Commercial construction projects benefit from materials that deliver multiple functions without compromising performance. Foamed glass aggregate addresses complex sitework challenges, from foundation insulation and green roof drainage, to ground stabilization on compressible soils. By combining drainage, insulation, and high compressive strength into a single material, foamed glass aggregate reduces costs and embodied carbon, making it a versatile solution for commercial construction teams, builders, developers, and architects.
Foamed glass aggregate brings together a unique combination of technical performance benefits, project efficiency, and environmental performance in a single material.
Up to 125 psi supports static and dynamic loads in foundations, green roofs, and ground improvement applications.
R1.7 per inch with no thermal drift through whole building lifecycles in subslab insulation applications.
Closed-cell structure does not absorb moisture, providing excellent drainage for green roofs and below-grade applications.
Replaces foam insulation, crushed stone, and traditional fill materials, reducing labor and trade coordination.
90% lighter than stone, reduces loads in green roofs and lightweight fill applications.
Installs with standard equipment, no special handling or equipment needed during delivery or installation.
A typical Passive House slab-on-grade assembly with foam glass gravel consists of the following layers from bottom to top:
This assembly eliminates the traditional layers of crushed stone for drainage and rigid foam boards for insulation, consolidating both functions into the foam glass gravel layer. The result is simpler construction, fewer materials to coordinate, and continuous thermal performance without interruption. For frost-protected shallow foundations, foam glass gravel can be used both beneath the slab and as insulated backfill around the perimeter, creating a continuous insulated envelope that protects against frost heaving while maintaining thermal performance.
Foam glass gravel is made to meet diverse engineering and design standards required by the construction industry.
Test Name | Standard | Value |
|---|---|---|
Weight (per cubic foot) | 10 lbs | 100 lbs |
Compressive Strength | 130-140 psi | 100+ psi |
Drainage | Free-draining | Free-draining |
Standard Equipment | Standard Equipment | Special Handling |
Durability | High | High |
Foamed glass aggregate is used for subslab insulation (slab-on-grade and frost protected shallow foundations), green roofs, plaza decks, and as lightweight fill when building on compressible soils. It is used when construction projects look to consolidate materials, reduce structural loads, or meet sustainability goals without compromising performance.
Foamed glass aggregate supports LEED v5, Living Building Challenge, and other green building standards through multiple pathways. It is made from 100% post-consumer recycled content, manufactured with renewable energy, and is Red List Free.
Yes. Foamed glass aggregate can be specified through Division 07 (Thermal and Moisture Protection) for insulation applications or Division 31 (Earthwork) for fill and drainage applications.
Yes. Foamed glass aggregate is non-toxic, inert, and free from VOCs, formaldehyde, and microplastics. It is safe for use in schools, healthcare facilities, and other sensitive environments. Foamed glass aggregate does not leach chemicals and supports healthy indoor air quality.
Foamed glass aggregate is cost-competitive with foam-based insulation and granular fill on a material basis and delivers cost savings through reduced installation complexity. By consolidating multiple material layers into a single installation, labor hours can be reduced and construction schedules can be condensed.
