Will Adhesive Damage My Polystyrene Shower Wall?

Identification

• Polystyrene insulating panels are typically placed in walls, ceilings, floors and roofs. According to the United States Department of Energy, polystyrene insulated panels have high R-values and add strength to the wall where they are installed. Once polystyrene insulating panels are installed, adhesives glue them in place. In most areas, these insulating panels must be covered with drywall to comply with building codes.

Effects

• Placing polystyrene insulating panels in your shower and bathroom walls will keep your home at a comfortable temperature and air-tight. When homes are well insulated with these panels, outside noise is also reduced. Polystyrene insulating panels are most effective when installed properly. For maximum benefits, homeowners should hire a contractor to install these panels.

Installation

• Polystyrene insulating panels can be cut to fit your wall by the manufacturer. Once the panels are in place, there should be no gaps in insulation coverage and panels must be pressed together tightly. Adhesives are then applied to hold panels in place and drywall is hung over the panels. These products are manufactured to hold insulation in place and will not deteriorate or cause damage to the polystyrene panel.

Considerations

• When placing insulation in humid areas such as bathroom walls, steps must be taken to avoid moisture damage. Placing a vapor barrier on the exterior shower wall will slow down moisture when it evaporates through shower walls. Applying thick layers of paint on your bathroom walls will work as an effective vapor barrier and prevent moisture damage to your polystyrene panels.