Fiberglass Insulation Board vs Foam Board (2025): Cost, R-Value & Energy Efficiency

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1. What is Fiberglass Insulation Board?

  • Made from spun glass fibers pressed into rigid boards.

  • High thermal resistance (R-value).

  • Fire-resistant, moisture-resistant, widely used in HVAC systems, walls, and industrial equipment.

GTOFRP Fiberglass Insulation Boards


2. What is Foam Board Insulation?

  • Made from polystyrene (XPS/EPS) or polyisocyanurate (PIR).

  • High compressive strength, low weight.

  • Often used in roofing, foundation walls, and below-grade insulation.


3. Cost Comparison (2025)

MaterialAverage Cost (per sq. ft)Installation CostLifespan
Fiberglass Insulation Board$0.70 – $1.20Low–Medium25–30 years
Foam Board (XPS/EPS/PIR)$1.20 – $2.50Medium–High30–40 years

Insight: Fiberglass is cheaper upfront, while foam board costs more but offers higher compressive strength.


4. Energy Efficiency (R-Value Comparison)

MaterialR-Value per InchPerformance in MoistureFire Resistance
Fiberglass Insulation BoardR-4.2 – R-4.5Good (if sealed properly)Excellent
Foam Board (XPS/EPS)R-5.0 – R-6.5Better moisture resistanceModerate

Conclusion: Foam board performs better in thin applications where higher R-value is required, but fiberglass is better for fire safety & industrial use.


5. Best Applications

Fiberglass Insulation Board

  • HVAC ductwork

  • Commercial walls and ceilings

  • Industrial furnaces, boilers, and piping

Foam Board

  • Residential roofing and exterior walls

  • Foundation insulation

  • Cold storage & refrigeration


6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Using fiberglass board in high-moisture underground areas.

  • ❌ Using foam board in high-temperature applications (it can degrade).

  • ❌ Ignoring fire codes – fiberglass is fire-safe, foam may require fire-resistant coating.


7. Conclusion – Which Should You Choose?

  • Choose Fiberglass Insulation Board if you need cost efficiency, fire resistance, and industrial-grade insulation.

  • Choose Foam Board if you need higher R-value, thinner layers, and moisture resistance.

Explore our GTOFRP Fiberglass Insulation Solutions for industrial and commercial projects.