Extruded polystyrene (XPS) is a type of rigid foam insulation material commonly used in construction and other applications.
XPS is characterized by its closed-cell structure, which makes it resistant to moisture absorption and provides high thermal resistance.
The properties of extruded polystyrene make it an effective insulation material, used to reduce heat transfer and provide energy efficiency in buildings. It is commonly employed in applications such as insulating walls, roofs, and foundations.
Using extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation underneath hydronic heating systems can provide several benefits.
7 benefits of using extruded polystyrene (XPS) within hydronic heating systems
- 1. Improved Energy Efficiency: XPS insulation has a high R-value, which indicates its thermal resistance. By installing XPS insulation beneath hydronic heating systems, heat loss through the floor can be minimized. This helps retain the heat within the space, improving energy efficiency and reducing heating costs.
- 2. Enhanced Comfort: XPS insulation acts as a thermal barrier, preventing cold spots and drafts from seeping into the room. It helps maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature across the floor surface, promoting a cozy and even heating environment.
- 3. Reduced Heat-Up Time: By insulating the floor with XPS, heat transfer from the hydronic system to the room is accelerated. The insulation prevents heat from being absorbed by the subfloor, allowing it to be efficiently directed upward into the living space. This results in faster heat-up times and quicker response to heating demands.
- 4. Moisture Resistance: XPS insulation is moisture-resistant and does not absorb water. This characteristic helps protect the flooring and subfloor from moisture damage, which can occur in areas with high humidity or potential water leaks. Moisture resistance also helps maintain the insulation's performance and prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
- 5. Sound Insulation: XPS insulation offers acoustic benefits by reducing sound transmission between floors. It can help minimize impact noise, such as footsteps or objects dropping, improving overall acoustic comfort in the building.
- 6. Durability and Longevity: XPS insulation is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to compression. It can withstand the weight of the flooring materials, furniture, and foot traffic without significant degradation. As a result, it provides long-lasting insulation performance throughout the lifespan of the hydronic heating system.
- 7. Easy Installation: XPS insulation boards are lightweight and relatively easy to handle and install. They can be cut to fit the desired dimensions and can accommodate irregular surfaces. The installation process typically involves placing the insulation directly on the subfloor, creating a smooth and even surface for the flooring installation.
How to install extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation underneath a hydronic heating system
Below is a suggestion on how to lay extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation underneath hydronic heating:
- 1. Prepare the area: Clear the floor of any debris or obstructions. Ensure that the subfloor is clean, dry, and free from any moisture issues.
- 2. Measure and cut the XPS insulation: Measure the dimensions of the floor area where you plan to install the insulation. Use a utility knife or a suitable cutting tool to cut the XPS panels to fit the dimensions accurately.
- 3. Lay the XPS insulation: Start by placing the first panel along one edge of the room, ensuring that the edges are snug against the walls. Continue laying the panels, interlocking the edges tightly. Stagger the joints of each panel to minimize heat loss through seams. Use adhesive or specialized XPS tape to secure the joints between the panels, creating a continuous and sealed insulation layer.
- 4. Install a vapor barrier (optional): If your situation requires it, you may consider installing a vapor barrier over the XPS insulation to prevent moisture from seeping into the floor. This step is particularly important if you have a concrete subfloor or if you are installing the hydronic heating system in a below-grade area.
- 5. Install the hydronic heating system: Consult the manufacturer's instructions for the specific installation steps of your hydronic heating system. This typically involves laying down the pipes or tubing, securing them in place, and connecting them to the heating source. Ensure that the heating system is properly insulated, as well.
- 6. Secure the heating system: Use clips, brackets, or other suitable methods to secure the pipes or tubing of the hydronic heating system to the XPS insulation. This helps keep the system in place and prevents movement or damage during the subsequent flooring installation.
- 7. Proceed with flooring installation: Once the hydronic heating system is secured, you can proceed with installing your chosen flooring material. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific flooring type you have selected, whether it's tile, hardwood, laminate, or another material.
Remember, it's always important to consult the specific guidelines and recommendations provided by the manufacturers of both the extruded polystyrene insulation and the hydronic heating system to ensure proper installation and optimal performance.
When you choose extruded polystyrene by Foamex, you are choosing the only Australian-made XPS, that contains up to 95% recycled material.
Styroboard XPS by Foamex is the material of choice for home builders, specifiers, architects, and engineers due to its high compressive strength and superior thermal performance. A resilient and robust construction material, Styroboard XPS can be used across a wide range of residential and commercial building applications. Unlike other insulation materials that degrade when wet, Styroboard XPS is impervious to water. It will always preserve its thermal and physical properties under all conditions, thanks to its high-density closed-cell structure.
For more information on the Styroboard XPS range, please download the brochure below.
