Choosing Between Mineral Wool and Fibreglass Insulation for Your Construction Project: A Guide
In the realm of home insulation, two popular choices stand out: mineral wool and fibreglass. Each material offers unique characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.
Mineral Wool
Made from natural stone fibers (basalt, diabase) or from molten slag (steel production waste), spun into fibers and bound with resins and oils, mineral wool is a durable and eco-friendly option. Up to 90% of its content can be recycled, making it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Mineral wool is denser and stiffer than fibreglass, which makes it somewhat less flexible but still installable as batts or loose-fill. It requires professional installation for maximizing performance and avoiding gaps. However, this denser structure translates to better thermal performance, with higher R-values, typically R-3.0 to R-4.3 per inch, offering improved warmth retention.
Mineral wool's superior fire resistance is another key advantage. It can withstand high temperatures without burning, and rock fiber mineral wool is Class A fire-rated. This makes it an ideal choice for demanding environments requiring fire safety.
Mineral wool also excels in soundproofing, absorbing sound waves and reducing noise transmission. This property, combined with its thermal and fireproofing qualities, makes it a popular choice for noise control in homes and commercial settings.
Fibreglass
Fibreglass insulation, also known as glass wool or glass mineral wool, is the classic insulation quilt most people are familiar with, often sold in rolls or pre-cut batts. It is made from extremely thin glass fibers blown from molten glass and loosely bound, often adhered to kraft paper or mesh backing.
Fibreglass is lightweight, flexible, and easy to cut and fit, which makes DIY installation more common. However, it needs to remain dry to avoid mold growth. Its thermal performance is lower than mineral wool, with R-values generally between R-11 to R-13 for 4-inch batts.
Fibreglass is slower-burning but less fire resistant than mineral wool, and it has lower fire resistance ratings in comparison. While it offers some flame retardant properties, it is not as effective in fireproofing as mineral wool.
Despite these drawbacks, fibreglass insulation is the more affordable option compared to mineral wool. It is also popular for DIY projects due to its lightweight nature and ease of handling.
Choosing Between Mineral Wool and Fibreglass
When deciding between mineral wool and fibreglass, consider the specific needs of your project. Mineral wool, with its superior thermal performance, superior fire resistance, durability, moisture resistance, and soundproofing, is ideal for demanding environments requiring fire safety, moisture resistance, and soundproofing.
On the other hand, fibreglass can be suitable for more budget-conscious, standard insulation needs where ease of installation is prioritized. Its lightweight nature and affordability make it popular for DIY projects like insulating lofts or walls.
For home comfort and energy saving, a specific mineral wool insulation product (100/200mm) is designed for loft applications. Similarly, a specific fibreglass insulation product (100mm) is designed for insulating between 400 and 600mm ceiling joists. For cold lofts where pitched roofs are insulated at ceiling level, another fibreglass insulation product (170mm and 200mm) is available.
Both materials have improved thermal performance in recent years, and both are suitable for residential projects where high performance is needed, including lofts, walls, floors, and even around pipes.
For those seeking natural or eco-friendly insulation options, consider wood fibre insulation, hemp insulation, or sheep wool insulation. For improved fireproofing, soundproofing, and durability, mineral wool is worth the extra cost.
- In the home-and-garden and home-improvement sectors, mineral wool and fibreglass are widely recognized as leading options for energy-efficient insulation projects.
- Made from natural stone fibers or steel production waste, mineral wool offers an extension to environmentally conscious homes through its eco-friendly design and high recyclability.
- Guide potential homeowners in their project decisions by highlighting mineral wool's superior thermal performance, which can provide higher R-values for improved warmth retention.
- Be aware of the regulations governing insulation materials in your locality, as mineral wool's denser structure and superior fire resistance may be advantageous in demanding environments requiring fire safety.
- Fibreglass insulation, most commonly found as rolled or pre-cut batts, is a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious homeowners who prioritize ease of installation.
- Within the realm of home improvements or lifestyle changes, consider insulating the home's roof, walls, or floors with either mineral wool or fibreglass for enhanced energy efficiency and comfort.
- If a loft conversion or insulation project is on your agenda, specific mineral wool or fibreglass insulation products are tailored to optimize performance in these applications, ensuring a cozy living space and reduced energy costs.
