Glass wool or mineral wool - which is best for insulation?

When you're insulating a building, it is crucial to choose the best materials available. Fibreglass and mineral wool stand out as two of the most popular insulation options, each offering distinct advantages depending on your needs.

We are a leading chemical industry glass wool supplier, providing you with a comprehensive range of products. Our specialists are available to assist you in finding precisely what you need.

This article serves as a valuable resource, offering essential factors to consider when determining whether fibreglass or mineral wool is the optimal choice for your insulation project.

Now, let's delve deeper.

Table of contents:

Glass wool insulation

Glass wool insulation, often referred to as fibreglass, derives from glass fibres. At very high temperatures, glass is melted and spun into fibres, which are subsequently bound for insulation purposes. These glass fibres create air pockets that inhibit heat loss, making it a poor conductor of heat. You can find glass wool in batts, rolls, loose-fill insulation, and insulation boards.

Mineral wool insulation

Mineral wool, or ROCKWOOL, produced from raw materials like stone and glass, is melted at high temperatures and spun to create fibres, similar to wool. This wool is packaged into batts, rolls, or slabs for use in insulation.

R-value

In comparing ROCKWOOL and fibreglass batt wall insulation, both have a comparable R-value of approximately 0.57 per inch of thickness. They share nearly identical thermal conductivity, providing equal performance in insulation.

Sustainability

For those prioritizing sustainability, glass wool is typically composed of up to 86% recycled materials, whereas mineral wool features up to 70% recycled content. With sustainability increasingly important in material selection, this factor plays a vital role in your decision.

Sound insulation

When it comes to sound insulation, mineral wool is often the preferred option due to its higher density, which effectively reduces sound transmission compared to glass wool.

Ease of installation

For those planning to install insulation personally, mineral wool is generally easier to handle. Despite being heavier than glass wool, it is simpler to cut, move, and fit into place, whereas glass wool's flexibility can pose challenges during installation.

Moisture resistance

For moisture-resistance needs, mineral wool is superior, as it is resistant to water and does not promote conditions suitable for mold or mildew growth. Conversely, glass wool can retain moisture, leading to potential growth of fungi, mildew, and rot.

Fire resistance

Both mineral and glass wool are non-combustible; however, mineral wool has markedly better fire resistance, making it suitable as a fire stop in fire-prone areas, an essential consideration when selecting insulation materials.

Interested in exploring more about building glass wool batts? Contact us today for expert consultation!

Cost

If budget constraints are a concern, glass wool is a more cost-effective insulation choice, being around 10% less expensive than mineral wool while still effectively reducing heat loss and energy expenses.

Final thoughts

Both glass wool and mineral wool serve as effective insulation materials in construction. While mineral wool offers superior fire and moisture resistance, glass wool is a sustainable option that also effectively insulates. By knowing how these two insulation materials differ, you can tailor your choice to your specific needs.

Regardless of your final choice, proper insulation aids in maintaining warmth within your home while reducing energy expenses. For any inquiries or guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to our team at 692 206.

Was this guide useful?

Let us know if you liked the post. That’s the only way we can improve.

Thanks for rating this article.

Fiberglass insulation consists of fine, woven glass fibers, typically cut into rolls or batts. In contrast, sheep wool insulation is all-natural, organic, and biodegradable.

Fiberglass has been the industry standard for nearly 80 years, with a blown-in variant now available. Though glass fiber insulation is economical and widely accessible, a low-quality, inexpensive fiberglass product can pose health risks as it was previously classified a carcinogen. Learn more about these concerns as our understanding of fiberglass continues to evolve.

To read further on this subject, visit our site for insights on glass wool pipe for refrigeration.