What is a common application for rigid polystyrene insulation?

Rigid polystyrene insulation is widely utilized for insulating concrete footings and walls due to its excellent thermal resistance and moisture resistance properties. This type of insulation is particularly effective in preventing heat transfer, making it ideal for application in foundations and basement walls, where maintaining thermal performance is crucial for energy efficiency and comfort within a structure.

Using rigid polystyrene in these areas helps protect against heat loss in colder climates and moisture intrusion, which can lead to structural issues over time. Its ability to withstand high compressive loads also makes it suitable for supporting the weight of a building's structure above.

While it can also be used in other applications, such as insulating HVAC ducts or roofs, the primary effectiveness and benefits of rigid polystyrene are most pronounced in its use for concrete footings and walls. This is due to the combination of factors that make it particularly well-suited for such applications.