Earthwool Insulation

Insulation products made from fiberglass have always been popular choices for both residential and commercial installations. Fiberglass insulation is relatively cheap and easier to install, and is widely available in several sizes and thicknesses. However, there are similar products like mineral wool and earthwool insulation that are becoming popular. Fiberglass, earthwool, and mineral wool all have similar properties, but each material has a few distinct characteristics that differentiate them from each other.

Fiberglass insulation is made from glass fibers that are packed and then cut into batts and blankets. It is commonly available with a kraft paper or aluminum foil layer on one side, but can also be purchased unfaced. Mineral wool, also known as rockwool, is also available in batts and blankets. But instead of being made from glass fibers, mineral wool is composed of fine threads from volcanic rock or basalt.

Making mineral wool involves melting stone and industrial slag in a furnace. The molten mix is then spun into fibers and formed into layers of fibrous, pliant material. This material will then undergo further processing to create batts and blankets. Creating fiberglass insulation works pretty much the same way, except the material is made out of discontinuous glass fibers mixed with other ingredients like borax and calcinated alumina (among others). Fiberglass insulation is both available as soft batts and as rigid boards.

Earthwool insulation is making waves in the industry for basically being an improved version of fiberglass. Much like fiberglass, earthwool insulation is primarily made from recycled glass fibers, mixed with a binding agent and formed into layers. The most significant difference between fiberglass and earthwool is that the latter is manufactured using ECOSE® Technology. This technology uses a new formaldehyde-free binding process based on renewable materials instead of relying on petrochemicals. The basic goal is to develop a manufacturing process that also promotes high environmental sustainability.

Overall, earthwool insulation appears to be a better version of the conventional fiberglass products used for insulation. Earthwool has an appreciably softer, less-crunchy texture than fiberglass, and is more similar to cotton. While fiberglass and rockwool must be handled carefully due to the microfibers irritating the skin, earthwool is itch-free and a lot more comfortable to handle and install due to ECOSE® Technology. Like fiberglass and rockwool, earthwool insulation is also non-combustible and has the same acoustic and thermal insulation properties.

Earthwool products are also resistant to rot, is water-resistant, and does not sustain nor encourage vermin, mold, fungi, or bacteria. Those who install these insulation materials will also appreciate the fact that earthwool insulation practically has no smell whatsoever. The absence of odours and the significantly-reduced itchiness will make this material a favorite to work with among DIYers and professionals alike. However, the affordability of the different materials described here will still be a factor.

Fiberglass, mineral wool, and earthwool all share several properties that make either one of them good choices for insulating your home, but you should also consider the major differences between them when considering your options.