Insulation XPS: description and specifications

It is possible to create a comfortable and, most importantly, healthy atmosphere in the house only on condition that the appropriate humidity and air temperature are maintained in it. Condensation, dampness, mold, fungus, cold “bridges” - all this can be avoided by using XPS polystyrene foam insulation for internal and external thermal insulation.

Everything important to know about Styrofoam

XPS insulation is extruded polystyrene foam. Quite a new invention in the field of thermal insulation technologies. However, despite this, XPS has already managed to earn great popularity, both among professional builders and DIYers. How is this justified? Let's figure it out.

How is expanded polystyrene

In the photo - equipment for the production of extruded polystyrene foam

Modern equipment makes it possible to produce insulating polystyrene foam with a uniform structure, consisting of small, completely closed cells (each with a size of 0.1-0.2 mm). At the first stage, granular polystyrene of general purpose is poured into the extruder and a foaming agent is injected, which subsequently endows the insulation with basic properties.

Note! As a blowing agent, as a rule, mixtures of light freons or carbon dioxide are used. They belong to the group of non-flammable, non-toxic and ozone-friendly substances.

After filling, all components are mixed and melted, resulting in a homogeneous mass. Then, under pressure and pulling rollers, the molten mass is squeezed out of the extruder through a die, which gives the expanded polystyrene to a specific shape. At the next stage, the residues of the foaming agent are replaced with air in the cells of the material, after which it is cut and placed in thermal packs.

For information! XPS expanded polystyrene is available in slabs, mats, cylinders or segments in various thicknesses and colors.

Characteristics of expanded polystyrene

The positive qualities of XPS insulation make it perhaps the best option among the entire range of insulation materials on the market:

• Extruded polystyrene foam is characterized by minimal hygroscopicity;
• Low heat and steam conductivity;
• Does not absorb moisture;
• Resistant to fire;
• Due to its structure, XPS has an unusually high compressive strength and biological stability (i.e. insects and rodents are not in it);
• It is an environmentally friendly and safe material;
• It should be noted the simplicity and ease of installation - all work on thermal insulation can be done by hand, without helpers;
• Expanded polystyrene is not the cheapest insulation, but its price is quite adequate. Of course, it is slightly higher than, for example, mineral wool or ordinary foam, but the costs will pay off doubly. We will talk about this a little later.

Reliable thermal insulation of residential, municipal and industrial buildings plays a major role in reducing heating costs. And, as you have already noticed, extruded polystyrene foam is quite capable of providing effective insulation - with its help you can get rid of heat loss for a long time and save a good budget.

Note! With expanded polystyrene XPS, you can insulate a loggia, walls, floors, foundations, roofs, communications, garages, and many other structures.

Thermal insulation of the balcony with XPS plates

Answers to important questions

1. Why is XPS foam more expensive than conventional thermal insulation materials?

Of course, a cubic meter of XPS costs a little more than the same mineral wool or foam, but in the case of expanded polystyrene, a much smaller thickness of the material will be required, plus you will not have to purchase additional hydro and vapor barrier films.

Based on the foregoing, the total cost of insulation with expanded polystyrene is lower compared to insulation with the help of other materials. And the XPS will last much longer without causing problems during operation.

You also need to take into account the fact that extruded polystyrene foam does not absorb moisture, which means that over time its thermal insulation properties will not decrease, mold and mildew will not appear in it.

1. Is it possible to insulate wooden structures with polystyrene foam?

Yes, you can. True, this will require a vapor barrier on the inside of the room. The thing is that wood has a much higher vapor permeability than expanded polystyrene. It turns out that the layer of insulation will not allow steam to come out, and the wooden wall will begin to damp and rot.

Thermal insulation of a wooden house outside with XPS plates

In order to avoid this, a vapor barrier made of foil-clad polyethylene with a thickness of 200 microns should be carried out from the inside of the room. All joints of the vapor barrier material are glued with metallized tape. After that, a frame is assembled for the construction of a decorative wall made of plasterboard, wood, panels and other materials.

Outside, polystyrene foam insulation is attached to the facade using screws with a pressure disc. On top of the thermal insulation there is a decorative finish (for example, lining or siding).

1. What is the XPS insulation attached to?

Here's a quick guide to help you choose the right mounting method for your application:

• First of all, it must be said that cement, acrylic and polyurethane glue are suitable for expanded polystyrene. With their help, you can glue the insulation anywhere (to walls, facade, foundation, loggia, etc.).
• If the surface to be insulated is not too flat, you can additionally strengthen the XPS with disc-type dowels.
• For insulation of a flat surface, fastening without adhesive solutions, only for one dowel, is permissible.

Foundation insulated with expanded polystyrene

• When insulating the foundation or soil of the slab, polystyrene foam is simply sprinkled with earth. And above the ground, it is fixed with dowels (5 pieces per one plate).
• If there is a layer of bitumen-polymer waterproofing on the foundation, then you should not use glue for installing the insulation. It is better to melt the waterproofing layer at 5 points and press the expanded polystyrene plates tightly to it.
• When insulating attic floors, floors, or inverted roofs, the XPS can be simply installed without mechanical fastening.

The main advantages of the material

• high level of water resistancedue to the formation of many tiny closed cells after the extrusion process;
• resistance to temperature extremes;
• durability and frost resistance - the material throughout the entire period of its operation (at least 55 years) retains its heat-shielding properties unchanged;
• density extruded polystyrene foam is significantly higher than conventional granular - 15-200 kg / cubic meter.;
• significant compressive strength - 18,000 kg / 1 sq. m. That is why the material is effectively used when creating foundations, that is, in loaded structures;
• profitability - minimal costs for maintaining a comfortable indoor climate;
• low coefficient of thermal conductivity of extruded polystyrene foam, that is reliable thermal protection;
• environmental friendliness and biostabilitydue to its production using modern environmentally friendly technologies - does not contain harmful chemicals and does not use freon, which destroys the ozone layer of the atmosphere. Cellular structure - closed;
• safety and ease of use, since there is no need to use any protective devices. Indeed, when sawing, the material does not crumble or dust;
• low weight and affordability - significant savings in labor and money during the construction of a building.

Heat-insulating facade cladding panels will not only emphasize the selective taste of the owner, but also protect the facade from aggressive influences.

Foamed polyurethane has low thermal conductivity, high strength and moisture resistance, due to which it is widely used in almost all industrial and construction areas. More details

Output

Thus, it turns out that expanded polystyrene is a versatile material with unique qualities. After all, it meets absolutely all the requirements for insulation.

In the video presented in this article, you will find additional information on this topic. In addition, our construction portal has step-by-step instructions for installing polystyrene foam insulators.

The modern market offers customers a wide range of different types of heaters. The material is used not only in regions with harsh winters and capricious weather conditions. It is a practical tool for creating comfortable temperature conditions in various types of premises: residential buildings, government agencies, warehouses and much more.

Extruded polystyrene foam, which is abbreviated as XPS, is very popular. Let's talk about the characteristics and use of the material in more detail.

General characteristics and use

Insulation is used for cladding:

• balconies and loggias;
• basements;
• facades;
• foundations;
• expressways;
• blind area;
• runways.

The material is used for cladding horizontal and vertical surfaces: walls, floor, ceiling.

Renovation specialists point out that XPS boards are among the most common insulation materials. A wide range of applications and technical features have played an important role in the popularity of the products.

Due to the high demand in the market, you can often find products from unscrupulous manufacturers who disrupt the manufacturing process. As a result, customers run the risk of buying a low-quality product. Any inaccuracies in production cause a significant reduction in the service life of the insulation and its characteristics.

You will learn more about how to use extruded polystyrene foam in a residential environment.

Using extruded insulation

Low water absorption determined the field of application of the extrusion heat insulator. It is indispensable for warming the foundation, basement and basement floors. This is the only material that is not afraid of moisture and mechanical soil pressure. It not only insulates the foundation and basement, but also protects against external damage.

For work, plates with a corrugated surface are selected in order to improve adhesion with the adhesive composition. Their thickness is 50-150 mm, the dimensions depend on the manufacturer, the standard dimensions are 600 × 1200 and 600 × 2400 mm. EPPS is installed on a waterproofing layer and does not require external protection, the foundation is simply covered with sand and soil. The insulation on the plinth must be covered with plaster on a reinforcing mesh, this will protect it from UV radiation.

Extruded polystyrene foam is the optimal material for floor insulation. It is laid under the screed without fear of damage due to moisture or high stress. This is a good basis for installing a floor heating system.

Thermal insulation of building walls using extrusion material is performed from the outside and inside. On the facade, the insulation is fixed with special glue and umbrella dowels. The insulating layer is protected by plaster and decorative finishes.With internal insulation, the material is glued to the wall and protected with a thick layer of plaster (up to 3 cm) or a frame with plasterboard sheathing.

This technology provides minimal vapor permeability and reduces the risk of fire. Thin slabs (2-3 cm) effectively retain heat and do not take away useful space from the room. The material is also popular for balconies and loggias, where temperature drops and high humidity are observed. EPPS is resistant to difficult operating conditions and hides extra centimeters of the area.

Extruded polystyrene foam is widely used in the installation of multi-layer inversion flat roofing. With this technology, thermal insulation is positioned above the waterproofing and protects it from damage. The outer layer is made of gravel or cement screed.

In addition to civil and private construction, insulation is used:

• when erecting the foundation of roads and railways;
• for pipeline insulation;
• as a material for packaging for food and medical preparations;
• for thermal insulation of refrigeration units and isothermal vans;
• when arranging an airport runway.

Dimensions (edit)

XPS insulation comes in a variety of sizes. The most common sizes: 50x585x1185, 30x585x1185, 20x585x1185, 100x585x1185, 1200x600x50 mm. Choose the appropriate option depending on the size of the structure. If necessary, the canvases can be trimmed without problems.

Grades and sizes of sheets of extruded polystyrene foam

The brands of extruded polystyrene foam are represented by a very wide list, but the most famous, popular and demanded are the following:

• Europlex - the main area of ​​use is construction. Have smooth or embossed surface, differ in some technical characteristics;
• Styrex - in addition to civil and industrial construction, they are used to create sandwich panels, to insulate railway and road tracks (prevent soil swelling), during the construction of sports facilities, airfield runways and much more. It all depends on their type (M35G1, M35G4, M45G4) and flammability group (G-1 - G-4);
• Penoplex - extruded polystyrene foam with excellent technical characteristics. Material resistant to various fungi and microorganisms... It has proven itself perfectly when applied in the temperature range from + 80 to -50 degrees. Depending on the type (Type 31, 31C; 35, 35C), they are used in construction and in the creation of underground utilities and reservoirs, as well as as a heater for water supply or sewer local networks of private housing construction. A distinctive feature is a variety of edges (straight, selected, tongue-and-groove), which simplifies the fitting and installation of the slabs. Moreover, without the formation of thermal bridges at their joints;
• URSA XPSpossessing the most low thermal conductivity and high environmental friendliness. In addition to insulation, it serves as an excellent steam, hydro and sound insulation. Life time Extruded Ursa Expanded Polystyrene XPS more than 50 years old, which is due to the inertness of the material in relation to water, high mechanical resistance, environmental friendliness and resistance to the effects of microorganisms and fungi. All these properties remain unchanged even with direct contact of the slabs with groundwater, soil and vegetation;
• Technoplex - durable and resistant to putrefactive processes thermal insulation material. It is used in industrial and civil construction for insulation of walls, roofs, foundations, as well as in the production of sandwich panels;
• Primaplex... One of the most competitive and demanded thermal insulation materials, thanks to the excellent combination of affordable prices and high quality products. It is a light blue slab - lightweight, durable and very easy to work with. Excellent resists any kind of moistureand - drip or vapor and has increased frost resistance. The main application is the construction of residential and industrial buildings.

Due to its moisture-resistant characteristics, the deep penetrating acrylic primer impregnates the surface well, evens and strengthens it, which reduces the consumption of the top coat.

A wide range of colors and original patterns of PVC panels will make your bathroom interior sophisticated and individual. Read more

The polyurethane ceiling cornice will give the ceiling finish a complete appearance and emphasize the functionality of the space. More details here

Sizes of sheets of extruded polystyrene foam are standard:

• length - 1200-2400 mm;
• thickness - from 25 to 100 mm;
• width - 500-600 mm.

Extruded polystyrene foam at all stages of production is subject to strict control and meets sanitary, environmental and fire safety requirements. This is confirmed by the package of necessary documents accompanying each batch of material.

Structure

Extruded polystyrene foam, made according to all the rules, must have a uniform structure. Be sure to evaluate this when purchasing a finishing material. There should be no voids, grooves, seals and other defects on the canvas. Flaws indicate poor product quality.

The optimal mesh size ranges from 0.05 to 0.08 mm. This difference is invisible to the naked eye. Low-grade XPS insulation has larger mesh sizes from 1 to 2 mm. The microporous structure is essential for the effectiveness of the material. It guarantees minimal water absorption and high efficiency.

Material features

Extruded polystyrene foam was created in the United States in the early 40s of the XX century. It is a synthetic thermal insulation with unique properties, which were achieved through the use of special technologies in the production process.

Modern manufacturers have mastered the production of materials of various colors and shapes: in the form of cylinders, rolls, plates, segments. The cost of the insulation depends on its dimensions, density and manufacturer.

Production

XPS is manufactured by extrusion. Polystyrene granules under the influence of high temperatures and pressure are mixed with a foaming agent in a special apparatus - an extruder. The material is then extruded through a die using pull rolls and pressure to help shape the material into the desired shape.

Foaming of the mixture ends when it comes into contact with air. The next stages of manufacturing are the cooling of the insulation and its stabilization. The production process is completed by cutting the thermal insulator into pieces of a specified size and packing it using thermal machines.

For comparison: in the production of conventional polystyrene (foam), the granules of the material are steamed with water vapor to a significant increase in size, until the mold intended for the insulator is completely filled.

As blowing agents, carbon dioxide, mixtures of light CFCs or CFC-free systems based on CO2 can be used. It is the use of substances purified from freons that made it possible to bring the production of material to a qualitatively new level, endowing it with environmental friendliness and purity. The heat insulator coming out of the extruder has a uniform structure with closed pores and microcells with dimensions ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 mm.

Technical specifications

XPS has the following unique properties:

• vapor permeability coefficient - 0.004 mg / (m • h • Pa);
• the level of thermal conductivity - from 0.026 to 0.032 W / (m • K);
• moisture absorption in 24 hours - 0.3%;
• specific gravity - 25-45 kg / m3.

Weight and density

There is an opinion that reliable and durable thermal insulation should have a high density, which is denoted as weight per m³. Modern experts think this is wrong. Most manufacturers use low density extruded polystyrene foam, while maintaining the quality of the material. This is due to the cost of XPS's main raw material, polystyrene, which is over 70%.

In order to save raw materials (stabilizers, foaming agents, colorants, etc.), manufacturers deliberately make the boards denser in order to create the illusion of quality.

Outdated equipment does not make it possible to produce durable XPS insulation, the density of which is less than 32-33 kg / m³. This indicator is not able to increase the thermal insulation properties and does not improve the performance in any way. On the contrary, unnecessary pressure is created on the structure.

If the material was made from carefully selected raw materials on innovative equipment, then even with a low weight, it will have a high density and excellent thermal conductivity. To achieve this result, it is necessary to observe the production technology.

Styrex or Penoplex?

Styrex is extrusive polystyrene foam, like penoplex. In essence, the applicability of Styrex is justified where the applicability of Penoplex is, that is, there are no decisive differences. Preference can be given to one material, only if it is convenient to cut a given dimension of boards, to reduce waste and in the case of increased strength requirements, since styrex has better bending strength.

Physical properties of Styrex:

• density - 0.35-0.38 kg / m3;
• thermal conductivity - 0.027 W / m * K;
• moisture absorption, no more - 0.2%;
• compressive strength - 0.25MPa;
• flexural strength – 0.4-0.7;
• vapor permeability - 0.019-0.020mg / hour * m * Pa.

At large deltas of external and internal temperatures, a slightly lower thermal conductivity of styrex makes this material more profitable, however, with an average difference of 0.003 W / m * K, this will be hardly noticeable. The production of heaters under the Styrex trademark is located in Ukraine.

The form

By evaluating the shape, you can also say a lot about the quality and efficiency of the material. The most practical XPS boards have an L-shaped edge. Thanks to it, installation is faster and easier. Each individual sheet is overlapped, eliminating the possibility of cold bridges.

When using plates with standard flat ends, foaming will be necessary. This is an additional repair process that requires not only time, but also financial investments.

Thermal conductivity

The main characteristic of the material is thermal conductivity. To verify this indicator, it is recommended to demand from the seller the corresponding document. Comparing the certificates for the goods, you can choose the highest quality and most reliable insulation. It is almost impossible to assess this characteristic visually.

Experts identify the optimal value of thermal conductivity, which is about 0.030 W / m-K. This indicator can vary up or down depending on the type of finish, quality, composition and other aspects. Each manufacturer adheres to certain criteria.

Technoplex or penoplex, which is better and what are the differences?

The presented types of insulation are a material obtained from polystyrene. The production technology of these two types of products is the same. It is based on polystyrene foaming and subsequent extrusion. The result is a material that in its volume consists of isolated cells filled with air. Their size is very small and can fluctuate around 0.1mm.
Both heaters have approximately the same volume of static air in the cells, which indicates the approximate values ​​of thermal conductivity.The extrusive method of production of technoplex and polystyrene foam allows obtaining higher strength characteristics than that of expanded polystyrene obtained by the non-pressing method.

Technoplex physical indicators:

• density - about 35 kg / m3;
• thermal conductivity - 0.029-.0.030 W / m * K;
• water absorption by volume, no more – 0.2%;
• compressive strength (10%) - 0.24-0.25MPa;
• flexural strength - 0.35 MPa;
• vapor permeability - 0.018-0.020 mg / m * hour * Pa.

Physical indicators of penoplex:

• density - 29-35 kg / m3;
• thermal conductivity - 0.03 W / m * K;
• water absorption no more - 0.4%;
• compressive strength (10%) - 0.25MPa;
• bending strength - 0.35-0.4MPa;
• vapor permeability coefficient - 0.02 mg / m * hour * Pa.

Analysis of indicators shows approximately the same properties of materials. The choice of a technoplex can be justified if there is a risk of water ingress, since its water absorption is slightly lower. At the same time, foam manufacturers indicate an increased value of flexural strength. When used in these heaters under certain conditions, their difference will be leveled by tolerances for these parameters, due to the permissible discrepancies in the number of cells with air in a given volume.

The difference in materials in terms of the size of the products produced can be beneficial if the cutting of slabs from some manufacturer is beneficial in terms of the minimum volume of waste, based on the geometric features of a particular building.

Water absorption

The next important quality to pay attention to is water absorption. You can visually evaluate this characteristic only if you have a small sample of insulation with you. It will not be possible to evaluate it by eye. You can conduct an experiment at home.

Put a piece of material in a container of water and leave for a day. For clarity, add a little dye or ink to the liquid. Then estimate how much water is absorbed into the insulation, and how much has become in the vessel.

Some experts use the prick method when evaluating a product. Using a conventional syringe, a little liquid is injected into the web. The smaller the spot sizes, the better and more practical the XPS finish.

How is STIREKS extruded polystyrene foam produced?

This heat-insulating material is manufactured in accordance with the quality standards established at the enterprises of the USA, Germany, which were the first to produce it. Raw material - polystyrene granules, is placed in a pre-frother - a container with a bottom in the form of a sieve through which hot steam is passed. Foaming of granules takes 5 minutes at temperatures over 100 degrees Celsius. Under the influence of high temperature, the base of the granules - pentane, is activated.

Activation of pentane leads to "swelling" of the granules, an increase in the volume of the initial amount of raw materials by 30-50 times. The resulting mass is pushed out by pressure into an intermediate container. They carefully monitor that the raw materials do not stay in containers for longer than the prescribed time. Constant monitoring ensures that the polystyrene granules turn into a reliable thermal insulation material.

After foaming, the mass is dried in a special hopper. They use devices consisting of a metal base, an airtight "bag". In such devices, a large number of foamed granules are compactly placed, which is dried in no more than a day. Polystyrene slabs are formed using a block mold. The block-mold is heated with steam, polystyrene granules are poured into it, which are foamed again. The resulting slabs are cooled in the workshop, cut and packed.

Strength

XPS quality insulation boasts excellent durability, even at mid-weight. This characteristic is important during the installation process. Durable slabs are easy and convenient to cut and attach to the structure. Such material does not pose any problems during transportation and storage.High strength allows you to keep the shape of the plates for a long time, without fear that the material will turn into dust.

If during the installation process you notice the formation of cracks, chips, deformation, and also hear a crack, it means that you have purchased a low-quality product. Be as careful as possible during the installation process so as not to damage the slabs.

Environmental friendliness and safety

Premium extruded polystyrene foam is an environmentally friendly finish that is completely safe for health and the environment. On the domestic market, there is only one type of XPS material on sale, which has been awarded the Leaf of Life certificate. The document officially confirms the environmental friendliness of the products. The material is safe not only for people, but also for animals and the environment.

The use of XPS insulation fully complies with the norms of SNiP 21-01-97. This regulation refers to the section "Fire safety of buildings and structures". SNiPs - approved rules and regulations in the construction industry.

Specifications

The main parameters of the insulation of this category: thermal conductivity coefficient (0.029-0.034 W / (m * C)), moisture absorption index no more than 0.4%, density (within 38-45 kg / m3), insignificant vapor permeability (0.013 Mg / (m * h * Pa)).

Insulation specifications

Technical characteristics also include the flammability class, and polystyrene foam plates represent the highest hazard classes: G3, G4. In addition, the dimensions of the material determine a number of parameters (absorption of impact noise, strength, thermal insulation properties).

Dimensions (edit)

The standard slab width is represented by the only option - 600 mm However, other sizes can vary significantly. For example, the length of the product is mainly found in two values: 1200 mm and 2400 mm.

Types of structure and material edges

Polystyrene foam thickness: 30-100 mm, with the exception of values ​​70 and 90 mm. Regardless of what dimensions of the plate are chosen, it will be easy to work with the material due to its low weight.

However, thicker polystyrene foam products are characterized by increased resistance to heat outflow from the room. This means that with the help of such thermal insulation, it is possible to provide increased comfort on objects.

Flammability class

Expanded polystyrene products burn well, therefore they are ranked among the highest flammability classes: G3, G4. Also, this insulation is not prone to self-extinguishing. If a manufacturer claims that its products have similar specifications, it is best to contact those who offer reliable information about the material.

In theory, it is not recommended to use plates for thermal insulation of an object with increased fire safety requirements. However, there is SNiP 21-01-97, according to which the use of such materials is allowed. But it is better to use products of the G3 flammability class.

On the fire safety of expanded polystyrene: using European standards that differ from domestic ones. There, combustibility is determined by three evaluative characteristics: biological, chemical and complex.

In addition, in order to reduce the hazard level of the insulation at one of the production stages, fire retardants are added - substances with the help of which the technical characteristics of the material change somewhat and the plates go into the category of less hazardous (flammability class G1, G2).

Testimonials

Let's summarize the article with opinions on XPS insulation. The Internet has collected many responses about the product, both laudatory and negative. It is safe to say that most of the reviews are positive. Buyers note qualities such as environmental friendliness, simple installation, excellent performance and much more.

Customers who were unhappy with the purchase said that more effective and practical insulation can be found on the domestic market.

Thermal insulation at any temperature will not hurt. If it is carried out correctly, then in the winter the rooms will become noticeably warmer, and in the summer heat - cooler. Wall insulation will help create a comfortable microclimate both in the apartment and in the work room. Manufacturers have tried and the types of insulation today shine with a variety.

Having come to the market or to the construction supermarket, one can only be surprised at the variety of produced heaters. They lie rolled up and bundled, poured into containers in the form of granules, powders and perlite sand, looking out of the packaging with cotton wool. And they are also made in the form of a variety of cylinders, bricks, blocks and slabs. What should you choose? In principle, it is not the form that is most important, but the content. More on that later.

If you understand the characteristics of insulation materials, then you can easily choose exactly the one you need. The main property of a heat insulator is its thermal conductivity. It shows how much heat can pass through a given material. There are two types of thermal insulation:

• Reflective insulation reduces heat consumption by reducing infrared radiation.
• Thermal insulation of the preventive type (it is used in most cases) involves the use of insulation with a low thermal conductivity. In this capacity, one of three types of materials can be used: inorganic, organic or mixed.

Preventive type thermal insulation

Organic heat insulators

Organic heaters are widely represented in the modern construction market. For their manufacture, raw materials of natural origin (waste from agricultural and woodworking industries) are used. Also, some types of plastic and cement are part of organic heat insulators.

The resulting material has a high resistance to fire, does not get wet, does not react to biologically active substances. It is used where the surface does not heat up above 150 degrees. An organic heat insulator is often used as the inner layer of a sandwich construction. These are, for example, triple panels or plastered facades. Next, consider what types of organic insulation are.

1. Arbolite insulation.

This fairly new building material is made from small sawdust, shavings, chopped straw or reeds. Cement and chemical additives are added to the base. These are calcium chloride, sulphate alumina and soluble glass. At the last stage of production, the products are treated with a mineralizer.

The characteristics of wood concrete have the following:

• Density - from 500 to 700 kilograms per cubic meter.
• The coefficient of thermal conductivity is from 0.08 to 0.12 watts per meter per Kelvin.
• Compressive strength - from 0.5 to 3.5 megapascals.
• Flexural strength - from 0.4 to 1 megapascals.

2. Polyvinyl chloride foam insulation.

PPVC consists of polyvinyl chloride resins, which after porization acquire a special foamy structure. Since this material can be both hard and soft, it is a versatile heat insulator. There are various types of insulation materials for walls, roofs, facades, floors and entrance doors made of PVC. The density (average) of this material is 0.1 kilograms per cubic meter.

3. Chipboard insulation.

Chipboards are basically fine chips. It is nine-tenths of the total volume of the material. The rest is synthetic resins, antiseptic agent, antiprene, water repellent.

The characteristics of the chipboard have the following:

• Density - from 500 to 1000 kilograms per cubic meter.
• Tensile strength - from 0.2 to 0.5 megapascals.
• Flexural strength - from 10 to 25 megapascals.
• Humidity - 5 to 12 percent.
• The absorption of water by the material is from 5 to 30 percent.

4. Insulation from DVIP.

The composition of the wood fiber insulation board is similar to particle board. The basis is either wood waste, or trimmings of straw and corn stalks. It may even be old paper. Synthetic resins are used to bond the base. The additives are antiseptics, fire retardants and water repellents.

The characteristics of the DVIP are as follows:

• Density - no more than 250 kilograms per cubic meter.
• Flexural strength - no more than 12 megapascals.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is up to 0.07 watts per meter per Kelvin.

Wood fiber insulation.

5. Polyurethane foam insulation.

Polyurethane foam is based on polyester, to which water, emulsifiers and diisocyanate are added. Under the influence of a catalyst, all these components enter into a chemical reaction, forming a new substance. It has a good level of noise absorption, is chemically passive, and is not afraid of moisture. In addition, PU foam is an excellent heat insulator. Since it is applied by spraying, it is possible to process walls and ceilings of complex configuration. In this case, cold bridges do not appear.

Characteristics of polyurethane foam:

• Density - from 40 to 80 kilograms per cubic meter. Upon reaching a density of 50 kilograms per cubic meter, PUF becomes moisture resistant.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is from 0.019 to 0.028 watts per meter per Kelvin. This value is the best of all modern thermal insulation materials.

Application of polyurethane foam insulation to the surface of the walls.

6. Mipora (penoizol).

If you beat the urea-formaldehyde resin, more precisely, its water emulsion, you get a mipora. To prevent the material from being brittle, glycerin is added to the raw material. Sulfonic acids derived from petroleum are added to form foam. And the organic acid serves as the catalyst that promotes the solidification of the mass. Mipora is sold both in the form of crumbs and in blocks. If it is supplied in liquid form, then it is poured into special cavities during construction. There, at room temperature, it becomes hard.

Mipora characteristics:

• Density - no more than 20 kilograms per cubic meter. Compared to cork, this figure is about 10 times less.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is about 0.03 watts per meter per Kelvin.
• The ignition temperature is over 500 degrees. If the temperature is below this value, then this material does not burn, but only undergoes charring.
• The disadvantages of the Mipora are its vulnerability to the effects of aggressive chemicals, as well as strong absorption of water.

• See material >> Technical characteristics of penoizol, its properties and disadvantages as a heater

7. Expanded polystyrene.

Expanded polystyrene, aka PPS, aka polystyrene, is 98 percent air. The remaining 2 percent is polystyrene, which is obtained from petroleum. Even in the composition of expanded polystyrene there is a small amount of modifiers. In particular, they can be flame retardants.

Properties of PPP:

• The thermal conductivity coefficient is from 0.037 to 0.042 watts per meter per Kelvin.
• Waterproofing qualities are high.
• Corrosion resistance - high.
• Resistance to bioagents and microflora is high.
• Flammability is low. The material is capable of decaying on its own. If polystyrene foam nevertheless ignites, then it emits heat energy 7 times less than wood.

Expanded polystyrene plates.

Plates of simple foam, can also be attributed to this type of insulation.

8. Foamed polyethylene insulation.

If a foaming agent (one of the types of hydrocarbons) is added to polyethylene during the manufacturing process, then we get a material with numerous small pores inside. It has good vapor barrier properties and excellent protection against external noise.

Foamed polyethylene properties:

• Density - from 25 to 50 kilograms per cubic meter.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is from 0.044 to 0.051 watts per meter per Kelvin.
• Application temperature range - from minus 40 to plus 100 degrees.
• Moisture absorption is low.
• Chemical and biological passivity is high.

Foamed polyethylene in rolls is often produced in a special shape for pipe insulation.

9. Fibrolite.

Taking as a basis narrow and thin wood shavings, which are also called wood wool, adding cement or a magnesian component for binding, we get fibrolite. It comes in the form of slabs. This material is not afraid of chemical and biological aggressive influences. Good protection against noise, and can also be used in rooms where it is very humid. These are, for example, swimming pools.

Fiberboard characteristics:

• Density - from 300 to 500 kilograms per cubic meter.
• The thermal conductivity coefficient is from 0.08 to 0.1 watts per meter per Kelvin.
• Fire resistance - high.

10. Sotoplast insulation.

As a rule, this material consists of hexagonal cells that resemble honeycombs - hence the name. However, there are types of honeycomb, where the shape of the cells is different from the hexagon. The filler is a special fabric or paper based on carbon, cellulose, organic or glass fibers coated with a film. These fibers are bonded with thermosetting resins - phenolic or epoxy. The outer sides of honeycomb panels are thin sheets of laminated plastic.

More about the material

When deciding what is the best thermal insulation material, you should take a closer look at the option called extruded polystyrene foam. In addition to the arrangement of residential buildings, this type of insulation is used even during the construction of roads and railways, since it is these plates that allow you to avoid the negative effects of heaving of the soil during freezing.

Expanded polystyrene has a lot of advantages: it is the cheapest, can be easily cut with an ordinary knife, almost does not absorb moisture and keeps heat well.

Extruded polystyrene foam is produced using the extrusion method: under the influence of high pressure and temperature, polystyrene granules are mixed with a special foaming compound, and polystyrene is obtained after extrusion through an extruder. As a result, the slabs are characterized by special properties due to the dense fine-pored structure (diameter within 0.1-0.2 mm).

Overview of the properties of expanded polystyrene

Extruded polystyrene foam is distinguished by a number of features that make this kind of insulation a universal material:

• It is not hygroscopic, which means that it is not inclined to absorb moisture, which is due to the structure: expanded polystyrene plates consist of many closed cells, liquid simply does not penetrate into them;
• Provides a barrier for the outflow of heat from the room, this feature is explained by the low coefficient of thermal conductivity;
• Increased strength: this type of insulation is a slab of material compacted under the influence of high pressure and temperature;
• Extruded polystyrene foam is not subject to decay, since the insulation in this version does not absorb moisture, which means that there are no conditions for the reproduction of harmful microorganisms;
• Light weight.

If we compare polystyrene and expanded polystyrene plates, for a number of factors it is better to choose the second option.

Reflective insulation

Heaters, called reflex, or reflective, work on the principle of slowing down the movement of heat. After all, every building material is capable of absorbing this heat and then emitting it. As you know, heat loss occurs mainly due to the exit of infrared rays from the building. They easily penetrate even materials with low thermal conductivity.

But there are other substances - their surface is capable of reflecting from 97 to 99 percent of the heat reaching it.These are, for example, silver, gold and polished aluminum without impurities. By taking one of these materials and building a thermal barrier with a polyethylene film, you can get an excellent thermal insulator. Moreover, it will simultaneously serve as a vapor barrier. Therefore, it is ideal for bath or sauna insulation.

Reflective insulation today is polished aluminum (one or two layers) plus polyethylene foam (one layer). This material is thin, but gives tangible results. So, with a thickness of such a heater from 1 to 2.5 centimeters, the effect will be the same as when using a fibrous heat insulator from 10 to 27 centimeters thick. As an example, let us name Armofol, Ekofol, Porileks, Penofol.

A type of reflective insulation.

So, we have listed all types of insulation and their characteristics. When choosing one of them, pay attention to the possibility of its complex application. After all, it's not bad if this material not only insulates your house, but also protects against noise and gusts of wind.

Scope and application features of Styrex insulation.

Insulation of foundations. The first stage of construction consists in choosing the type of foundation and its laying. The service life of the future building and the degree of comfort of living in it depend on how well the thermal insulation of the fundamental structure is made. Thermal insulation boards are laid on the waterproofing layer. The material is fixed to the walls of the basement with mechanical fasteners, that is, with dowels. The bottom row located in the ground does not require fastening. The main task of the heat-insulating layer is to protect the foundation from temperature extremes, high humidity, and soil heaving.

Although the basement is not a living space, its thermal insulation is also important. This is due to the fact that in underground structures there are engineering communications that require protection from freezing. Insulation of the basement walls will improve the temperature regime of the basement floor.

Wall insulation. In order to reduce heat losses of a residential building, the supporting structures are subject to thermal insulation. Styrex slabs, being lightweight, practically do not load walls and foundations. Moreover, extruded polystyrene foam simultaneously performs two functions - heat-insulating and sound-insulating. Warming can be done in three different ways:

• sheathing of internal walls. This option is relevant in the case when external insulation cannot be performed for any reason. Plates are laid on pre-aligned walls. The material is fixed with adhesives; dowels are used as additional additional fastening. A vapor barrier made of polyethylene film is placed on top of the heat-insulating layer;
• thermal insulation of the building facade. Performed, as a rule, during the construction phase. External thermal insulation provides reliable protection of the structure from the effects of negative phenomena (precipitation, wind, mechanical damage, frost). The extruded polystyrene foam is fixed on glue and additionally reinforced with dowels. Plaster is applied on top of the insulating layer;
• installation of insulation boards in the cavity of the enclosing structures. The advantage of this option is the ability to preserve the appearance of the facade. Let's apply this method in the case of newly erected structures. Despite its technical characteristics, the insulation must be insulated from the wall with a vapor barrier material, which can be a plastic film.

Insulation of roofs. The advantage of using extruded polystyrene foam boards for thermal insulation of roof structures is obvious - the material is lightweight. This is especially important in the case of arranging lightweight roofs. The thermal insulation material is laid on a vapor barrier layer with fixation with roof dowels.Slabs from