FAQ
A:EPS is an abbreviation of Expanded PolyStyrene.
A: EPS is an innovative building material that adds to the design and structural integrity. We all know that EPS is one of the best insulative materials and over the past decade the applications for EPS is continuing to grow!
There has been extensive research and evaluation on EPS for 30+ year lifespan which includes a myriad of construction applications from below-grade to roofing and the EPS industry stands behind the product with real-world test results. Thired party research and testing data from labs including Oakridge National Laboratories, National Research Council of Canada, Florida Solar Energy Center and Structural Research, Inc. also give confidence in EPS to architects and builders alike!
A: The thermal resistance, or R-value, of EPS may be used without any adjustment for aging. Also unlike traditional fiberglass insulation, EPS does not lose any of its R-value if it was to get wet and cannot get compacted over time as fiberglass can, which also contributes to loss in R-value.
A: A study by the EMTL (Energy Materials Testing Lab) concluded that EPS insulation, that is constructed well, does not absorb appreciable moisture even under conditions characteristic of prolonged, cold and damp winters… that’s good news for the Pacific Northwest!!!
A: EPS does not mold since it does not soak up water. The material breathes and is not susceptible to attacks by micro-organisms such as fungi, mold and other bacteria.
A: No. EPS insulation is an inert and organic material that is produced from the by-products of petroleum and natural gas. EPS insulation does not contain CFCs (Chlorofluorocarbons) or HCFCs (Hydro chlorofluorocarbons).
A: Swede Home’s EPS insulation system reduces energy consumption right away. With energy savings comes environmental benefits such as the reduction of fossil fuels burned to create energy. By reducing our energy consumption we reduce combustion by-products that lead to smog and other environmental changes in our climate. One of our homes can eliminate 2 to 3 tons of CO2 emissions to our atmosphere every year compared with a traditional built home using 2x dimensional lumber. Calculate that over the life of a 30-year mortgage. Then calculate how much money you will be saving by not wasting all of that energy!
A: Yes, we recommend it. It’s an added benefit to your system.
A: Well the list is long and like with everything, you should do your homework! But here are a few more characteristics about EPS:
It’s the 100% recyclable, inert, stable, cost effective material that does not produce methane or contaminating leachates that will last a very, very, very, very, very long time and will not break down compared to traditional insulative materials!