1. Recommended Adhesives for Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation
Adhesives play a vital role in securing Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation effectively.
Best Option:
Great Stuff Pro™ Construction Adhesive is the most commonly recommended adhesive for its compatibility and long-term performance.
Alternative Adhesives:
Other DuPont adhesives are also suitable for various applications. Always check the adhesive manufacturer’s specifications to confirm compatibility with polystyrene-based insulation.
For a comprehensive list of compatible adhesives, consult your local supplier or explore DuPont’s adhesive solutions.
2. Recommended Fasteners for Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation
The choice of fasteners depends entirely on the specific application. Here are some common options for different use cases:
Ties and Anchors:
-
- Hohmann & Barnard, Inc.
TRUFAST® Walls
Brick Veneer Anchors:
-
- Heckmann Building Products, Inc.
TRUFAST® Walls
Concrete or Masonry Wall Fasteners:
-
- Hilti
UCAN Fastening Products
ITW Buildex (e.g., TAPCON concrete anchors)
3. Sealing Sheathing Seams
Proper sealing of sheathing seams reduces air infiltration and enhances the insulation’s performance.
Sealing Techniques:
- Use caulking or durable joint treatments like Great Stuff Pro™ Gaps & Cracks or LiquidArmor™ Flashing and Sealant for effective air and water barriers.
- These treatments complement the insulation’s continuous coverage over metal or wood studs when correctly applied.
This process ensures a tightly sealed building envelope, enhancing thermal resistance and moisture control.
4. Continuous Insulation and Z-Furring
When z-furring is used, the insulation is no longer considered continuous due to the thermal bridging created by the metal.
Why Z-Furring Breaks Continuity:
Z-furring introduces a line of continuous metal, reducing the effective R-value by short-circuiting heat around the insulation.
Alternative:
Continuous insulation is achieved when only fasteners penetrate the insulation, as these introduce minimal metal and preserve thermal performance.
For detailed illustrations comparing z-furring and continuous insulation, refer to DuPont’s downloadable resources.
What To Know
Proper installation of Styrofoam™ Brand XPS Insulation is critical to achieving optimal performance and longevity. From selecting the right adhesives and fasteners to sealing seams and maintaining continuous insulation, these best practices ensure that your building envelope is energy-efficient, durable, and effective. For additional guidance, consult DuPont’s expert resources or your local supplier.
