Problems with Foam Board Insulation

The Problems with Foam Board Insulation & Why Prodex Total Is Better


Why Rigid Insulation Boards May Not Be the Best Choice


Many homeowners and builders rely on foam board insulation (also called rigid insulation, rigid board insulation, or rigid building insulation) to improve energy

efficiency. However, these panels come with significant drawbacks that impact thermal performance and moisture control.


Below, we discuss the two biggest problems with foam board insulation and why Prodex Total Insulation is a better solution.


For a complete guide on choosing the best insulation for your home, check out "The Ultimate Guide to House Insulation".




1. Foam Board Insulation is Too Rigid to Seal Gaps


Why Rigidity is a Problem


Rigid insulation boards lack flexibility, making them difficult to install on surfaces that aren’t perfectly flat.


Problems Caused by Poor Sealing


  • Air Leakage – Gaps between insulation boards allow air to escape, reducing energy efficiency.
  • Moisture Infiltration – Unsealed gaps lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot.
  • Reduced R-Value – Over time, foam board insulation becomes less effective in maintaining indoor temperatures.

How Prodex Total Insulation Solves This Issue


Flexible & Adjustable: Unlike rigid insulation, Prodex Total is a roll insulation that conforms to any surface, sealing cracks and gaps.
True Vapor Barrier: Prevents moisture buildup and eliminates condensation risks.
Consistent R-Value: Maintains performance regardless of humidity levels.




2. Rigid Insulation Does Not Block Radiant Heat Transfer


Why Radiant Heat is the Main Cause of Energy Loss


Most insulation solutions focus on conduction and convection heat transfer, but radiant heat accounts for up to 75% of heat loss.

  • In Summer: The sun’s radiant heat penetrates walls, making air conditioners work harder.
  • In Winter: Heat escapes through walls, increasing heating costs.

Why Foam Board Insulation Fails Against Radiant Heat


Rigid insulation does not reflect heat – It only slows down conductive heat.

Higher energy bills – More strain on HVAC systems due to lack of radiant heat protection.



How Prodex Total Insulation Outperforms Rigid Insulation Boards


Reflects 97% of Radiant Heat: Keeps buildings cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Increases HVAC Efficiency: Reduces heating and cooling cycles, prolonging HVAC lifespan.
Prevents Heat Loss: Improves indoor comfort, minimizing hot and cold spots.




Foam Board Insulation Fails on Uneven Walls


Why Rigid Insulation Doesn’t Work Well in Basements


Many basements and crawlspaces have uneven surfaces where foam board insulation struggles to create a tight seal.


Common Problems with Rigid Board Insulation in Basements


Gaps & Air Pockets – Prevents proper insulation coverage.
Moisture Penetration – Can lead to mold, mildew, and decay.
Condensation Issues – Moisture can wick up from the foundation, causing damage over time.



Why Prodex Total is the Best Choice for Basements & Crawlspaces


Flexible and Adapts to Contours: Unlike rigid insulation boards, Prodex conforms to the shape of your walls, preventing air and moisture infiltration.
Superior Vapor Barrier: Blocks moisture from entering your home, reducing mold and mildew risks.
Prevents Foundation Rot: Keeps walls dry and protects against long-term structural damage.




How Prodex Total Compares to Foam Board Insulation


FeatureFoam Board InsulationProdex Total Insulation
Flexibility❌ Rigid, difficult to install✅ Flexible, adapts to any surface
Radiant Heat Reflection❌ No protection✅ Reflects 97% of radiant heat
Vapor Barrier❌ Limited moisture control✅ True vapor barrier
Mold Resistance❌ Can retain moisture✅ Prevents mold and mildew growth
Ease of Installation❌ Requires cutting & sealing✅ Roll-out design for easy install



Looking for a Better Alternative to Foam Board Insulation?


Don’t settle for outdated rigid insulation boards that fail to seal gaps or block radiant heat. Prodex Total Insulation is the superior choice for homeowners, builders, and contractors looking for:


Higher Energy Efficiency: Reduces energy waste, lowering utility bills. Better Moisture Control: Prevents condensation, mold, and mildew. Easier Installation: Simple roll-out design requires minimal labor. Long-Term Durability: Maintains performance over time, withstanding harsh conditions.


👉 Shop Prodex Total Now
Alternative to Foam Board Insulation For Sale - Prodex Total
10M Plus: R22

Thickness: 10mm (0.4") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced reflective foil. Twice as thick. Increased R. More strength. Better install.

5M Plus: R17

Select one of these 5M items: 48 inch, Fast Action, 72 inch, 24 inch or 16 inch. Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam covered on both sides with reinforced reflective foil. 

WHITE 5M Plus: R15.3

Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective reinforced foil on one side and plastic white finish film on the other side. Ideal where white finish is preferred.

RUSTIC 5M R15

Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reinforced foil on one side and wood finish facer on the other side. Decorate while you insulate.

UNDER CONCRETE 5M

Thickness: 5mm (0.2") closed cell polyethylene foam with reflective on one side.

Ideal for driveways, radiant floor and basements.

ACOUSTIC Insulation 24 inch and 16 inch

Thickness: 2-1/2". Low emittance foil finish on both sides of glass mineral wool. Provides MAXIMUM thermal and acoustic comfort.

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