FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Our products are NOT made of styrofoam. They're made of expanded polystyrene (EPS). Unlike styrofoam, our products do not use CFC's or HCFC's. These chemicals are bad for the environment. Styrofoam bad. EPS good.


What is EPS?

Expanded Polystyrene, often referred to as EPS in short, is a rigid, closed cell foam plastic. EPS properties have a low thermal conductivity, high compressive strength, is light weight, inert, has no food value, and does not promote mold growth, making it an ideal substrate for tile and stone.

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is processed from its resin form (a small bead resembling sugar). The resin contains a pentane gas which is safely released during the expansion process. With the addition of steam, the EPS resin expands up to 40% of its original size.

The expanded pallets are then transferred into a block moulder. The more pellets per cubic meter, the denser the produdct will be. Then the pellets are steam fused together moulding them into a block roughly 5m long, 1m wide and 3/4m high. This block can weigh up to 300kg.


What is Styrofoam?

Styrofoam is an extruded board which requires HCFC's to produce. A common misunderstanding about EPS is that it is referred to by many people as styrofoam. Styrofoam is actually a trademark for a product that is manufactured by Dow Chemical Company.


What is the Difference Between EPS and Styrofoam?

The most notable difference is that EPS does not, and never has used CFC's or HCFC's, which are harmful to the ozone layer. Styrofoam is an extruded board, whereas EPS is a molded cellular block.


What are the Advantages of Using Custom EPS Products?

  • It is extremely light weight, making it easy to handle
  • It is inert and stable and does not produce methane gas or contaminating leachates
  • It is hydro chlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) free
  • Is does not support the growth of mold
  • It is manufactured regionally so less fuel is used for transportation
  • It does not adversely affect indoor air quality
  • It is recyclable