Question 1

What is R value

Accepted Answer

The 'R' value, or Thermal Resistance of a material, expresses the ability of a particular thickness of that material to resist heat flow.

The definition of R value is the reciprocal of the material's thermal conductance (C value).

The R value refers to the thermal resistance of a material, or assembly of materials such as the wall of a building, and is used to find the overall thermal resistance of an assembly of materials by simply adding individual component R values.

Question 2

Do I need insulation?

Accepted Answer

It is worth investing in insulation for both comfort as well as easing your electricity costs.

EPS provides efficient, cost-effective insulation from sub-zero temperatures (freezer insulation) to the high temperatures around 80°C (on hot water pipes). In the construction and insulation industries EPS is the first choice for performance, sustainability and economy.

Question 3

How much expanded polystyrene (EPS) do I need?

Accepted Answer

Koolfoam manufacture blocks and sheets; our standard sheet size 2500 X 1200 X 25mm is $22.

We deliver orders in the Brisbane metro area and can arrange delivery to Gold and Sunshine Coasts.

We can cut special shapes too if you need them eg large cutout letters and numbers.

Contact Koolfoam’s experienced staff and we’ll work it out for you!

Question 4

How do I cut and shape expanded polystyrene (EPS)?

Accepted Answer

You can use a serrated kitchen knife or fine wood saw but hot wire is the most effective.

Question 5

What adhesives can I use?

Accepted Answer

There are a variety of adhesives that are suitable for gluing polystyrene depending on the application eg this spray adhesive works well.

Question 6

What paint should I use?

Accepted Answer

Acrylic and latex paints are most suitable for polystyrene. Solvent and oil based paints may “melt” the surface and are not recommended.

Question 7

How do I recycle expanded polystyrene (EPS)?

Accepted Answer

Don’t send your polystyrene offcuts, trimmings and excess packaging to landfill, send it to Koolfoam.

Koolfoam can recycle it into beanbag fill, regran for packaging or potting mix.

Not sure? Call Koolfoam for advice.

Comparative testing of some materials («> AS 1530, Part J Early Fire Hazard Test
Material	Ignitability Index (0-20)	Spread of Flame Index (0-10)	HeatEvolved Index (0-10)	HeatEvolved Index (0-10)
EPS	12	0	3	5
Australian Hardwood (bare)	14	6	7	3
Australian Softwood (bare)	16	9	7	3
Oregon	13	6	5	3
Bluegum	11	0	3	2
Source: EPS: AWT A Test Report No. 9-96156 Other materials: EBS Notes on the Science of Building NSB66.

koolfoam certifications

Australian Standard AS/NZS 4859.1-2018