Foam Insulation Board -- Versatile Insulation For Your Whole House
One of the great things about foam insulation board is its usability in just about any environment. In fact foam insulation board can be used -- quite literally -- from the very top of your home (in the roof and attic area) down to the bottom (for insulating your basement). Foam insulation board provides excellent insulating as well as soundproofing protection -- and can also add to the structural strength and integrity of your walls (when it is used there). Foam Insulation Board -- Materials Available One of the most common foam insulation board materials used is MEPS -- molded expanded polystyrene foam board. Among those who are knowledgeable, this MEPS foam insulation board is usually called "beadboard." The insulating value (R-value) of foam insulation board is around 3.8-4.4 and is usually available in different sizes. Another type of foam insulation board material is XPES -- extruded expanded polystyrene. It is generally more expensive than MEPS, but has an advantage in that it has an R-value of 5. Because it is denser and stronger, this type of foam insulating board is a better choice when installed on roofs or within wall panels. Foam Insulation Board, Direct Sunlight And Moisture All types of foam insulation board should always be protected from direct sunlight -- as the ultraviolet rays of the sun can damage this type of material. As well, in order to protect against problems with trap moisture, foam insulation board is normally installed very tightly next to each other, and gaps between the foam insulation board panels should be sealed with special-purpose caulking or other sealing agent to prevent the intrusion of unwanted water vapor. Necessary Fire Protection When Installing Foam Insulation Board If foam insulation board begins to burn, because it is manufactured from various chemical substances, it burns with a very dense smoke that is filled with dangerous toxic gases. You should check with your local municipal building code officer, but in most cases foam insulation board will also require a fire barrier cover -- for example gypsum board. Again, you should check with your local municipality and insurance company for what may be required in your location. If you are trying to install insulation in an area that is extremely cramped or restricted -- where you would not normally be able to unroll typical fiberglass insulation, for example -- then foam insulation board makes an excellent alternative. In the cramped environments of attics and other areas, foam insulation board is much easier to handle, position, cut, and lay down then other types. In addition, rigid foam insulation board can add a great deal of additional strength to your walls and ceilings where it has been installed. And if you need to soundproof an area as well, for example an attic used as a teenager's bedroom -- or for insulating a family room or den downstairs where there may be a lot of talking, TV playing, etc. -- then foam insulating board will help to trap sound, keeping the rest of your home peaceful and quiet. |
