Expanded polystyrene (EPS) isn’t just used for fruit and vegetable packaging, it’s also used in the construction industry. In fact, around 70% of all EPS in Australia is used in construction, with only 30% used for packaging goods.
What is EPS?
- EPS is 98% air, meaning it is lightweight to transport, easy to use, non-toxic and doesn’t rot.
- Rated with 8 A+ credentials according to BRE’s Green Guide to Specification which is a guide to how to make your construction project as environmentally friendly as possible.
- One of the most efficient forms of thermal insulation on the market and extremely cost effective.
- It’s also the key to achieving greenhouse gas abatement targets in buildings.
- EPS is able to be 100% recycled into new polystyrene products.
Where can I use it?
- Under the National Construction Code, EPS products, including within EIFS systems that have been independently tested and approved for use, can be installed in classes 1 and 10 buildings right across the Country. That is – domestic and commercial dwellings of 1 or 2 storeys.
- It can be used in classes 2-9 buildings however an application must be made to the Victorian Building Tribunal before it can be used in Victoria.
What is EPS cladding?
- EPS is regularly used in domestic and commercial construction projects across Australia as an insulation panel.
- In the Australian construction sector, it is commonly sold as part of an external insulation finishing system or EIFS. This is a multi-layered cladding system designed for building exteriors that commonly involves EPS as the insulation part, clad in another material and finally rendered.
- Polystyrene products used for construction purposes should be fire-retardant. The polystyrene components must be compliant with Australian Standard AS1366.3.
- Fire-retardant EPS products are safe and fit for purpose when installed correctly and installed by qualified professionals.
- EPS building products installed correctly are not an undue fire hazard. They will burn when in contact with a flame, like any other organic building material such as wood, but collapses in on itself and will extinguish when the flame source is removed.
