EPS boards vs mineral wool for EWI: 5 Critical Differences Revealed
EPS Boards vs Mineral Wool for EWI: Choosing the Right Insulation
Selecting the optimal insulation material is crucial for effective External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems. This comprehensive guide examines EPS boards vs mineral wool for EWI, helping property owners make informed decisions. At Simple Solutions 4 U, we bring 15 years of expertise in supplying premium EWI systems across the UK, ensuring your projects achieve maximum energy efficiency and durability.
Understanding EWI Fundamentals
External Wall Insulation involves adding a protective layer to building exteriors, significantly improving thermal performance. The insulation material forms the core component determining:
- Overall thermal efficiency
- Long-term building protection
- Fire safety compliance
- Moisture management
- Acoustic performance
Proper installation by certified professionals like Simple Solutions 4 U ensures optimal results regardless of material choice.
EPS Boards: Technical Overview
Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) boards consist of fused polystyrene beads forming rigid panels. Key characteristics include:
- Thermal conductivity: 0.032-0.038 W/mK
- Density range: 15-30 kg/m³
- Compressive strength: 70-100 kPa
These boards provide consistent thermal performance across various climates. Their closed-cell structure resists moisture absorption, preventing degradation in wet conditions. Installation advantages include lightweight handling and easy cutting with standard tools.
Mineral Wool: Technical Specifications
Mineral wool insulation comprises spun volcanic rock fibers. Critical properties:
- Thermal conductivity: 0.035-0.040 W/mK
- Density range: 50-150 kg/m³
- Temperature resistance: Up to 850°C
The fibrous structure creates natural sound dampening, reducing noise pollution by 50-60% compared to alternatives. Its vapor-permeable nature allows moisture diffusion, ideal for older building fabrics.
EPS boards vs mineral wool for EWI: 5 Critical Comparison Factors
1. Thermal Performance Analysis
| Material | 100mm U-Value (W/m²K) | Wall U-Value Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| EPS | 0.032 | 0.28 |
| Mineral Wool | 0.035 | 0.30 |
While EPS offers marginally superior thermal resistance, mineral wool provides more consistent performance in extreme temperature fluctuations.
2. Cost Breakdown
Material costs significantly differ between systems:
- EPS systems: £23.01/m² average
- Mineral wool systems: £37.70/m² average
Simple Solutions 4 U offers trade discounts on both materials, making premium insulation more accessible.
3. Fire Safety Compliance
Mineral wool holds Euroclass A1 non-combustible certification, requiring no additional fire breaks. EPS requires protective render coatings and fire breaks above two storeys. For buildings exceeding 18m height, mineral wool is mandatory under UK building regulations.
4. Moisture Management
Mineral wool’s breathability prevents condensation buildup, while EPS’s moisture resistance suits modern masonry constructions. Consider your building’s age and existing vapor permeability when choosing.
5. Acoustic Performance
Mineral wool reduces airborne noise by 15-20dB more than EPS. This makes it ideal for:
- Urban properties near roads
- Multi-occupancy buildings
- Home offices requiring quiet
Installation Considerations
EPS installation involves adhesive bonding and mechanical fixing with 6-8 fixings/m². Mineral wool requires specialized cutting tools and 8-10 fixings/m² due to higher density. At Simple Solutions 4 U, our certified installers handle both materials efficiently, ensuring seamless system integration.
Durability and Maintenance
Both materials offer 30+ year lifespans when installed correctly. EPS maintains consistent R-values over time, while mineral wool’s non-combustible nature provides inherent fire protection. Regular inspections every 5 years ensure system integrity.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Mineral wool contains 40-70% recycled content and is fully recyclable. EPS production has higher embodied energy but newer graphite-enhanced versions improve thermal efficiency by 20%, reducing long-term carbon footprint.
Application-Specific Recommendations
Choose EPS When:
- Budget constraints exist
- Maximizing thermal efficiency is critical
- Modern masonry construction
- Lightweight solution needed
Select Mineral Wool When:
- Fire safety is paramount
- Acoustic insulation required
- Breathable construction essential
- Historic building preservation
Why Choose Simple Solutions 4 U
With 15 years of specialized experience in EWI systems, we provide:
- Technical guidance on EPS boards vs mineral wool for EWI
- Premium materials from leading manufacturers
- Trade discounts up to 20%
- Certified installation services
- After-sales support and maintenance
Contact our experts at T: 07877 329 472 or E: info@simplesolution4ushop.co.uk for project-specific advice.
Conclusion
The EPS boards vs mineral wool for EWI decision hinges on project priorities. While EPS offers cost and thermal advantages, mineral wool excels in fire safety and acoustic performance. Simple Solutions 4 U’s expertise ensures optimal material selection and flawless installation for your EWI project.
