Geofoam

The material you choose during your construction process can make a huge difference. This is especially true when you look below the surface. EPS Geofoam from CMI offers a smart, lightweight alternative to traditional fill materials like gravel and soil. Whether you’re working on a road, bridge, landscaping feature, or building project, EPS foam helps you build efficiently.

What Is Geofoam Used For?

Geofoam is a very versatile building material. It’s made from expanded polystyrene (EPS) and can be used in many different types of projects. A few of the more common ways to use it include:

Roadway Embankments & Bridge Approaches
Foundation Fill for Buildings & Structures
Retaining Wall Backfill
Airport Runways & Rail Embankments
Stadium Seating & Themed Structures
Landscaping & Green Infrastructure Projects

Geofoam is so lightweight and easy to work with. So, it helps reduce construction time, equipment needs, and more without compromising strength.

Why Choose EPS Geofoam?

Contractors and engineers love Geofoam for a few key reasons:

Extremely Lightweight: EPS Geofoam is up to 100 times lighter than soil. So, it’s easier to move and use than soil or gravel.
Engineered Strength: It gives you stable support that won’t shift or settle.
Design Flexibility: EPS Foam is easy to shape, cut, and stack. So it works well for complex and custom designs.
Faster Installation: There’s no need for heavy compaction equipment or long curing/settling times since geofoam doesn’t need either.
Moisture-Resistant & Durable: Geofoam is water resistant and doesn’t mold, decay, or attract pests.

Plus, EPS Geofoam is easy to transport and store, helping projects stay on time and on budget.

Geofoam Testimonials

“Quick response whenever we send out an order or have questions. Really helpful and give us all updates regarding the order process.”

Hoa Truong
The Packager

“Gentlemen, Over the years, Devon Swenson and his team have never let me down. You guys have always given me a great product for a fair price. I started working with Devon back in 2008. Not too long thereafter, the transition in the family business was being initiated. From my perspective, the plan was implemented smoothly and successfully. I can honestly recommend CMI to anyone that is in need of your services.”

Scot Barlow
Pre-Construction Team
Rimrock Construction

“Our experience with CMI and you in particular has been exceptional. You are always available and responsive to our needs. You are helpful with on-the-fly developments and always eager to help us resolve issues. CMI pricing has always been competitive and the value is evident there. Thanks for your relationship and help whenever we call.”

Tyler Brinkman
Rubicon Contractors

Product Highlights:

Predictable material behavior due to dimensionally stable properties
Lightweight fill weighing approximately 1/100th the weight of soil
Speed & ease of use provides time and labor savings
Value engineering available to provide custom sizes and layouts
Integrated termite protection available for additional protection
Limited 10-year warranty

Common Uses for GeoFoam. See more pictures at geofoam.com

Bridge Abutments
Retaining Structures
Soil Stabilization
Built-up Slabs
Embankments
Stadium Seating
Berms and Land Forming
Plaza Decks

Example Application

ASD Elementary

17,640 cubic feet of EPS 29 Geofoam was installed to construct an ADA compliant access ramp leading to the entrance of the school.

Geofoam replaced 105 lbs. per cubic foot of gravel. In total Geofoam reduced 1.8 million lbs. of weight minimizing lateral pressure on 16’ tall concrete walls.

Location

Saratoga Springs, Utah

December 2020

Architect

VCBO Architecture

Contractor

Hogan & Associates Construction Inc.

Kenny Seng Construction Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions About Geofoam

Is Geofoam strong enough for structural projects?

While geofoam (expanded polystyrene, EPS) is not used as a primary load-bearing material like steel or concrete, it is engineered to provide structural support in several critical ways such as supporting roadways and buildings.

Can Geofoam be used in areas with poor soil conditions?

Absolutely. Geofoam is great for reducing loads on weak soils and minimizing settlement. It can help distribute weight evenly and can be placed directly over soft ground. So, it’s a great solution for areas that are otherwise difficult to build on.

Does EPS Geofoam absorb water?

Geofoam is moisture-resistant, not moisture-absorbing. However, it should still be protected from long-term exposure to groundwater with proper drainage and waterproofing systems. This is especially true for installations below grade.

Is Geofoam environmentally friendly?

Yes. EPS Geofoam is non-toxic. So, it won’t leach harmful chemicals into soil or water. It’s also recyclable and because it’s lightweight, it means less emissions from transporting it.

For all of your EPS Geofoam needs, be sure to choose the experts at CMI Insulation.