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Can I use Styrofoam packaging pieces as insulation?

14

I have a walk in closet that’s 12 feet long. The one wall is an outside wall with a high shelf and a hanger rod underneath the 12 foot length. It is very cold in this closet.

Would it create a problem if I put 2 inch thick pieces of Styrofoam along that one wall?

My clothes would all hang on the rod and sort of hold the large pieces of Styrofoam in place.

2 Answers

4

Exposed styrofoam could be a fire-spreading hazard. I know that when installed permanently it must be behind a barrier material, typically wallboard or plywood, for that reason. For loose pieces... well, the hazard still exists, but I don't think code forbids you piling up the stuff if you want to do so.

3

Assuming the wall is framed 2x4 construction, cellulose insulation can be blown into each wall cavity, insulating and air-sealing much better than foam board attached to the inner wall.


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Can I use Styrofoam packaging pieces as insulation?

14

I have a walk in closet that’s 12 feet long. The one wall is an outside wall with a high shelf and a hanger rod underneath the 12 foot length. It is very cold in this closet.

Would it create a problem if I put 2 inch thick pieces of Styrofoam along that one wall?

My clothes would all hang on the rod and sort of hold the large pieces of Styrofoam in place.


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9

Exposed styrofoam could be a fire-spreading hazard. I know that when installed permanently it must be behind a barrier material, typically wallboard or plywood, for that reason. For loose pieces... well, the hazard still exists, but I don't think code forbids you piling up the stuff if you want to do so.

edit

It's not just how fast a fire spreads, but what kind of smoke it makes. Plastics make very toxic smoke that incapacitates & kills faster than smoke from wood products and natural fibers. - Wayne Conrad Feb 6 at 16:08

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