Rigid Foam Board Insulation Services

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Rigid foam board is another popular insulation option that’s worth looking at when it comes to insulating your home. While it is priced higher than other insulation materials on the market today, most contractors agree the cost is worth it. Despite the thin packaging it comes in, it packs a high R-value and can insulate/soundproof any part of a home quite well. It’s also relatively easy to install, especially in open walls where the boards can be packed in quickly. You can learn more about this type of insulation below.

What is Rigid Foam Board Insulation?

You can expect rigid foam boards to look much like the name implies, as each board of insulation is firm and either pink or blue in color. There are different thicknesses of boards available, making it easy to achieve the R-value you want for the room this insulation is being placed in. When it comes to the material that boards are made out of, you have the choice between EPS, XPS, and ISO. Each of these has its own unique qualities, which you can learn more about below.

Pros of Rigid Foam Board:

  • Higher R-value than most other insulation materials
  • Waterproof boards can be found
  • Easy to cut
  • Protective layer already installed

Cons of Rigid Foam Board:

  • Must be tightly installed to prevent air gaps
  • Can be damaged by UV light
  • Certain types are not environmentally friendly
  • Expensive

Best Material Types to Consider

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Polyisocyanurate (ISO)

This is the most expensive type of rigid foam panel that you can find, although the R-value is also the highest at R-5.7 to R-6. It is first designed as a liquid foam that is sprayed against the substrate to create the rigid panel that you end up with in your home. If you’re looking for an extra layer of protection, these do come with foil on one side to make them vapor impermeable. ISO can be installed anywhere you need insulation, although boards that have a foil backing should not be installed in areas where there is an interior vapor barrier already present.

The price for this type of insulation will vary, with most 1″ boards coasting $0.67 per square foot and 3″ costing $1.26 per square foot.

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Extruded polystyrene (XPS)

This type of rigid foam board is made from extruded polystyrene and has an R-value of 5 per inch. It’s the most water-resistant rigid foam board available and is both strong and dense as well. Unfortunately, XPS can be quite expensive with boards ranging from $14.47 to $33.92 each. This is why it’s rarely used for roofing applications and instead is used for heavyweight decks, basements, and interior walls. If you have a larger budget available, then this is a solid choice for your home for the best energy efficiency and soundproofing possible.

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Expanded polystyrene (EPS)

This is the most budget-friendly type of rigid foam available and is also known as beadboard. It’s made from expanded polystyrene and may come with a plastic backing to create a firmer board with added longevity. You’ll normally see contractors using this on flat roofs, as it’s a material that performs well and is much more affordable than other rigid foam boards. The cost of these boards will vary between $9 and $13, depending on the thickness and size chosen. Beyond roofing applications, this can be installed in walls, attics, and basements with the appropriate barriers in place.

Our 5 Step Insulation Installation Process

At Action 1 Insulation, we don’t limit our customers to only one type of insulation. We work with all different materials so each commercial and residential customer’s needs will be met. Our team has the experience, knowledge, and expertise to recommend and install each of the insulation types below.

Step 1 Assessment

Before installing insulation, conduct a thorough assessment of the space. Identify areas where heat loss or gain is most significant, such as attics, walls, and crawl spaces. Look for moisture issues, air leaks, or structural damage. Proper evaluation ensures the insulation method addresses the specific energy efficiency needed.

Step 2 Material Selection

Choose the appropriate insulation material based on R-value requirements, climate zone, budget, and installation area. Common types include fiberglass batts, spray foam, cellulose, and rigid foam boards. Each material has unique benefits—consider fire resistance, moisture control, and ease of installation.

Step 3 Preparation

Clear the area of debris, dust, and old insulation if present. Seal air leaks around vents, windows, and electrical outlets using caulk or spray foam. Ensure the space is dry to prevent mold growth. Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks to safeguard against irritation during the installation process.

Step 4 Installation

Carefully install the insulation according to manufacturer guidelines. Fit materials snugly into cavities without compressing them, as this reduces effectiveness. For batts or rolls, cut to size for precision. Spray foam must be applied evenly. Pay attention to corners, edges, and hard-to-reach spots to avoid thermal bridging or gaps.

Step 5 Finishing Touches

After insulation is in place, add vapor barriers if needed and cover exposed areas with drywall or paneling. Inspect for any missed spots or uneven areas. Dispose of waste material responsibly. Label newly insulated areas for future reference, and ensure the installation meets local building codes and inspection standards.

How Our Team Can Help You

Not sure about hiring a professional? Let us help you learn more about Action 1 Insulation! We are proud of the ways we can help you with rigid foam board in your home.
Discuss Your Options
Our contractors will come to your home and discuss your project with you to determine which rigid board will work best. They’ll lay out your options, discuss your budget, and give you more in-depth information about the benefits and drawbacks of each material. With their help, you will buy the right material the first time around, which saves both time and money.
Professional Installation
Our contractors can install insulation quickly and without sacrificing results. That’s because they have years of experience working with rigid foam insulation and know exactly how to install it in any part of the home. They will use the materials properly so nothing is wasted and you don’t need to buy more because of mistakes.
Value
Once the installation is done, your contractor will walk you through the job so you can see what they did. They’ll also explain how the insulation will help your home and what you can expect with it in the future. Although it does cost more to hire a professional, their knowledge and expertise mean you get maximum value for the price that you pay.

Types of Insulation We Install

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