True R-Value with Expanded Polystyrene
Northern EPS wall panels are insulated with 6" of expanded polystyrene (EPS). This material holds a number of advantages over conventional fibreglass insulation. First, its initial R-value is more stable and predictable. Second, the cellular structure of EPS eliminates the decay that conventional insulation is subject to. So your house will be as warm 25 years from now as it is the day the building is completed.
But that is not all. Publicly-rated R-value is derived from lab tests in ideal conditions. These ratings do not take into account the loss of heat through studs, cracks, and so on. It has been proven that external conditions such as wind and moisture drastically reduce the effective R-value of walls utilizing traditional fibreglass insulation. In other words: when you need it most, the thermal efficiency of conventional insulation just is not there for you.
In contrast, the thermal efficiency of EPS is amazingly stable under virtually any conditions, and Northern EPS consolidates this stability by keeping things much better sealed than conventional stud-and-fibreglass walls do.
We don't just promise good insulation value in the lab. Northern EPS walls are built to deliver in the howling winds of the Canadian north.
Structural Insulated Panels by Northern EPS are "Done Right"
It is not enough to use the right materials. The Northern EPS system involves foresight and workmanship in keeping with the quality of the insulation material we use. This ensures the highest possible insulating value for your home.
Here are a few key ways in which we maintain top-notch insulation value:
- We don't skimp: your EPS panels are a full 6" thick to provide optimum insulation.
- All framing is snugly fitted to the EPS panels to maximize R-value.
- All seams are fully sealed with acoustic sealant to prevent unwanted transference of air and moisture.
- Studs are offset from the expanded polystyrene, so that even at the stud there is 2" of EPS insulation.
- The offsetting of the studs also means that it is not necessary to create channels and holes in the EPS (which would compromise its insulation value) in order to run e.g. electrical and communications wires: 1 1/2" of exposed stud is available on the inner side of the panel for such purposes.
Flexibility and Ease of Use
We make things easy for you. No need to waste your valuable time making things work. Northern EPS will build your wall panels specifically for your project, including building to your precise dimensions, and inclusion of professional rough-ins for doors and windows. We also install backing for attaching siding, if desired.
Most local building codes in the Grande Prairie area do not require vapour barrier. You may need air barrier (outside wall); check with your own local building code.
The Problem of Heat Loss
How studs contribute to The Great Escape of warmth....
Notice the obvious moisture variance in the picture above. This is an indicator that even new homes insulated conventionally are giving up a lot of heat through the studs.
Experts tell us that a 2x6 stud has an R-value (thermal resistance) of about 6.875; a 2x4 is about 4.375. So even if your conventional fibreglass insulation was installed perfectly (chances are, it wasn't), the real R-value of your wall system is much lower than the rated R-value of your insulation.
With Northern EPS wall systems, your 2x6 stud is not exposed to the outside - 2" of expanded polystyrene is left beyond the stud to help keep the warmth in. And the cold out. (More detailed information at left.)