Styrmann expanded polystyrene (EPS) foams, with very low water absorption and reduced water absorption, commonly known as waterproof foams, are designed for insulating rooms at increased risk of moisture. This waterproofing element is typically used for the lower parts of buildings, such as foundations, floors, and basements, but in recent years, they have also been increasingly used to protect terraces, green roofs, retention roofs, flat roofs, bathrooms, kitchens, and swimming pools. In some cases, they are also used in road construction, and their excellent insulating properties allow for use in areas prone to cold, such as freezers, cold stores, and pantries. The use of expanded polystyrene in construction is defined by the harmonized standard PN-EN 13163 for “Thermal insulation products for buildings” and A1:2015 for “Factory-made expanded polystyrene (EPS) products.” Only products that meet these requirements guarantee adequate quality and can be used for construction purposes.
A solid foundation is key!
Good moisture insulation is absolutely essential. Externally, foundations are susceptible to moisture due to poor groundwater drainage, caused by leaky vertical and horizontal insulation. Properly selected and effectively installed horizontal insulation prevents moisture from penetrating directly from the ground. Vertical insulation protects walls from seepage and external moisture. To protect walls below ground level from water absorption, which can lead to cracking and crumbling in the long run, it is recommended to install a waterproofing element made of polystyrene, which does not absorb water, both externally and internally. Polystyrene thermal insulation will retain heat in the room, preventing it from being lost and penetrating the ground.
Why does moisture build up inside rooms and how can it be avoided?
One cause of moisture is poorly constructed insulation. Leaks lead to moisture ingress from the outside or from below. Rising groundwater and its strong pressure can cause the insulation to break through the leaks and burst due to the enormous forces it is constantly subjected to. In addition to the workmanship, the selection of appropriate building materials is crucial. Above all, they should be durable and last for years. The quality of the materials is crucial here. Careful planning and a well-thought-out, tailored design are developed with consideration of local soil conditions. It is important to determine the type of subsoil, its frost penetration, and the groundwater level. The issue of soil type is regulated by law, and the design must take local conditions into account. In addition to the workmanship, the selection of appropriate building materials is crucial. Above all, they should be durable and last for years. The quality of the materials is crucial here. Poorly constructed foundations can pose a significant problem in the future, and re-installing them may prove impossible or uneconomical.
Solid and certified polystyrene boards protecting against moisture.
Styrmann offers specialized and certified EPS foundation polystyrene in five varieties. Depending on the room type and partition type, we can use waterproof polystyrene boards:
AQUA-STYR EPS 100-037 smooth polystyrene boards are available in dimensions of 500×1000 mm. Standard thicknesses range from 10 to 300 mm in 10 mm increments. Larger boards are also available upon request.
AQUA-STYR EPS 100-037 milled polystyrene boards are available in dimensions of 500×1000 mm. Thicknesses range from 50 to 200 mm in 10 mm increments.
AQUA-STYR EPS 150-035
AQUA-STYR EPS 150-035 milled polystyrene boards are available in dimensions 500×1000 mm. Thicknesses of 50 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, 120 mm, and 150 mm, milled.
AQUA-STYR EPS 200-034
AQUA-STYR EPS 200-034 milled polystyrene boards are available in dimensions 500×1000 mm. Thicknesses of 50 mm, 80 mm, 100 mm, 120 mm, and 150 mm, milled.
BLUE-STYR EPS 150 034
Blue waterproof BLUE-STYR EPS 150 polystyrene boards are available in dimensions of 500×1000 mm. Standard thicknesses range from 10 to 300 mm in 10 mm increments. Larger boards are also available upon request, as are milled boards from 50 mm.
BLACK-STYR UNIVERSAL EPS 100 031
BLACK-STYR UNIVERSAL EPS 100 031 polystyrene boards are available in dimensions of 500×1000 mm. Standard thicknesses range from 10 mm to 300 mm in 10 mm increments. Larger boards are also available upon request, as are milled boards starting at 50 mm thick.
Proven solutions and peace of mind for years to come
Waterproof polystyrene provides an ideal barrier against moisture. It is widely used in modern construction and a popular choice among contractors. The better the mechanical resistance, the lower the long-term water absorption, and the specialized use of the product, the higher the quality of moisture protection for the structure. By choosing polystyrene from the Polish polystyrene manufacturer Styrmann, based in Gawartowa Wola near Warsaw, customers receive effective and proven insulation that will last for years.
For more information, please contact our sales office and Styrmann sales representatives.
phone +48 (22) 725 62 73
e-mail: biuro@styrmann.com.pl