Specify with Confidence – EXPOL
EXPOL is New Zealand’s trusted name in polystyrene insulation, backed by over 45+ years of industry experience, BRANZ appraisals, and a commitment to ongoing R&D and sustainable manufacturing.
Our Technical Team supports you from concept to compliance, with proven methods that optimise slab design for cost-efficiency without compromising thermal performance. With nationwide distribution through merchant networks and a reputation for reliability, EXPOL is the smart choice for architects who demand real performance and real support.
Long-Term Advantages
of Slab Insulation
- No Changes Required in Construction Methods: Simplifies implementation.
- Maintains Performance Over Time: Slab insulation remains effective with no slumping.
- Retrofitting Challenges: Slab insulation must be installed during construction; retrofitting is difficult and costly.
- Enhanced Wall Insulation Performance: When paired with slab edge insulation.
- Reduced Risk of Mould: Warmer slab edges minimise condensation.
- Improved Thermal Performance: Decouples the building from ground temperatures.
- Future-Proofs Homes: Aligns with New Zealand’s emission reduction targets.
Save on Build Costs – Insulate the Slab First
EXPOL’s thermal modelling indicates potential build cost reductions of up to $4,400 on a typical 180m² single-storey home, without compromising on performance or code compliance.
Cost-Saving Strategy Highlights:
- Roof Insulation Reduction: Decrease from R6.6 to R3.3.
- Slab Insulation Enhancement: Increase from R1.5 to R2.0 or higher.
- Overall Savings: Potential savings between $1,600 to $4,400 for a 180m² single-storey home.
Achieve Compliance
and Reduce Costs
Estimated Cost Savings by Climate Zone
* Estimated cost savings are based upon a single story 180m2 home, with cost to build $3,271 + GST / m2. Cost savings are achieved by reducing roof insulation levels and increasing slab insulation levels, using the H1 / AS1 Calculation Method to comply with the New Zealand Building Code.
Go to BRANZ H1 Calculation Tool
EXPOL Online Training Dates
13th June 2025
10am Teams Link
Meeting ID: 475 103 487 907 1
Passcode: Qe342so9
2pm Teams Link
Meeting ID: 462 724 596 146 2
Passcode: Ei9S6XD7

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Technical Resources
Specification Platforms:
MasterSpec
https://masterspec.co.nz/
SmartSpec
https://smartspec.co.nz/
ArchiPro
https://archipro.co.nz/
Technical Guides:
Concrete Floor Solutions Guide
https://www.expol.co.nz/concrete-floor-insulation/?wpdmdl=9158
Technical Guide
https://www.expol.co.nz/resource-centre/?wpdmdl=4221
Design Tools:
Floor & Slab Insulation Calculator
https://www.expol.co.nz/floor-slab-insulation-calculator/
Product Resource Centre
https://www.expol.co.nz/resource-centre/
Calculation Method Resources
- BRANZ Bulletin: https://www.branz.co.nz/pubs/bulletins/bu678/
- BRANZ Bulletin: https://www.branz.co.nz/pubs/bulletins/bu685-insulation-of-concrete-slab-on-ground-floors-less-than-300-m/
- BRANZ H1 Calculation Method Tool: https://www.branz.co.nz/energy-efficiency/h1-calculation-method-tool/
- BRANZ House Insulation Guide: https://www.branz.co.nz/energy-efficiency/house-insulation-guide/
- NZGBC H1 Calculator: https://nzgbc.h1calculator.org.nz/
- Design Navigator H1 Calculator:
https://www.designnavigator.solutions/DNLoginS.php
Contact Our
Technical Team
For assistance with product selection, technical queries,
or project support, contact us:
- Email: tech@expol.co.nz
- Phone: 0800 86 33 73
Build for Today.
Prepare for Tomorrow.
Insulating your slab is a smart, cost effective decision that boosts performance and adds long-term value.
Get it right from the ground up – with EXPOL.
