Is Extruded Polystyrene Insulation a Vapor Barrier?

A: No, although EPS has a low water vapor transmission rate, EPS is not a vapor barrier. Rather it "breathes", and therefore does not require costly venting as do other insulation materials, which would otherwise trap moisture within walls and roof assemblies.

Is extruded polystyrene a Vapour barrier?

Styrofoam (which is actually a Dow Chemical brand name of extruded polystyrene) is a fairly good vapour barrier. It will not cause problems in the Canadian climate if you put on at least 1-1/2 inch thick and preferably in 2 ft. x 8 ft sheets applied horizontally.

Is XPS insulation a vapor barrier?

XPS is manufactured in both an unfaced form or with different plastic facings. However, XPS is considered a vapor retarder, not a vapor barrier. ... Innovative applications of EPS and XPS have improved a building's envelope thermal performance.

Alexander Ross

Alexander Ross

Gaming, Esports & Interactive Media Writer

Alexander Ross has covered the video game industry for a decade, writing deep dives on game design, esports tournaments, VR developments, and gaming culture.