External wall insulation is a key stage of energy-efficient construction.
In Ukraine, three materials are most commonly used for facade insulation.
Environmental Feasibility and LCA Analysis
Life cycle analysis (LCA) was conducted according to ISO 14040–44 standards.
Polystyrene Foam (EPS)
Expanded polystyrene, 98% air. One of the most common insulators in Ukraine.
Main Properties:
Thermal conductivity:
0.036–0.038 W/m·K
Density:
≥18 kg/m³
Moisture resistance:
hygroscopicity 3–15%
Vapor permeability:
low (0.02–0.05 mg/m·h·Pa)
Fire resistance:
flammable (G1 – self-extinguishing grades)
Durability:
up to 40–50 years
Advantages:
- Low cost and availability
- High thermal insulation properties
- Easy installation
- Light weight
- High moisture resistance
- Long service life
Disadvantages:
- Flammability and smoke toxicity
- Low vapor permeability
- Brittleness and weak sound insulation
- Sensitivity to UV
- Disposal difficulties
Approximate cost (2024–2025):
150–300 UAH/m² (100 mm)
Application:
Common in private sector, HOAs, old panel buildings.
Mineral Wool (Basalt Wool)
Fibrous insulation from molten rock. Popular for combining thermal insulation, non-flammability.
Main Properties:
Thermal conductivity:
0.035–0.039 W/m·K
Vapor permeability:
high (≈0.3 mg/m·h·Pa)
Fire resistance:
non-flammable (A1), withstands up to 700–1000 °C
Durability:
up to 50 years
Environmental friendliness:
natural raw materials + synthetic resins
Advantages:
- Absolute non-flammability
- Good thermal insulation
- High vapor permeability
- Good sound insulation
- Biostability and chemical inertness
- Environmental friendliness
Disadvantages:
- Hygroscopicity (up to 30% by mass)
- Higher cost than polystyrene
- More complex installation
Approximate cost (2024–2025):
450–600 UAH/m² (100 mm)
Application:
Used in comfort and business class buildings, high-rises.
Extruded Polystyrene (XPS)
A type of polystyrene with dense, uniform structure. High strength and moisture resistance.
Main Properties:
Thermal conductivity:
0.029–0.034 W/m·K
Density:
30–45 kg/m³
Moisture resistance:
very low water absorption (<1%)
Fire resistance:
flammable polymer, requires fire protection
Durability:
75–100 years
Advantages:
- High thermal insulation at lower thickness
- Strength and rigidity
- Low water absorption
- High durability
- Versatile application
Disadvantages:
- Higher price (1.5–2x more expensive than EPS)
- Very low vapor permeability
- Flammability
- Sensitivity to UV rays
Approximate cost (2024–2025):
350–450 UAH/m² (100 mm)
Application:
For insulating basements, foundations, flat roofs and wet areas.
Conclusions
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Polystyrene (EPS) — ideal for mass and budget insulation of private homes.
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Mineral wool — choice for objects with high fire safety requirements.
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XPS — optimal for wet zones and loaded structures.