All building codes in the USA and Canada specify that plastic insulation (EPS) must be covered by a thermal barrier equivalent to 15 minutes of fire protection in habitable spaces. This is achieved with ½” gypsum board or an equivalent material. Fox Blocks has specific fire testing that proves regular ½” gypsum board with regular drywall screws fastened into the plastic webs remains on the wall for the required 15-minute time period.
Fox Blocks has conducted numerous fastener tests for pull-out strength and shear capacity for various fasteners – screws, ring shank nails and staples into the plastic webs. The recommendation for interior and exterior applications of finish materials is for the use of screws which provide the best holding capacity into the plastic webs or fastening strips in the forms which are identified on each block.
The EPS insulation does not provide any holding capacity for fasteners.