Any discussion on extruded polystyrene or XPS as it is popularly called, would start with its immense potential for uses as foam insulation solutions for the ever thriving building industry. An unique combination of stable properties of polystyrene, and foam extrusion process results in a product that is beneficial for a large number of construction and engineering applications. Let us now take look at some of the features that make extruded polystyrene foam the perfect choice.

A word of Caution while Using Extruded Polystyrene(XPS) products XPS is combustible in nature. It is advisable to not to expose it to flame or any other ignition sources. XPS insulation should be ideally covered with a thermal barrier. It is better to consult applicable building codes for installation of XPA. Use of XPS foam is not advisable where sustained temperatures can exceed 165º F.

Features of Extruded Polystyrene Foam

• Excellent resistance to moisture
• Excellent resistance to rot and corrosion
• A perfectly controlled compressive strength
• Constant ability to maintain insulating power
• Superior closed-cell structure and lack of any void in extruded polystyrene (XPS) results in excellent resistance to moisture penetration

Applications of Extruded Polystyrene
Extruded polystyrene profiles are mainly used as foams for insulation in residential or commercial buildings. In fact the primary consumer of XPS is the building industry. For convenience the building industry is broadly categorized into two sections Residential and Commercial.

Residential Buildings
One research into the insulation of residential premises has estimated that around 44% of the total utility bills are paid for heating and cooling of home. In fact, it is proved that by adequate insulation of home heating and cooling needs can come down by about 30%. So, to carry out those insulation-related savings, extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) is the solution. It is the R-value (thermal resistance) that specifies insulation levels. The long-term R-value of extruded polystyrene items can be counted among the best. R Value measures the ability of the insulation to resist the heat that is traveling through it. More the R-value, higher the insulating value. The types of XPS or extruded polystyrene products that can be used in residential premises includes the following XPS insulation board, insulating sheathing and fanfold siding underlayments. The products comes with the following benefits.

Features	Benefits
Rigid XPS Foam	Level, flat surface for new siding
R-value	Saves money and energy
Light Weight	XPS foam sheets are very easy to handle
Resistance to moisture	Doesn't absorb water thus reducing moisture problems
Air resistance	Reduced air infiltration via walls thus saving energy and money
No toxicity	No impact on People's health
Flexibility	Easily molded or shaped

Some of the areas in a residence where XPS profiles are used includes foundation, wall, roof, attic and sealing.

Ceilings
Extruded polystyrene (XPS) rigid foam are applied for enhancing the performance of insulating system for any framed ceiling assembly. For all kinds of framed ceiling assemblies XPS is attached beneath the ceiling joists or bottom chord of the truss. It is particularly useful when used in ceilings that are vaulted or cathedral. The working of XPS foam can be seen in the following image.


Commercial Buildings
Extruded Polystyrene foams find a wide range of use in Commercial buildings. Following are the applications.

Roofs
Extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) insulation are increasingly used in Direct-to-Steel Roof Deck Applications. They can also be referred to as direct-to-deck systems. It gives the advantage of long term “R” or insulation value meaning considerable savings in energy.

Buyers' Corner When selecting the XPS material as an informed buyer you need to ask the following questions. Roof top durability Would the insulation be durable on the rooftop? Would it be in a position to withstand real-world harsh conditions like moisture intrusion, foot traffic, freezing and thawing? Are they dimensionally stable? Would it be prone to facer delamination? Comprehending “R-value” Claims Insulation value claims are based on which type of “R Value” Are they based on a “conditioned” or "initial" R-value—or the more significant “aged R-value”? Is there any promise that R-value would remain stable over time? What environmental and real-world-use factors has an effect on this value?

Water Proofing
XPS or extruded polystyrene insulation products are used for application over membrane. This enhances performance of both vertical or horizontal applications. XPS waterproofing insulation products are designed in a manner to:

• To better the thermal performance (insulation)
• Blocks condensation on the interior surfaces (i.e. moisture protection) and enhancing the drainage (waterproofing protection)