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EPS - 12 Reasons Why It's Popular

Last modified: 22.09.2022
Diagram of an "Existing Brick EPS System" showing the nine layers of external wall insulation: substrate preparation, starter track & clip-on profile, adhesive, EPS insulation, mechanical fixings, basecoat, fibreglass mesh, render primer, and decorative finish.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) comprises expanded beads of polystyrene that incorporate a graphite component, fused together in a pressurised steam-heated mould. The addition of graphite provides a significantly improved thermal insulation material. This has high-performing thermal insulation at the centre of our external wall insulation systems. Due to its availability and relative ease of production, it is extremely popular. Moreover, the benefits are lengthy, and provide an insight into why EPS is so popular.

  1. Cost effective - Costs per board naturally vary depending on the desired thickness, however, they usually tend to be half the price of the Kingspan K5. Presuming the thickness required is 90mm (achieving 0.3W/m2K in a retrofit), at a cost of £8.25 ex VAT per board.
  2. BBA Approved - The EPS system onto brick, as displayed on the featured image, is BBA Approved. As a result of the independent body's testing, you can have peace of mind when using this system, as several factors have been ratified. The certificate can be accessed here, and covers thermal performance, strength & stability, fire rating, risk of condensation, and durability.
  3. Acoustic Insulation - In conjunction with other materials, EPS can serve as a very powerful sound barrier. It possesses different characteristics that are effective when used in wall construction to prevent the transmission of sound. However, when used in isolation, it doesn't possess the mass to absorb sound.
  4. Thermal Performance - The standout benefit for EPS is certainly the thermal performance in relation to cost. With the thermal conductivity at 0.032W/(m2K) and an R-value of 1.97W/(m2K), it outperforms Rockwool.
  5. Easy to cut - As the material is just polystyrene, it is incredibly easy to cut. Ensuring the cuts are straight and level is crucial. We recommend a hot knife for this.
  6. Low GWP Impact - EPS maintains a low level of Global Warming Potential , producing a GWP of 0. This is significantly lower than XPS for example, as the GWP for this type of insulation is 1,430. The blowing agent pentane ensures a lower GWP.
  7. Lightweight - The material is incredibly lightweight, measuring in at 1.13kg per m2, with a coverage of 0.72 m2 per pack.
  8. Simple Install - Due to the lightweight nature, EPS is very simple to install. EPS Adhesive and plastic fixings are the premier option when it comes to installing the EPS system. The plastic fixings are cheaper, providing more savings.
  9. Easy Storage & Transport - The EPS boards are very durable, along with the lightweight nature. As a result, they are easy to store. Transport is also simple as hand loading is an option.
  10. CWI - Cavity Wall Insulation also has its place. EPS can also be used in board or bead form; however, the thermal performance is lower than that of external wall insulation. EWI does not restrict the thickness of insulation you can apply.
  11. Non-breathable - This may not initially seem like a benefit but it is a cost saving one, as the non-breathable membrane allows you to use cheaper thin coat renders.
  12. Wide range of thicknesses - The thicknesses available range from 20mm to 220mm, giving you a lot of flexibility when installing the system.

Expanded Polystyrene is non-toxic, non-irritant and odourless, making it completely safe to handle. The fire rating in our BBA Approved EPS systems have a reaction to fire classification of B-s2, d0. The list really could be endless!

If you have any other questions, give our sales team a call on 02045716484!