What is better for insulation of the door frame: mineral wool or expanded polystyrene

Choosing a metal front door, very few people pay attention to the type of insulation of the door frame and the door leaf. But it directly depends on how comfortable the air temperature in the apartment and the effectiveness of sound insulation will be.

Mineral wool has been used as a heater for many years. This is a fibrous material of universal application made from metallurgical waste and mineral compounds. Mineral wool has many advantages over other heat insulators, providing it with well-deserved recognition among builders.

Expanded polystyrene (polystyrene) is a polymeric material capable of withstanding the effects of low temperatures and high humidity. It has high thermal insulation properties. At the same time, polystyrene is flammable and brittle.

Choosing a door with one or another type of insulation, it is worth exploring in more detail the main characteristics of the materials. These include thermal insulation, cost, vapor permeability, environmental friendliness and fire safety.

With the same thickness of materials, the thermal insulation ability of materials has equal performance. However, unlike polystyrene foam, mineral wool loses its heat-insulating properties when wet. At the same time, the soundproofing characteristics of the foam are lower than that of mineral wool.

Comparison of the price of materials is not in favor of cotton wool. Its price is several times higher than that of polystyrene.

Unlike foam, mineral wool has high vapor permeability. It is able to pass moisture and air through its structure, preventing the formation of condensation and moisture on the door. On the inner surface of the door leaf and door frames insulated with foam, even frost may form in the winter.

Mineral wool is made from non-combustible materials. In a fire, it does not even melt, which can not be said about the foam. Despite the manufacturers' assurances, it ignites even under short-term exposure to high temperature.

Both mineral wool and polystyrene cannot be called environmentally friendly materials. Phenolic additives are used to make cotton wool, but their volatility fits into sanitary standards and is not dangerous to humans. Styrene is used to make the foam. In contact with air and exposure to heat, it is released from the base material. Therefore, such doors can not be installed in the apartment. They are more suitable for non-residential buildings - sheds or garages.