Is it allowed to insulate a house from aerated blocks with polystyrene foam? I show what can happen to him in 3 years

  • Apr 01, 2021
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I think it's not worth talking about the popularity of aerated concrete - today it is used everywhere and always. This material is aerated concrete and is of three types:

  • Foam concrete;
  • Gas silicate;
  • Aerated concrete.
All three types of aerated concrete retain temperature well. In their structure, there are pores filled with air, which act as a heat insulator.

The safety of aerated concrete is due to the fact that during operation it does not emit harmful substances into the atmosphere. In addition, it is lightweight, easy to install, does not place a heavy load on the foundation.

Does aerated concrete need insulation?

According to some builders, aerated concrete must be insulated, otherwise it will freeze through. Moisture will accumulate in the pores of the gas blocks, which will turn into ice in frost. With the onset of warmth, the ice will begin to melt, while destroying the aerated concrete.

Nowadays, many people prefer foam, using it as insulation. Gas blocks can also be insulated with penoplex, however, for this it is necessary to make a good internal vapor barrier. Otherwise, the walls will be damp, covered with mold and mildew from the inside.
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Advantages of aerated concrete insulation with foam:

  • 1. The facade is beautiful and very durable.
  • 2. Household heating costs are reduced.
  • 3. Styrofoam provides good sound insulation.
  • 4. Insulation can be done at any stage of building a house.

When choosing the thickness of the foam, you should rely on the structure and thickness of the walls. If the latter is half a brick, then you need to use more insulation. You also need to pay attention to the quality of the glue and fasteners used.

A friend of mine built a house from 200 mm aerated concrete. He insulated all the walls with a 50 mm layer of polystyrene, making the layer thicker on the north side - 100 mm.

After 3 years, he wanted to check how the foam felt. He tore a piece off the wall where the bathroom is. Although this room is the wettest in the house, the acquaintance did not see any moisture or mold. I note that his home is not equipped with ventilation, he just regularly opens the windows for ventilation. In all rooms, the humidity is 50% or more, while only warm floors bring heat into the house.
Image source: service: Yandex Pictures

Why didn't dampness and moisture build up on the walls under the insulation? First, there are no severe frosts in his region. Secondly, before making the insulation, the house stood for about six months, and therefore the gas blocks had time to dry out.

The fastening was also competently done, the joints between the foam plates were blown out with foam.

In regions where frosts reach -40 degrees, foam insulation can give different results. Especially if you glue it to damp blocks and leave gaps.

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