Our architectural EPS products are unique. They are considered a preferable alternative to other products like precast concrete, wood, and GFRC, yet they are extremely lightweight and affordable – so much so that they can be used to decorate more modest residential housing, something that architects were typically unable to do as a result of cost and installation constraints.
But many of those architectural products (GFRC, precast, etc.) are used in commercial properties. Our custom architectural foam shapes are so lightweight, it’s not uncommon for those new to the material to wonder if they are strong enough to withstand the abuse of commercial properties.
Quick answer, yes, absolutely. Contact us if you’d like to speak to one of our sales team members, or read on to learn more about why they are a perfectly reasonable choice.
Composition and Properties Enhancing Durability
The durability of cement coated EPS foam shapes is intrinsically linked to their composition. The EPS core offers structural lightness and effective insulation. Its inherent stability and resistance to moisture prevent degradation over time. If you’ve ever tried to squeeze Styrofoam, which also uses polystyrene, you’ve probably noticed that it is very strong to the touch.
What makes it especially durable, however, is the cement coating. The outer cement layer is not only made with a strong cement, but the cement itself is reinforced. This imparts significant robustness and resistance to environmental factors. This coating shields the EPS core from physical damage and exposure to elements, thus enhancing the overall durability of the shape. As a result, our architectural EPS has many advantages that include, but are not limited to –
- Resistance to Environmental Stressors – Cement coated EPS foam shapes withstand exposure to varying weather conditions, including UV radiation, rain, and temperature fluctuations, making them suitable for diverse climatic zones.
- Structural Integrity – The combination of EPS and cement coating ensures that these shapes maintain their form and structural integrity under physical stress, an essential factor in commercial construction where long-term performance is a priority.
- Low Maintenance Requirements – Due to their resilient nature, these foam shapes require minimal maintenance, a significant advantage for commercial properties where maintenance can be both costly and disruptive.
Architectural EPS is also an excellent choice for affordable uniform designs that can be created at scale for larger properties.
Factors Contributing to the Durability in Commercial Settings
Our products can be found on commercial properties throughout the United States and Canada, and we’d love an opportunity to show you more about our work.
However, like most building materials, there are some commercial properties that may not be a suitable fit for this type of EPS. Those are going to be properties that may experience a large amount of physical abuse from customers and those working on the property.
While our reinforced EPS products are highly durable, they are not meant to withstand blunt force. When placed on ground level where pedestrians may make frequent physical contact with the material, it may be better to choose something concrete based to prevent dents.
But off of ground level, or in situations where the commercial property is unlikely to experience much direct physical contact from pedestrians outside, EPS foam core architectural materials remain an outstanding choice.
Learn More from Patterson Whittaker Architectural Profiles
Cement coated EPS foam shapes, when properly installed and maintained, demonstrate considerable longevity. This long-term durability is not only a testament to the material’s inherent qualities but also to its ability to adapt to the evolving demands of commercial property construction.
For anyone that is in need of a better option for their commercial concrete, consider our coated EPS architectural foam shapes present a compelling option for commercial construction, offering a balance of lightweight construction, insulation benefits, and, crucially, enduring durability. Their capacity to meet the stringent demands of commercial building environments makes them a reliable choice for architects and builders focused on longevity and performance.
For further technical details on the durability and application of cement coated EPS foam shapes in commercial construction, do not hesitate to reach out to our team. We are dedicated to providing in-depth information and solutions that align with the high standards and specific needs of the commercial construction industry.
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