remembered that the molecular structure of any polystyrene foam has a strong destructive effect of many factors represented by heat, air, sunlight and radiation;
• polystyrene foam practically does not absorb water and perfectly tolerates about fifty cycles of freezing and defrosting, but even very high quality foam is less breathable, which should be taken into account when choosing the sphere of application;
• Both types of insulation are often used for the purpose of soundproofing, which is absolutely wrong. Such materials are completely unable to retain noise, so sound penetrates unhindered.

Components of the insulation on walls

Experience has shown that high-quality polystyrene and products containing it are safe as long as they are produced in compliance with technological specifications and don’t include any hazardous materials.

Make sure the material in these insulators is free of toxic flame retardants before buying one. Toxic flame retardants are harmful to human health and should not be used in residential areas.

Properties of expanded polystyrene and penoplex

Although foam and polystyrene foam are made of different materials, they share many characteristics, such as being lightweight, having good thermal insulation, and being simple to assemble.

On the other hand, there are some variations in terms of average operating time, air permeability, strength level, and fire safety.

An illustration of how well to insulate a home’s walls

These materials have sufficient strength indicators, but penoplex is more resilient and has a solid mass.

Although the typical lifespan of these materials is highly variable, repeated use over time demonstrates that polystyrene foams degrade far more quickly and consequently significantly lessen their thermal properties.

It’s also critical to keep in mind that foamplexes do not release steam because the material’s structure lacks pores.

The warm floor can be connected to the heating system using a variety of methods. and in each of them, a great deal of information regarding the installation and functioning of the entire structure is required. After all, any errors now could have a very negative impact on the home’s future occupants.

See this article for information on how to insulate a private home’s floor in various ways.

Where each of these materials is used

Because it is so reasonably priced, Styrofoam is frequently a better material.

Penoplex, however, is the most superior and dependable insulator despite being relatively costly.

When selecting between materials like expanded polystyrene and penoplex for external house facade insulation, penoplex consistently comes out on the short end of the stick.

In certain situations, using ponoplast that is lower in quality is totally appropriate. Because of its strong moisture absorption and increased air permeability, this material is most frequently used in ventilated facade insulation. Foamlex cannot be used to install an external form of insulation above the basement due to insufficient adhesion indicators.

It is crucial to keep in mind that, when combined with a reinforcing mesh, both insulating materials aid in the production of plastering. In this instance, there is a fantastic chance to save a significant amount of money on the application of robust and high-quality exterior finishing.

Video on the topic

Styrofoam or polystyrene foam, their differences and which of them is better

For most people, wall insulation has become essential; it protects the house from the cold in the winter and the heat in the summer. The type of insulation used will determine its quality; the more effective the material, the better it will retain heat in the space.

There is currently a wide range of materials available for insulating a house’s walls from the outside; more and more of these materials are making their annual appearance on the construction market. Experts recommend using foam and polystyrene foam as well as other materials to insulate the home’s walls. Because these two names seem so similar at first glance, it is difficult for average consumers to understand what the differences are between them and which is superior.

Styrofoam, its characteristics and advantages

This insulating material is made by foaming polystyrene, which contains 98% air in its final form. It’s a traditional kind of insulation. Dry steam is used to treat polystyrene granules, causing them to stick together during the process of thermal expansion and producing micropores in the final product. People have long used it to insulate their homes against heat loss through the use of materials for the walls, floors, and roofs. In addition to providing shelter from the winter cold, this kind of protection also acts as a barrier for the building’s walls.

Because of the primary features of Styrofoam. A lot of people think that it works best as an insulator. Among its primary characteristics are the following attributes.

1. It consists of 98% of air.
2. Its thermal conductivity is from 0.038 to 0.050 W/m K, it is much lower than that of wood or brick. For example, wood is 3 times more thermally conductive than Styrofoam and 17 times more thermally conductive than brick.
3. Just 2-3 cm of foam plastic can make a complete soundproofing of the building.
4. Do not absorb moisture more than 3% of its weight and its thermal insulation properties remain unchanged.
5. Low weight facilitates work with the material, it is easy to install, no special tools are required for cutting.
6. Non-toxic, odorless, does not dust during work, so protective equipment is not needed in the process of work.
7. Foam plastic is resistant to cement, gypsum, alkalis, water emulsion paints, but is afraid of acetone and benzene.
8. In contact with open fire it ignites, but quickly extinguishes.
9. The material is environmentally friendly, safe in operation and utilization, it is also widely used in the food industry and as packaging for many products, including for children.

Another drawback of Styrofoam is its extreme fragility. that makes working with it and transporting the insulator more difficult in inclement weather.

Even though polyurethane foam has been around for a while and there are a lot of new and contemporary materials available now, it still has value. Because of its affordability and widespread appeal, Styrofoam can be used for a variety of construction projects.

Styrofoam (penoplex)

The process of extrusion creates a viscous mass by first melting the polymer, which is how extruded polystyrene foam is made. Granules transition from a solid to a viscous-tractile state. producing a solitary liquid-phase material possessing a robust and solid microstructure.

Extruded polystyrene foam is far stronger than foam plastic and resembles a mass of closed cells with gas inside. Water or gas cannot enter polystyrene foam cells because they are impermeable and lack micropores, unlike foam plastic. Polystyrene foam cells resemble a solid mass, with only the cut sides of the side surfaces allowing air or water to pass through. The material can’t generally absorb vapor, moisture, or a lot of other things from the outside.

Polystyrene foam is commonly referred to as Polystrene Foamlex. Since this name is applied to the domestic brand of extruded polystyrene foam, they are actually the same heat-insulating substance. The Polyspen brand is widely used in a variety of industries, including agriculture, runway construction, the laying of gas and oil pipelines, and the creation of heat-insulating layers for industrial and civil building structures.

Since penoplex was produced in large quantities, it has been used extensively in construction as a highly durable heat-insulating material. It is only ever utilized for exterior construction; it is not appropriate for interior insulation since high temperatures can cause polystyrene foam to release styrene. The material’s primary qualities are:

1. Increased compressive and bending strength.
2. High density of Penoplex.
3. Does not crumble unlike foam plastic.
4. Thermal conductivity 0.028 W/m K.
5. Absorbs no more than 3% of its weight, this does not affect its thermal insulation, strength and structure.
6. Possesses excellent sound insulation.
7. Penoplex is not afraid of insects and rodents.
8. Does not rot and does not burn well.

Anyone hoping to enhance the insulation and heating in their home must be aware of the distinctions between polystyrene and foam. Although both materials have insulating qualities, they differ in ways that may affect how well they work in different situations.

Foam insulation can be sprayed or injected into walls, ceilings, and floors. Usually composed of polyurethane or polyisocyanurate, foam insulation offers exceptional thermal resistance. It is a popular option for insulating complexly shaped areas or existing structures because of its versatility and capacity to fill gaps and irregular spaces.

Conversely, there are distinct advantages to polystyrene foam, which comes in two varieties: expanded (EPS) and extruded (XPS). Because of its affordability and low weight, EPS foam is a good choice for insulating foundations, walls, and roofs. Because of its closed-cell structure, XPS foam has a higher compressive strength and resistance to moisture, which makes it perfect for below-grade applications or locations that are frequently exposed to moisture.

Considerations including cost, the need for insulation, moisture resistance, and ease of installation should be made when choosing between polystyrene and foam. Although foam insulation can provide better versatility and thermal performance, polystyrene foam might be a better fit for some applications or situations where money is tight.

To sum up, there are benefits and uses for both foam and polystyrene foam in home insulation. Homeowners can effectively heat and insulate their homes, thereby increasing comfort and energy efficiency, by knowing their differences and taking into account factors like cost, insulation requirements, and environmental impact.

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