If you’ve ever worked on an outdoor project, a boat fit-out, or even needed protective packaging, you’ll know that foam isn’t one-size-fits-all. Closed-cell foams like EVA, PE and IXPE are designed for durability, water resistance and insulation - but each has its own strengths. Knowing the difference can help you choose the right material and get the best results for your project.
What Makes Closed-Cell Foam Different?
Closed-cell foam is made with tiny sealed bubbles, giving it a waterproof, buoyant and rigid structure. This makes it ideal for situations where softness and airflow aren’t the priority, but strength, moisture resistance and long life are.
You’ll see closed-cell foams used in marine cushions, camping gear, packaging, sports mats, automotive trims and thermal insulation.
EVA Foam vs PE Foam
Two of the most common options are EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) and PE (Polyethylene) foams.
- EVA foam is softer and more elastic. It has excellent rebound and shock absorption, making it suitable for marine flotation, gym mats, craft projects and padding. Higher-density grades (like EVA75 or EVA240) are firmer and provide more load-bearing strength.
- PE foam is firmer and more rigid, with better thermal insulation properties. It’s widely used in packaging, automotive applications, and construction projects where structure and durability matter most.
Where IXPE Foam Fits In
IXPE foam (cross-linked polyolefin) takes performance a step further. It’s lightweight, flexible, and has a fine, smooth cell structure. Its standout features include:
- Excellent thermal insulation (low thermal conductivity ≈ 0.032 W/m·K)
- Acoustic benefits - dampens sound and vibration
- Resistance to water, UV and chemicals
- Wide temperature tolerance (−70°C to +90°C)
- Available in rolls, with options for foil facing or adhesive backing to make installation easier
This makes IXPE a popular choice for air conditioning insulation, automotive soundproofing, marine fit-outs and building projects.
Why Choose Closed-Cell Foam?
✔ Waterproof and buoyant — perfect for marine and outdoor use
✔ Durable, non-dusting and easy to work with
✔ Resistant to UV, oils, fuels and chemicals
✔ Available in different densities to suit light craft work or heavy-duty industrial jobs
✔ Provides thermal and acoustic insulation as well as cushioning
Picking the Right Foam for Your Project
- Environment - Will it be exposed to sun, water, or chemicals? Closed-cell foam is ideal for harsh conditions.
- Flexibility vs firmness - EVA is softer and springier; PE and higher-density EVA grades are firmer.
- Thickness - Thin rolls (3–5 mm) work well for insulation wraps; thicker sheets (20–25 mm) are better for mats, pads or flotation.
- Special finishes - IXPE can come with foil facing or adhesive backing for easier installation.
- Custom sizing - Does one of our stocked products and thicknesses suit your project? If not contact us about custom products or custom cutting.
Shop Closed-Cell Foam with Confidence
At Home Upholsterer, we stock a wide range of Australian-made closed-cell foams including EVA, PE, IXPE and EPE. Whether you need a single sheet for a DIY project or bulk rolls for trade use, we’ve got you covered.
- Closed cell foam sheets kept in stock, available in a range of standard thicknesses
- Bulk and trade supply direct from our Sydney warehouse
- Fast Australia-wide delivery or local click & collect
👉 Explore our full range of Closed-Cell Foam Sheets & Rolls today.