Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is everywhere around us. It is used in all environments and it occupies various functions. It can also be used as insulation or as roof slopes in the construction industry, as packaging for various sectors, as floating docks, as subfloors and more. In every case, EPS can get in contact with some materials’ enemy: water. It is therefore important understand how it reacts when in contact with this element.
What Happens with Expanded Polystyrene Insulation in Contact with Water?
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is commonly used as insulation in many types of constructions. Indeed, it is found in commercial, industrial, institutional and residential buildings. In case of water damage or flooding, don’t worry! EPS is resistant to water and moisture. This means that it does not absorb them and that its insulating performance is not compromised when in contact with these elements. Insulation boards made of expanded polystyrene can make a home healthier because they will not contribute to mildew formation.
EPS Resistance to Water is Also Useful in the Industrial Industry
Indeed, this property is essential for many products made of expanded polystyrene. Packaging is a good example. It may be advantageous to opt for an EPS packaging since, unlike cardboard, it stays in shape and remains usable when wet. It continues to protect and preserve adequately. Again, polystyrene keeps its physical properties even if it comes in contact with water or moisture. This is also the case for EPS insulated boxes. They are resistant to water and moisture from the outside environment, but also from what can be generated by the product inside. EPS containers can protect the product inside, insulate it and preserve it even if there’s water damage, which is not always possible with cardboard containers.
Moreover, the best way to demonstrate this statement is to think about floating docks. Expanded polystyrene parts are directly immersed into water for a very long time. This is also the case for lightweight fill blocks, roof slopes and subfloors for sports fields where this water-resistant material plays an important role. It stabilizes the ground, protects your roof against water infiltration while helping your performance on the field for many years.
Are you interested to learn more about expanded polystyrene and its properties or would you like to discuss about your project with one of our representatives? Contact us so we can answer your questions or offer you a solution.