Antistatic Polystyrene Eps (APE) is a clear, thick, rigid plastic sheet that is often used in construction to insulate the entire building and to act as a protective layer against heat and cold. It is a much cheaper alternative to Roly Poly (RPS), which is stronger but also has to be treated for indoor and outdoor use. The reason it is cheaper and easier to use is that it has no sticky protective layer and because it expands easily from freezing and thawing. It also contains no toxic or chemical fumes making it safe to breathe. Because of these characteristics, it has been commonly used as roofing shingles, insulation, and fire blankets.
Because of its ability to expand and contract, the APE can be used in a multitude of different applications. This flexible sheet is made up of two layers, a thick protective layer on one side and a thinner protective layer on the other side. The sheets are used as roofing materials or as insulation for the home or building. Some residential roofing shingles have an antistatic foam protective layer that prevents moisture from penetrating the roof into the structure and the home or the individual spaces.
When purchasing the material, it is critical to make sure that the sheet you choose is specifically designed for use in roofing or other applications. Many suppliers sell the material sheets with an optional protective additive or coating that can be used directly on the roof. When purchasing this type of product, you will want to make sure that the sheet you purchase has been treated for roof and attic use. If you are unsure, contact a manufacturer to find out exactly what kind of protection is included. You should also read the label carefully to make sure that the additive has been pre-certified for roof and attic use.
