By: Dale Mullikin, Sales Representative - Architectural Products
When people look at a Cadillac they perceive higher value than a Chevrolet. Both are made by the same manufacturer. Both may even use the same parts but due to experiences, marketing, beliefs or even cultural influences, the individual perception is that the Cadillac is better. So the value is higher for a Cadillac than a Chevrolet. A Cadillac certainly costs more but is it really worth the perceived value.
What is your first impression of Expanded Polystyrene? Most people have an initial impression of EPS that is not good. I have held up a sample of EPS in front of architects, engineers and contractors over the years and always hear the same thing, which I don’t want to repeat here. But it isn’t good. Why do I put myself through this every time I talk about EPS? Because perception is based on many factors like past experiences, feelings, imagination, values, memories, beliefs and your cultural settings. (Investopedia) Perceptions can be different for everyone for many reasons. The great thing about perceptions is that they can be changed. My first impression of mushrooms as a kid was, “no way am I going to eat that gross, slimy vegetable”. Is it a vegetable? Now as an adult, I want as many mushrooms as possible on my steak! My perception changed as I gathered more information. Frying mushrooms helped me to love them even more.
My goal is to, hopefully, change your perception of EPS. Actually, if you read the blogs already on this site it will be obvious. So my goal is get you to start over with EPS. The EPS I sell today is called Foam-Control Plus+ and it is far different than the EPS sold fifteen years ago when I started selling EPS. Foam-Control Plus+ is an architectural Grade EPS. What does that mean? That means Foam Control Plus+ has been tested to meet all the requirements of ASTM C-578. Foam-Control Plus+ has been stamped and labeled to meet the new Energy Codes. Foam-Control Plus+ comes in four types: 150, 250, 400 and 600. Those all relate to the compressive resistance shown in our Tech Data sheets. R-values of 5, 7.5, 10, 15, 20 and 30 are all met and shown in our Tech Data sheets. Check out the fifteen-year test on water absorption. The results will show you Foam-Control Plus+ will absorb less water long term, and that means higher long-term r-value. ACH Foam Technologies warrants 100 percent of the r-value and has the test results to stand behind that warranty. How is that perception doing now?
We know first impressions are very important, but I believe results will win in the end. Take another look at Foam-Control Plus+. The results will change your perceptions. Foam-Control Plus+ is the Cadillac of all rigid insulations, but it doesn’t cost more.
