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At MAK Consulting, we strive to deliver not just the best quality materials but also value for our clients. Today, we want to share a unique case study that highlights how even products that seem challenging to transport—like EPS insulation—can offer significant savings when sourced from Poland.
We’ll also explore the advantages of grey, highly efficient EPS insulation, its applications in Poland and mainland Europe, and how it compares to the cavity wall insulation commonly used in the UK and Ireland.
The Case Study: EPS Insulation Order to Ireland
A recent order from one of our Irish clients involved grey EPS insulation (expanded polystyrene), adhesives, render, and render mesh. At first glance, shipping such a high-volume product seemed costly, as transport expenses often increase significantly for bulky items.
Here’s the breakdown:
- EPS Order Cost in Poland (incl. VAT): €2,000
- Logistics Costs to Ireland: €1,800
- Total Delivered Price: €3,800
- Local Irish Price: €5,000
Despite the high transport costs, the client saved 24% (approx. €1,200) compared to sourcing the same materials locally in Ireland.
The real game-changer? Combining deliveries from four separate manufacturers into one shipment:
- EPS insulation from one producer.
- Adhesives from another supplier.
- Render and render mesh from two additional manufacturers.
This order demonstrated the value of working with MAK Consulting. By consolidating shipments and optimizing logistics, we made what seemed impossible not only feasible but also cost-effective.
What is EPS Insulation?
EPS (Expanded Polystyrene) insulation is a lightweight, rigid, and durable material used widely for thermal insulation. Grey EPS, which is infused with graphite particles, offers higher thermal efficiency than standard white EPS. The graphite reflects and absorbs radiant heat, improving insulation performance by up to 20%.
Why Choose Grey EPS?
- Thermal Efficiency: Lower U-value, making it ideal for meeting stringent energy efficiency standards.
- Moisture Resistance: Resistant to water absorption, ensuring long-term performance.
- Lightweight and Easy to Handle: Perfect for large-scale projects.
- Eco-Friendly: Fully recyclable and energy-efficient during production.
How EPS Insulation is Used in Poland and Mainland Europe
In Poland and mainland Europe, EPS is the go-to solution for external wall insulation (EWI) systems, known as ETICS (External Thermal Insulation Composite System). Here’s how it’s typically used:
- Directly Applied to External Walls: EPS boards are adhered to the exterior surface, then covered with render to create a weather-resistant, insulated finish.
- Energy Efficiency Goals: Essential for achieving high energy efficiency in both new builds and retrofits.
- Regulations-Driven: Many EU countries, including Poland, have strict building energy standards, making EPS a preferred material for reducing heat loss.
EPS vs. Cavity Wall Insulation (UK and Ireland)
The insulation methods in Poland and mainland Europe differ significantly from those in the UK and Ireland. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | EPS Insulation (Poland/Europe) | Cavity Wall Insulation (UK/Ireland) |
|---|---|---|
| Application | External walls (ETICS) | Injected into the cavity between brickwork. |
| Thermal Performance | More efficient due to continuous insulation layer. | Dependent on cavity size and fill quality. |
| Aesthetics | Can be finished with render or decorative cladding. | No visible change to the building exterior. |
| Moisture Resistance | High resistance with proper installation. | Potential issues if moisture bridges occur. |
| Energy Efficiency | Meets stricter energy codes in mainland Europe. | Suited for existing buildings but less efficient for new builds. |
The ETICS method used with EPS provides a seamless insulation layer, reducing thermal bridging and improving overall energy efficiency compared to cavity wall systems.
Why Choose MAK Consulting for EPS Insulation?
At MAK Consulting, we pride ourselves on delivering tailored solutions to meet our clients’ needs. Here’s why sourcing EPS insulation through us makes sense:
- Competitive Pricing: Even with logistics costs, our pricing often beats local suppliers.
- Consolidated Deliveries: We combine products from multiple manufacturers into one shipment, saving you time and money.
- Expert Guidance: Unsure about the best insulation for your project? Our team offers expert advice to help you choose the right product.
- Streamlined Ordering Process: With our EasyBuyingGuide and online store, ordering from Poland has never been easier.
What’s Next?
This case study is a perfect example of how MAK Consulting goes the extra mile to ensure value for our clients. Whether you’re looking for EPS insulation, adhesives, or other materials, we’re here to make the process seamless.
💬 Get in Touch: Have a project in mind? Contact us today to discuss how we can help you save money and get the best materials for your build.