Expanded polystyrene (also known as EPS) is not the first thing that comes to mind when searching for home improvement materials or increasing your home’s energy efficiency.
And that is no surprise!
Manufactured materials are not typically seen as an environmentally friendly choice.
Many of our customers are pleased to learn about the positive environmental impacts that choosing EPS can have.
Thanks to modern manufacturing techniques and improved resource management, expanded polystyrene is becoming an increasingly popular choice for eco-conscious construction. Here are the top reasons why.
Energy Efficiency
Did you know that expanded polystyrene is an excellent thermal insulator? This material is a top performer for reducing your home’s year-round energy consumption!
Not only does it help minimise your home’s heat loss throughout the chilly winter months, but you will also find that your home is noticeably cooler throughout Queensland’s hot summer period.
As expanded polystyrene reduces the energy required to heat and cool your home, you will enjoy lower energy bills and the knowledge that you’re lowering your overall carbon emissions.
Durability and Longevity
The durability of expandable polystyrene means it can stand up to the test of time without breaking down. This is especially true of our products, which are manufactured to the highest standards.
EPS is moisture-resistant and, unlike timber, does not degrade when exposed to water. This also helps it maintain its long-term insulative. This resistance reduces the need for replacements due to water damage, thereby extending its useful life.
We all want to play our part in reducing waste. The longevity of our products reduces the need for replacing materials throughout your home’s lifetime, which helps minimise construction waste.
It is Also Recyclable!
Advocating for proper disposal and recycling practices is crucial to maximising the environmental benefits of EPS and minimising potential drawbacks associated with its use.
This is why we’re big advocates for sustainable practices and help educate our purchasers about appropriate ways to treat EPS when no longer needed.
Customers are often surprised to learn that expanded polystyrene can be recycled into new EPS products and other plastic materials.
Recycling goes a long way towards reducing the amount of EPS waste sent to landfill. It also conserves resources that would otherwise be used to produce brand-new expanded polystyrene. Win-win!
Lightweight and Efficient – A Winning Combo
Pick up a piece of expandable polystyrene and straight away you’ll notice that not only is it light, it’s also strong!
The lack of weight comes down to how expanded polystyrene is made. While EPS is produced from solid polystyrene beads, it’s still made up of around 95-98% air. This means that while the product itself feels rigid and strong, it’s also incredibly light. The advantage of its lightweight nature also contributes to lower transportation emissions.
Producing EPS is also very efficient, with fewer raw materials required compared to traditional, heavier manufactured products. This means it generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to alternative materials used for insulation and construction.
EPS can be moulded into various shapes and sizes, making this product incredibly versatile for different construction purposes. Material waste during production is also minimised thanks to it being manufactured in precise dimensions.
Our Recommendations for Using Expandable Polystyrene
Lastly, if you want to use expandable polystyrene in your home, we always recommend consulting with building professionals and making sure that you adhere to your local building regulations.
Proper installation techniques are important for EPS to perform at its best over the long term.
Additionally, understanding environmental implications and ensuring responsible disposal or recycling of EPS waste at your local facility is important for sustainability.
For more tips and high-quality expandable polystyrene mouldings, visit High Profile Architectural Mouldings.
