What are waffle pods?

Waffle pods are an innovative way to construct concrete slabs. Made from expanded polystyrene beads, they are used to create a void in concrete slabs to reduce construction costs and the amount of concrete consumed. They also help to improve energy insulation and achieve other building cost efficiencies.

Are waffle pod slabs effective in their purpose?

Waffle pods slabs are very effective on non-reactive sites, slightly reactive clay sites and some moderately reactive clay sites. If you are building on highly reactive clay sites and other problem sites, waffle pods are not recommended.

What are the benefits of a waffle pod slab system?

There are numerous benefits when using a concrete waffle pod slab including; reduced labour cost and reduced concrete consumption. Waffle pods are also 100% recyclable and most manufacturers will offer a collection and recycling service for the customers.

Is a waffle pod slab cheaper than conventional raft slabs?

Due to the reduction in concrete and the labour required to install a waffle pod slab, it is significantly cheaper than a regular concrete raft slab. However each slab has its own advantages and considerations should be made for site classification and building designs.

Are there different waffle pod products and sizes?

Waffle pods are manufactured in the same width and length dimensions, however there are various heights that they can be produced in. Waffle pod sizes most commonly include; 150mm, 225mm and 300mm. The height and size of the waffle pod is determined by a slab design, produced by an engineer. For more information see product brochure.

ACHIEVING 7-STAR NATHERS RATINGS

Understanding how expanded polystyrene helps drive energy performance of new dwellings.

With the cost of living continuing to rise, the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) has increased the minimum requirement of seven stars (out of a possible ten) for all new dwellings.

As a result, it is important to understand and implement insulation solutions that help make future homes more energy efficient.

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) waffle pods significantly outperform alternative technologies in this field. It is projected that EPS insulation can reduce the potential carbon dioxide emissions of a new dwelling by up to 50% - providing underlying value to builders, homeowners and the environment.

The Science of Thermal Insulation in EPS Waffle Pods

Closed-Cell Structure: The Key to Insulation Success

EPS waffle pods are predominately made by air trapped within a closed-cell structure. This unique composition is the foundation of their impressive thermal insulation properties:

Air, being a poor thermal conductor, creates countless tiny barriers against heat transfer.
The closed-cell structure prevents air movement, further enhancing insulation performance.
Low Thermal Conductivity: Quantifying the Insulation Power EPS typically has a thermal conductivity (λ-value) ranging from 0.033 to 0.035 W/mK.
This low conductivity translates to high thermal resistance, making EPS waffle pods extremely effective at reducing heat flow through building foundations.
R-Value Enhancement: Measurable Insulation Improvement Waffle pod slabs can add R-values of 0.57 to 0.65, depending on pod height (170mm to 370mm).
In practical terms, incorporating EPS pods into a slab design can contribute up to R1.0 (w/mK thermal resistance) to the overall insulation profile.

Thermal Performance in Real-World Applications

Temperature Stabilization EPS waffle pods create a thermal barrier, significantly reducing heat transfer between the ground and the building interior. EPS insulation also provides similar insulative properties when used in walls.
This stabilisation effect helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures, reducing the load on high-energy consumption, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
Ground Moisture Insulation Beyond thermal insulation, EPS waffle pods provide an effective barrier against ground moisture.
This dual benefit enhances the overall thermal performance by preventing moisture-related heat loss.
Long-Term Thermal Performance Unlike some insulation materials, EPS maintains its thermal properties over time, ensuring consistent performance throughout the building's lifespan.

Conclusion: Thermal Excellence Through Innovation

Expanded polystyrene waffle pods offer compelling benefits to various construction stakeholders. The unrivalled properties of expanded polystyrene as a material, help achieve sustainable building practices, in line with the increasingly strict requirements set out in the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NATHERS). By understanding and leveraging these properties, you can deliver projects that meet and exceed energy performance expectations.

Implementing EPS waffle pods allows you to:

Significantly improve the thermal resistance of building foundations
Contribute to overall energy efficiency goals
Provide long-lasting insulation performance

Conn Nicomede26 August 2024NicsonsBP