Why it is advisable to reuse polystyrene and a creative idea to make better use of it.
This homemade method shows how to reuse old polystyrene to create a useful sealing paste, especially for plugging leaks in ceilings. It is an economical, practical and recycling-based alternative.
Materials Needed
- Used polystyrene
- Heat-resistant pot
- A little water
- Knife or scissors
- Small plastic bottle
- Regular paint (whatever you have on hand)
- Leaky surface (e.g. roof sheeting)
Step by step of the process
1. Preparation of polystyrene
Chop the polystyrene into small pieces. This will help it degrade more evenly during heating.
2. Cooking and processing
Place a pot on the stove with a little water. When it starts to heat up, add two or three pieces of polystyrene.
You will see how the material degrades and becomes a viscous paste. Continue adding the rest of the pieces until you get a thick and homogeneous mixture.
3. Cooling the mixture
Remove the pot from the heat and let the resulting pasta cool completely. It is important that it is cold before handling it.
4. Preparing the container
Cut a small plastic bottle in half, horizontally. Use the bottom as a container.
5. Final Mix
Pour the cooled polystyrene paste into the container and mix it with paint. The paint helps to improve adhesion and facilitates application.
6. Rest
Let the mixture sit for at least 24 hours (optional, but recommended) to take on a better consistency.
7. Application
Apply the paste to holes or leaks in the ceiling. When drying, it acts as a waterproof sealer, preventing the passage of water.
Tips and recommendations
- Perform the process in a well-ventilated place.
- Wear gloves to avoid direct contact with the hot or viscous mixture.
- Do not use kitchen utensils that you are going to use for food.
- Test on a small area first before sealing the entire surface.
- This mixture is ideal for minor repairs, not a substitute for professional solutions on large structural damage.
For a better understanding of this content, we invite you to watch the following video from the Creation Invention channel:
Reusing old polystyrene to create a homemade sealant is an inexpensive and practical way to reduce waste and solve simple leaks. With easy-to-find materials, you can transform waste into a useful solution for the home.
👉 Follow our page, like 👍, and share this post. Every click can make a difference—perhaps saving your own life or that of a loved one.