Why EPS is the Material of Choice

Why Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is the Material of Choice for Achieving Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient Housing

The U-value of expanded polystyrene makes it one of the most energy and cost-effective insulation materials available during the full life of a building. With nearly 40 years’ experience in manufacturing and supplying EPS in the form of sheet, block or bespoke mouldings for a variety of different markets, DS Smith Plastics, Foam Products is also a trusted sub-contractor to the UK construction sector. Used extensively within the construction industry, EPS provides excellent thermal insulation properties which benefit a wide variety of applications within construction, helping to improve energy efficiency in residential and commercial builds. EPS can be found in roof, wall and floor insulation, specifically underfloor heating systems (UFH), where these durable lightweight panels offer excellent point-load strength and insulation properties and door cores which insulate while providing sound deadening properties. HVAC is also a popular area for EPS applications in terms of water heater jackets, air conditioning ducting, pipes and drain pans where EPS reduces heat loss and maximises the energy efficiency of a building. The material of choice for many construction projects, expanded polystyrene (EPS) provides a high strength to weight ratio and U-values for outstanding thermal insulation. Using EPS insulation in modern construction methods contributes to a reduction in the energy required to heat or cool a building in any season, lowering fuel consumption and reducing energy bills for consumers for the life of the building. Environmentally friendly, uncontaminated EPS is 100% recyclable at the end of its useful life. During manufacturing no CFCs or HCFCs are used and our moulding technology allows us to dose in a percentage of recycled reground material. EPS that contains recycled material doesn’t lose any of its performance characteristics or its inherent strength and actually saves energy because no pre-expansion is required.