Pros and Cons of Foam Insulation – Polyiso vs XPS vs EPS

Pros and Cons of Foam Insulation - Polyiso vs XPS vs EPS

Rigid foam insulation plays a critical role in building envelope performance, balancing thermal resistance, moisture management, and structural durability. Among the most widely used materials in this category are Extruded Polystyrene (XPS), Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), and Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso)—each engineered through distinct manufacturing processes that yield markedly different physical and thermal properties. This article provides a…

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High-Performance Building Case Studies with Foam Board Insulation

High-Performance Building Case Studies with Foam Board Insulation

The growing emphasis on sustainable construction has pushed building professionals and homeowners alike to adopt more efficient and durable insulation strategies—particularly in retrofit contexts where existing structures must be adapted for 21st-century energy demands. Among the most effective materials in deep energy retrofits are rigid foam board insulations such as expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene…

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Cut Carbon with Reclaimed Foam Panel Insulation

Cut Carbon with Reclaimed Foam Panel Insulation

When it comes to making buildings more sustainable, insulation plays a powerful role—not just in how much energy a building uses over time, but in the environmental cost of producing the materials themselves. While attention has often focused on operational energy efficiency, a growing body of research shows that embodied carbon—the greenhouse gas emissions from…

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Resources on Deep Energy Retrofits

Resources on Deep Energy Retrofits

Below is a curated list of 20 resources focusing on deep energy retrofits for buildings, with a particular emphasis on foam panel insulation (polyiso, EPS, XPS). All links point to reputable third-party sites—primarily doe.gov or epa.gov. Each entry includes a short paragraph describing the resource, its relevance, and why it’s worth consulting. Where possible, case…

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Layered vs. Single-Layer Foam Panel Insulation: A Comparative Analysis

Layered vs. Single-Layer Foam Panel Insulation: A Comparative Analysis

This article compares two common methods for continuous insulation (CI): layered foam panel insulation versus thicker single-layer foam insulation. By evaluating their advantages, disadvantages, and performance characteristics, building professionals and homeowners can make informed decisions regarding insulation strategies. Green Insulation provides reclaimed foam panel insulation throughout New England, helping builders and homeowners save energy, reduce…

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Exterior XPS Retrofits Over Plank Sheathing

EXTRUDED POLYSTYRENE - XPS

Let’s get this house properly retrofitted for energy efficiency in your Massachusetts climate! You’re making a wise choice with continuous exterior XPS insulation, especially in a cold climate like yours. Using reclaimed XPS from Green Insulation is also a great sustainable approach, reducing both costs and environmental impact. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the layers,…

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Best Practices for Exterior XPS Retrofits

Best Practices for Exterior XPS Retrofits

Let’s get this house properly retrofitted for energy efficiency in your Massachusetts climate! You’re making a wise choice with continuous exterior XPS insulation, especially in this cold climate. Using reclaimed XPS from Green Insulation is also a great sustainable approach, reducing both costs and environmental impact. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the layers, materials, and…

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Enhancing Wall Insulation with Reclaimed Polyiso Panels for Cold-Climate Retrofits

Reclaimed polyisocyanurate (polyiso) insulation panels have emerged as a highly effective solution for improving the thermal performance of exterior walls in cold climates. With their high R-value per inch, sustainability benefits, and ease of air-sealing, these panels are an excellent choice for deep energy retrofits. Retrofitting older homes with reclaimed polyiso not only enhances energy…

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Thermal Performance of Reclaimed Foam Insulation in Cold Climates

Thermal Performance of Reclaimed Foam Insulation in Cold Climates

Reclaimed foam insulation is gaining traction as a sustainable and cost-effective solution for enhancing building energy efficiency, particularly in cold climates where effective insulation is paramount. Understanding the thermal performance of various foam insulations, especially concerning thermal drift, is crucial for making informed decisions in these environments. For high-quality reclaimed foam insulation solutions, including XPS,…

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Foundation Insulation Retrofit: Applying Reclaimed XPS for Thermal Protection

Schematic of foundation insulation retrofit with ccSPF, moisture membrane, and XPS

Foundation insulation is a crucial component of energy-efficient construction and retrofitting. It helps prevent heat loss, moisture intrusion, and related issues, ensuring a more comfortable and sustainable building environment. Reclaimed Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) foam boards stand out as an ideal choice for insulating foundations, offering a combination of durability, moisture resistance, and cost-effectiveness. Green Insulation,…

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