Insulation

EPS Insulation.

EPS has a significantly higher CO₂ footprint than mineral wool and cellulose insulation. Use it only where technically necessary (load-bearing constructions), and consider alternatives.

Key Figures

Carbon Footprint (GWP): 3.29 kg CO₂-eq/kg
Density: 15–30 kg/m³
Expected Lifespan: 50+ år

What is eps insulation?

EPS (Expanded Polystyrene, 'foam plastic') is one of the most widely used insulations for ground floors, plinths, and ETICS facades. It is light, inexpensive, and has good compressive strength. The carbon footprint is significant, and it is not biodegradable. Newer versions with graphite (grey EPS) have better insulating capacity.

Carbon Footprint Compared

Cellulose insulation ← this material 0.12 kg CO₂/kg

Mineral wool 1.05 kg CO₂/kg

EPS 3.29 kg CO₂/kg

XPS 4.16 kg CO₂/kg

Negative carbon footprint (green) indicates carbon storage. Data based on EPD averages from ECO Platform and estimates per EN 15804.

Typical Applications

check_circle Ground floor insulation
check_circle Plinth insulation
check_circle ETICS facades
check_circle Flat roofs (inverted)

In Renovation

EPS is typically used for ground floor renovation, plinth insulation, and ETICS facades on existing buildings. It is a compromise: inexpensive and effective, but with high CO₂ and disposal problems.

Questions about eps insulation

Is EPS harmful to the environment?

EPS is not biodegradable and becomes microplastic if not disposed of correctly. Flame retardants in EPS can contain problematic chemicals. Consider cellulose insulation or mineral wool as alternatives.

What is the difference between EPS and XPS?

EPS is expanded polystyrene (air bubbles). XPS is extruded polystyrene and is denser, stronger, and more moisture-resistant — but has even higher CO₂ footprint (4.16 vs. 3.29 kg/kg). XPS is used for moisture-exposed structures like plinths and flat roof edges.

Can EPS be recycled?

EPS can technically be recycled (melted and granulated), but recycling rates are low in practice. Most EPS ends up in incineration (energy recovery) rather than genuine material recycling.

Is grey EPS better?

Grey EPS contains graphite that improves insulating capacity by approximately 20% compared to white EPS at the same thickness. It gives the same insulation in a thinner board, but CO₂ footprint per kg is roughly the same.

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