Expanded Polystyrene Sheets, a key solution
EPS expanded polystyrene vaults have established themselves as a key solution in the construction of one-way slabs thanks to their lightness, ease of installation and excellent thermal properties. Especially in areas such as Mallorca, where climatic conditions and energy efficiency criteria are increasingly demanding, the use of technologically advanced construction materials makes a real difference in the final quality of the building.
In this article we analyse the technical advantages of using EPS vaults, their construction applications and the key recommendations that professionals in the sector should bear in mind.
What are Expanded Polystyrene Roof Sheets?
Expanded polystyrene sheets are prefabricated pieces that are used as lightweight elements in one-way slab systems. In contrast to traditional concrete or ceramic vaults, EPS vaults are extremely light and non-structural, which facilitates their handling on site and significantly reduces the total weight of the slab.
At Polivas, we manufacture EPS vaults from a material composed of more than 97% air, which makes them not only an efficient solution from a technical point of view, but also sustainable and recyclable.
Advantages of Expanded Polystyrene Hollows
EPS Hollows offer multiple benefits that make them ideal for both residential and industrial projects:
1. Structural lightness
They reduce the permanent loads of the floor slab, which translates into less need for steel and concrete and more economical foundations.
2. Thermal insulation
Thanks to the low thermal conductivity of EPS (λ ≈ 0.035 W/m-K), the vaults contribute to improving the energy efficiency of the building, reducing thermal losses.
3. Ease of installation
Its low weight allows for quick, safe installation without heavy auxiliary means, optimising construction time and execution costs.
4. Compatibility with different systems
They are compatible with pre-stressed joists, in-situ concrete systems and semi-industrialised solutions.
5. Sustainability and recyclability
EPS is a 100% recyclable material, and at Polivas we are committed to environmentally friendly manufacturing processes.
Constructive applications of Expanded Polystyrene Sheets
Expanded polystyrene hollow bricks are mainly used in:
- Sanitary slabs and mezzanine floors.
- Flat roofs with built-in insulation.ç
- Refurbishment works where it is necessary to lighten the existing structure.
- Passivhaus or NZEB projects, which require solutions with high thermal performance.
In all these cases, EPS vaults not only comply with the requirements of the Technical Building Code (CTE), but also contribute to achieving optimum levels of energy efficiency.
Technical considerations for planners and site management
When prescribing EPS vaults in a project, it is advisable:
- Verify the required thermal resistance according to the climatic zone and use of the building.
- Check compatibility with joist systems and support details.
- Ensure fire protection, according to DB-SI and project requirements.
- Evaluate the compressive strength of the EPS according to the intended use load.
- Require CE marking and manufacturer’s certification, as a guarantee of product quality.
At Polivas, we accompany the prescribing technician with technical data sheets, construction details and personalised technical support to integrate our EPS solutions at any stage of the project.
Conclusion on EPS floor slabs
Expanded polystyrene floor slabs represent an intelligent evolution in the way floor slabs are built. Their combination of lightness, insulation and ease of installation makes them a technically and economically high-performance solution. In environments such as Majorca, where thermal control and sustainability are becoming increasingly important, this type of floor slab offers a comprehensive response to market demands. If you are working on a new project or planning a refurbishment, contact us to integrate high quality and high performance expanded polystyrene vaults.