General
What is Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and how is it used?
EPS is a lightweight, closed-cell plastic foam made up of thousands of air-filled beads. It’s widely used in construction, packaging, and insulation due to its thermal efficiency, strength, and versatility. At Foamex, our premium EPS is used in applications ranging from waffle pods and under-slab insulation to protective packaging and signage.
Does Foamex sell directly to the public?
Yes. While our core business serves wholesalers and commercial clients, we also supply EPS products directly to individuals. Please note that minimum order quantities may apply depending on the product type and service requirements.
Can EPS be custom-cut?
Absolutely. We offer custom cutting based on your drawings or dimensions. Our advanced cutting technology ensures precision, whether you’re after architectural profiles, 3D signage, or complex formwork shapes.
Is EPS waterproof?
EPS is highly moisture-resistant due to its closed-cell structure. While it doesn’t absorb water like sponge-based foams, prolonged submersion may allow minimal water to fill surface channels—without affecting performance.
Ordering, Delivery & Support
How do I get pricing for Foamex products?
Contact your nearest Foamex branch with details about your project or product needs on 1300 283 626. We’ll provide a tailored quote, including advice on quantities, turnaround time, and delivery options.
Can I get help estimating quantities?
Yes—our team offers free scheduling and estimating services. Just provide your engineer’s drawings or specs, and we’ll calculate your materials and quantities.
Does Foamex offer delivery?
Yes. We operate our own national fleet to ensure timely and reliable delivery across metro and regional locations.
Can I get technical or product support?
Of course. Our team can assist with specs, installation guides, compliance, and sustainability requirements—making sure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
What is the difference between XPS and EPS?
While both are rigid polystyrene foam insulation products, EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) is made by expanding beads of polystyrene, while XPS (Extruded Polystyrene) is formed through a continuous extrusion process. XPS has a more uniform, closed-cell structure, which gives it higher compressive strength and moisture resistance—making it ideal for below-grade and high-load applications.
What are the main applications of XPS insulation?
XPS is commonly used in under-slab insulation, rooftop gardens, perimeter slab edge insulation, basement walls, and inverted roofs. Its moisture resistance and thermal performance make it ideal for wet environments or where consistent insulation is critical. Foamex’s XPS products, including our Styroboard® XPS, are engineered for durability and performance in commercial and residential construction.
What are the key benefits of XPS insulation?
XPS offers high compressive strength, excellent thermal insulation (with an R-value of around 1.13 per 50mm), and low water absorption. It’s also easy to handle, cut, and install—reducing labour time on site. Its durability and consistent performance over time make it a premium choice for demanding insulation applications.
Can XPS be recycled?
Yes, XPS is fully recyclable. But we only recycle our own XPS, because we know our brand does not contain nasty materials. We are unable to accept XPS for recycler from imported, inferior quality boards. Our Styroboard® XPS with up to 90% recycled content,showcases our commitment to innovation and circularity—reusing reclaimed EPS to produce high-quality XPS insulation for sustainable builds.
Is XPS suitable for energy-efficient and green building projects?
Absolutely. XPS provides long-term thermal efficiency that supports 7-star energy ratings, Green Star certifications, and compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC). Its insulating properties significantly reduce heating and cooling loads over the life of the building.
EPS in Construction
What are the benefits of using EPS in construction?
EPS provides thermal insulation, strength, and formability at a fraction of the weight of other materials. It’s easy to handle, recyclable, cost-effective, and compliant with Australian standards—making it a preferred choice for modern slab construction, insulation, and void forming.
What are EPS waffle pods and how do they work?
EPS waffle pods are used to create voids in concrete slabs, reducing concrete usage and enhancing thermal performance. The pods are laid out in a grid, reinforced with steel, and then encased in concrete—forming a strong, insulated slab system.
Can waffle pods be used on all soil types?
Yes. EPS waffle pod systems are suitable for stable, moderately reactive, and highly reactive soil types when designed according to AS2870. They offer an adaptable solution for diverse site conditions.
How do waffle pods improve energy efficiency?
EPS pods contribute up to R1.0 in thermal resistance within slab systems. This reduces heat loss and supports compliance with Australia’s 7-star energy rating requirement—lowering long-term energy costs in residential and commercial builds.
What is the EPSA Pod Code of Practice, and does Foamex follow it?
Yes—Foamex fully adheres to the EPSA Pod Code. This includes best practices for pod storage, transportation, recycling, and site management. We also work with builders to ensure safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible installation.
EPS Packaging
Why is EPS used for packaging?
EPS combines strength, shock absorption, and thermal insulation, making it ideal for protecting fragile items like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishable food during transit. It’s lightweight, which also reduces shipping costs.
Can EPS packaging be recycled?
Yes—EPS is fully recyclable. Clean EPS packaging can be returned through Foamex’s commercial agreements or via public drop-off points through StyroCycle. Recycled material is remanufactured into insulation and other building products.
Can EPS withstand water exposure?
Yes. EPS doesn’t absorb water in the way sponge or open-cell foams do. It retains its insulation and structural performance even in damp or cold-chain environments.
Is EPS packaging banned in Australia?
No. EPS is only restricted in specific single-use contexts (like takeaway containers). It remains fully permitted—and essential—for construction, cold-chain transport, and industrial packaging under the National Plastics Plan.
Recycling Services
What’s the difference between Foamex recycling and StyroCycle?
EPS combines strength, shock absorption, and thermal insulation, making it ideal for protecting fragile items like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and perishable food during transit. It’s lightweight, which also reduces shipping costs.
Can I recycle EPS from my construction site with Foamex?
Yes. We offer scrap bags, tie-downs, and scheduled pick-up services for site waste. We recycle all EPS material—offcuts, unused pods, and fine dust—through our closed-loop manufacturing system.
Do you offer commercial EPS collection services?
Absolutely. We partner with businesses of all sizes to provide bulk EPS collection. These are paid services tailored to location, volume, and frequency—supporting long-term waste reduction goals.
What kind of EPS does Foamex accept?
We accept clean, white EPS—such as packaging blocks or construction offcuts. Material must be free of contaminants like sticky tape, food, paint, or plastic wrap to be processed.
Where are your public drop-off locations?
Drop-off points are available at Foamex sites in VIC, NSW, and SA. Visit our Recycling page for up-to-date locations, hours, and rules on what can and can’t be accepted.