Unlike aluminized zinc/zinc-coated sheets, extruded polystyrene (XPS) and polyurethane (PU) boards are two common organic insulation materials used in construction.

The main difference between them lies in that the insulation performance of polyurethane boards is significantly better than that of XPS, but the price is also higher; while XPS performs better in terms of compressive strength, water resistance and cost-effectiveness.

 

To facilitate your quick comparison, I have listed the main differences between them as follows:

Core performance comparison

 

1. Basic composition

Extruded board: Made mainly from polystyrene resin, it is formed through extrusion process.

Polyurethane board: With polyurethane rigid foam as the insulation core material, it is usually a sandwich composite board with two layers of metal plates (such as color steel plates) on both sides.

2. Thermal conductivity (the lower the better)

Extruded polystyrene board: Low, usually around 0.020 – 0.030 W/(m·K).

Polyurethane board: Extremely low, usually in the range of 0.018 – 0.023 W/(m·K), and is one of the best insulating materials among organic insulation materials at present.

3. Compressive strength

Extruded board: Very high, with a wide range (150 – 1400 kPa), particularly suitable for high-load scenarios such as floors and parking lots.

Polyurethane board: Relatively high, with a compressive strength typically ≥ 160 kPa.

4. Moisture-proof and water-absorbing property

Extruded board: Excellent. The closed-cell ratio exceeds 99%, and the water absorption rate is extremely low (<1%). It maintains stable performance even under long-term damp conditions.

Polyurethane board: Outstanding. The closed-cell ratio exceeds 95%, and it is water-resistant and moisture-proof.

5. Fire Resistance Rating

Both can reach B1 level (non-flammable materials). It should be noted that the specific grade of the product depends on the production process and the addition of flame retardants. When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm the test report.

6. Service Life

Extruded board: Under normal use, its lifespan can reach 30 to 50 years.

Polyurethane board: With normal use and maintenance, the average lifespan can also exceed 30 years.

7. Market price

Extruded board: relatively low cost and good value for money.

Polyurethane board: higher cost, but its excellent insulation properties can save long-term energy consumption costs.

 

Detailed Explanation of Key Differences and Selection Suggestions

Which material to choose entirely depends on your core requirements:

 

1. If the company is seeking the highest level of insulation performance and has sufficient budget → We recommend using polyurethane boards.

Reasons for recommendation: Their thermal conductivity is the lowest, which means thinner boards can achieve better insulation and heat preservation effects. They are particularly suitable for buildings with extremely high energy-saving requirements, constant temperature and humidity spaces, and renovation projects with strict thickness limitations.

 

2. If we are dealing with floors, roofs, high-pressure resistance scenarios, or emphasizing moisture prevention → The preferred material is extruded polystyrene board.

Reasons for recommendation: The compressive strength of extruded polystyrene board is much higher than that of polyurethane board. It is an ideal choice for floor heating insulation layers, parking lot floors, airport runways, and cold storage floors. Its nearly water-repellent property also ensures stable performance in extremely humid environments such as basements and foundations.

 

3. If the company aims to control project costs and seeks high cost-effectiveness → We recommend extruded polystyrene board

Reasons for recommendation: Under the condition of achieving similar insulation effect, the overall cost of extruded polystyrene board is usually lower than that of polyurethane board. For large-scale projects or projects with sensitive budgets, it is a very economical and reliable choice.

 

Summary and Reminders

 

In simple terms, polyurethane boards are the “champion of insulation”, while extruded polystyrene boards are the “masters of resisting pressure and moisture”. You can make a preliminary judgment based on this core impression.

 

Finally, it is necessary to remind you that as organic insulation materials, both of them must be given due attention to fire safety during construction and selection. Make sure to purchase products that meet the B1 level or higher fire safety standards, and strictly follow the construction specifications.

 

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