The cold season is here again and it brings back to the top of the “to do” list many considerations related to home insulation and the perpetual search for better insulation solutions.
When compared to mineral wool insulation, expanded polystyrene (EPS) is more efficient by offering a superior performance and being able to maintain it over the years.
Mineral wool stands as one of the most commonly used insulation materials, mostly in residential buildings. However, despite this widespread use, mineral wool (also referred as rock or slag wool) has significant disadvantages.
Mineral wool has a poor resistance to compression and tends to compact over time, loosing some of its insulating properties and energy-efficiency as every year passes. Wet or damp, mineral wool has a reduced insulation performance.
On the job site itself, mineral wool installation includes a number of “irritants”. In addition to the traditional itching it brings, it is prone to cause skin, eyes, and respiratory irritations.
Comparatively, EPS insulating sheets allow a clean installation without dust or irritant fibres. Moreover, EPS handling requires no protecting gloves, glasses or masks.
In terms of physical characteristics, for the same thickness, EPS provides superior insulation factor by 10 to 20% when compared to mineral wool. EPS is also unaffected by humidity (95% vapour barrier), has structural strength and stable dimensions; therefore it will maintain its insulating properties over the years.
Regarding environmental considerations, EPS is composed of air at 98%, therefore it requires only a very small contribution of natural resources. Its life cycle analysis shows it is an excellent material for any durable and energy efficient construction project. EPS manufacturing processes uses only steam; no chemicals, CFCs or HCFCs.
Finally, containing phenolic resins, mineral wool can hardly be recycled. On the other side, EPS is 100% recyclable and even often contains some recycled content.