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All About Expanded Polystyrene in Roofing

November , 2023 | 6 min. read

By Macie LaCau

EPS installation

Ever wondered what makes a roof efficient in keeping your home comfortable? Enter Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), a material that plays a silent but crucial role in modern roofing. As a homeowner, ensuring your house remains cozy in winter and cool in summer is essential!

That's where EPS steps in, providing insulation against extreme temperatures. This lightweight and durable material not only keeps your home snug but also helps prevent moisture and mold, safeguarding your living space. At RoofCrafters, we've replaced roofing systems with various materials since 1993. We know it's hard to keep up with all the options available, so we've made it our duty to educate you! 

Let's explore how this hidden hero, EPS, transforms the functionality of your roof to ensure your home stays a comfortable and secure place year-round. By the end, you'll understand the significance of materials like this one, helping you make more informed roofing decisions in the future. If you're ready to begin, so are we! 

What is Expanded Polystyrene (EPS)?

 

EPS is a lightweight, rigid, cellular plastic material that's made from polystyrene beads. These beads expand and fuse together during a heating process, forming a closed-cell structure. The resulting EPS has a multitude of tiny air pockets, which give it insulating properties. It's known for being moisture-resistant and thermally efficient, making it suitable for various applications, including roofing.

EPS insulation

How is EPS Used in Roofing?

 

EPS serves different functions in roofing systems. One of its primary applications is as insulation. It's installed in flat and sloped roofs, providing a thermal barrier that helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heat loss in the winter and minimizing heat gain in the summer.

EPS is available in different forms, from boards to panels, and it's commonly used as a top layer in multi-layer roof assemblies. These layers provide insulation while also adding structural integrity to the roof. EPS can be used in various roof structures, including both commercial and residential buildings.

The material is easy to install, which contributes to its popularity in the roofing industry. Due to its lightweight nature, it's manageable for contractors to transport and work with on the job site.

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Benefits of Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) in Roofing

 

  • Excellent Insulation: EPS offers superb thermal insulation, helping maintain consistent indoor temperatures. It reduces heat transfer, keeping homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer, thereby cutting down on energy consumption and costs.

  • Moisture Resistance: EPS is highly resistant to moisture, preventing water absorption and providing protection against mold and mildew growth in the roofing system.

    a man sitting at his kitchen table soaking wet reading a paper and drinking coffee while his roof leaks
  • Lightweight: Its lightweight nature adds minimal load to the roof structure, ensuring it doesn't put excessive pressure on the building's framework, ultimately contributing to the roof's longevity.

  • Durability: EPS in roofing is durable, capable of withstanding weather elements and long-term use without significant deterioration.

    Summer sun over the water
  • Easy Installation: Its manageable and easy-to-handle boards or panels make EPS a preferred choice for roofers, as it simplifies the installation process and saves time.

Insulation Properties

 

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation in roofing systems is excellent for maintaining home energy efficiency. It significantly minimizes heat loss and heat gain, reducing the need for excessive heating or air conditioning and decreasing energy consumption. By creating a thermal barrier, EPS helps regulate indoor temperatures and comfort levels throughout the year.

Moisture Resistance and Structural Integrity

 

The moisture resistance of EPS is a crucial benefit in roofing. Its closed-cell structure prevents water penetration, making it an adequate safeguard against mold, mildew, and other moisture-related damage to the roofing structure. It also maintains its insulating properties, even in high humidity conditions.

Lightweight and Easy Installation

 

The lightweight property of EPS is advantageous in roofing applications. It adds minimal weight to the structure, ensuring the roof is manageable. It's easy to handle, transport, and install, making it convenient for roofing contractors. This characteristic contributes to efficient installation, ultimately saving time and labor costs.

house with ice and water underlayment

Durability

 

EPS is robust and durable. It's designed to withstand the elements and maintain its insulation properties over time. This durability ensures that the roof continues to function efficiently, providing long-term thermal insulation and moisture resistance.

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Does EPS Benefit My Roofing System?

 

Expanded Polystyrene is a valuable material in the realm of roofing! Its insulation properties, lightweight structure, and moisture resistance make it a great choice for improving a roof's energy efficiency and durability. Understanding how EPS works in roofing systems sheds light on its importance in creating comfortable, well-insulated homes while contributing to long-lasting and resilient roofs.

Now, it's essential to remember that there are roofing professionals who are here for you and more than ready to take on your roofing project! We know that new roof installation may sound scary and a little confusing, but that's why experts are here. When it comes to your home, you deserve the smoothest transition possible from one roof to another. 

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At RoofCrafters, we want you to know that the roof of your dreams is only a number dial away. If you need to do a little more research before you make any commitments, however, take a look at our learning center! No matter if your roofing concern is big or small, we have you covered from the beginning to the very end of the process. If you're ready to get in touch with one of our friendly representatives, head over to our cottage page.

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Macie LaCau

I'm a native Georgian who spends my days nurturing my passions and embracing the quiet life. With a penchant for taking the road less traveled, I love discovering new ideas, rooting for the underdog, and taking the long way home. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, animals, and making memories.