Material efficient solutions
We can have a significant effect on the carbon footprint of construction by optimizing the use of materials. We need to reduce both the impact of construction and consumption of materials, as that will provide cost savings as well as conserve the environment. For this specific objective, Finnfoam has developed solutions that facilitate the optimal use of construction materials while fully utilizing their technical properties.
SIGNIFICANTLY LOWER EMISSIONS WITH THE RIGHT FROST INSULATION
The replacement of soil has traditionally been one of the work elements with the highest carbon dioxide emissions during the frost insulation of a building. In addition to the actual work, emissions are generated by the removal of the existing soil from the site and the transport of the replacement soil with trucks. The larger the amount of soil to replaced, the larger the carbon footprint of the work and the structure.
However, we can have a significant impact on the carbon dioxide emissions of soil replacement by choosing the right frost insulation. Finnfoam solutions allow you to implement frost insulations more easily, cost-effectively, and energy efficiently.
Due to its excellent thermal insulation capacity, non-compressive properties, and waterproof construction, you can reduce the amount of soil replacement and the insulation material needed by choosing Finnfoam insulation. This means that the carbon footprint of the entire construction stage will be reduced. In addition to reduced emissions during construction, this will also improve the energy efficiency of the building during operation and its entire life-cycle.
RESOURCE EFFICIENCY OFFERS SAVINGS IN VARIOUS AREAS
Construction emissions are calculated in kilograms. The more resource and material efficient construction activities are, the lower the emissions produced. In practice, this means using less materials that are also lighter as well as more energy efficient.
For example, our FF-FLOOR solution was developed precisely for achieving this objective. With the 3D molded insulation product, the amount of concrete used can be reduced by replacing it with the lightweight insulation material that also improves the energy efficiency of the structure.
In the FF-FLOOR solution, concrete is partially replaced with FF-EPS insulation material, which results in a structure that is significantly lighter and cheaper and has a smaller carbon footprint than traditional floor structures. The price of the FF-EPS material used as thermal insulation per cubic meter is just 50 percent of that of concrete. The weight saved due to the reduced consumption of concrete is also significant, as the FF-EPS insulation material weighs just 20 kg/m3 whereas concrete weighs 2 200 kg/m3.
Naturally, replacing concrete with insulation also improves the thermal insulation capacity of the floor structure, thus reducing the size of the carbon footprint and living costs throughout its life-cycle compared to regular floor solutions.
INSULATE MORE EFFECTIVELY WHILE USING LESS MATERIAL
Tightening energy efficiency requirements have created a growing need for thermal insulation materials offering safe and effective moisture performance that allow the structural thickness to remain at a reasonable level and offer good fire performance.
Such high-quality insulation products allow for more effective insulation while using less material. This is at the core of material efficiency and the very thing we wish to promote with our solutions at Finnfoam.
Finnfoam’s FF-PIR thermal insulation products offer effective insulation even when the insulation layers are thin. The benefits are obvious particularly in new construction, as effective use of space is key to successful new builds. Thinner structures allow you to eliminate wasted space, thus ensuring that the entire surface area of the building can be utilized effectively – without any compromise on thermal insulation.
