As global supply chain issues persist with ongoing effects of the pandemic and extreme weather events, shortages continue. Builders are facing tough decisions amid delays in new construction. Sourcing alternative products is becoming more common as they work to keep projects moving forward in order to meet their goals and the demand for housing.
Shortages in building envelope materials such as OSB, spray foam and foam board insulation are among the many products not readily available. And, builders needing an option for foam board, for instance, are considering where to find the ideal substitute.
Foam board insulation is easy to install and provides continuous insulation, making it a top choice among contractors and DIYers. This type of insulation has high moisture resistance, making it great for applications in hot-humid climates. It is, however, more expensive than traditional insulation.
Fi-Foil has an ideal alternative with Flex Foam reflective foam insulation. Flex Foam provides continuous insulation, and one roll is equal to eight sheets of foam board. It’s easier to handle than traditional foam board, installs faster, and a continuous roll minimizes joints versus eight sheets of foam board.
Flex Foam consists of a ½” closed cell polyethylene foam with a reflective facing. The foam reduces thermal bridging while the reflective facing more effectively reduces radiant heat transfer. The result is improved energy efficiency. The product is perforated for better vapor transmission, and it is the ideal choice for retrofit and new construction. Benefits of using Flex Foam include R4.5 to R4.7, effectiveness in hot and humid climates, and use either alone or as part of a wall system.
Like common foam board insulation, Flex Foam also has a simple application. It can be applied directly on the masonry block, providing R-1.6 of continuous insulation. Installed alone using a ¾” cavity and standard drywall, Flex Foam will gain R4.5 for the interior side of the exterior system. Installed alone using a 1-1/2” cavity and standard drywall, Flex Foam will gain R4.7. For projects that require higher R-values, Flex Foam can be installed with companion products AA2 or M Shield to gain R-5.9 with ¾” cavity or R-6.4 with 7/8” cavity.
