Comparing Mineral Wool and Fiberglass Insulation: A Guide for Making the Right Selection for Your Construction Project
When it comes to home insulation, two popular choices are mineral wool and fibreglass. Each material has its unique advantages and disadvantages, making them suitable for different applications.
Composition
Mineral wool is made from natural rock (rock wool) and industrial slag fibers, creating dense, tough fibers often containing recycled materials. On the other hand, fibreglass insulation is composed of very fine glass fibers woven into batts or loose fill.
Ease of Use
Fibreglass insulation is more DIY-friendly, as it typically comes in pre-cut panels that are easy to install between studs and joists. In contrast, mineral wool requires more careful cutting and fitting due to its higher density and tougher fibers, often benefiting from professional installation to maximize its effectiveness and avoid compression.
Thermal Performance
Mineral wool generally offers higher R-values per inch (around R-3.0 to R-4.3) and better thermal resistance without losing efficiency over time. Fibreglass provides good thermal insulation but at a slightly lower density and R-value than mineral wool.
Lifespan and Durability
Mineral wool is highly durable, maintaining performance for decades without settling, degrading, or compressing. Fibreglass can settle or sag over time, potentially reducing its insulating effectiveness, and is more vulnerable to moisture damage if installed in damp areas.
Moisture Resistance
Mineral wool is water-resistant and less prone to mold and mildew due to repelling water while remaining breathable. Fibreglass is less moisture resistant; if it gets wet, it can retain moisture, degrade, and become a mold risk.
Fire Resistance
Mineral wool significantly outperforms fibreglass in fire resistance, being non-combustible and capable of withstanding high temperatures without melting or emitting harmful gases. Fibreglass is fire-resistant but less so than mineral wool; it adds a layer of fire protection but can melt at very high temperatures.
Soundproofing
Mineral wool's higher density provides superior sound absorption and noise reduction between rooms and from external sources. Fibreglass reduces noise but is less effective than mineral wool at soundproofing.
In summary, mineral wool insulation offers superior thermal performance, durability, fire resistance, moisture resistance, and soundproofing compared to fibreglass but is generally more expensive and harder to install without professional help. Fibreglass insulation remains popular due to its lower cost, easier installation, and adequate performance for many standard residential applications.
When handling fibreglass insulation, it's essential to wear proper protective gear due to the tiny glass fibers that can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs. Mineral wool, also known as stone wool, is dense, durable, and offers good thermal, acoustic, and fireproofing properties.
For natural or eco-friendly insulation, consider wood fibre insulation, hemp insulation, or sheep wool insulation. The thickness requirements for thermal performance should be considered when choosing between the two types to satisfy building regulations. Mineral wool insulation is suitable for residential projects where high performance is needed, including insulating lofts, walls, floors, and roofs. Fibreglass insulation is used widely in homes and is commonly used to insulate attics, ceilings, and for internal wall insulation.
Mineral wool is more effective at absorbing sound and reducing noise transmission, making it a better choice for soundproofing. Mineral wool can withstand temperatures up to 1,000°C, while fibreglass starts to melt at around 600°C, offering less fire protection. Mineral wool insulation is versatile and can be used in various settings, including floors, walls, insulating roofs, and around pipes, especially in situations where fire safety and soundproofing are essential.
- Mineral wool, made from natural rock and industrial slag fibers, offers higher R-values per inch and better thermal resistance compared to fibreglass insulation.
- Fibreglass insulation, composed of very fine glass fibers, is more suitable for DIY projects due to its ease of installation between studs and joists.
- For a home project, one must consider the regulations for thermal performance when choosing between mineral wool and fibreglass insulation.
- When it comes to fire safety, mineral wool significantly outperforms fibreglass due to its non-combustible nature and high temperature resistance.
- For soundproofing, mineral wool offers superior sound absorption and noise reduction from internal and external sources compared to fibreglass.
- If you're looking for natural or eco-friendly insulation options, consider wood fibre insulation, hemp insulation, or sheep wool insulation aside from mineral wool and fibreglass.
- When handling fibreglass insulation, always wear protective gear to shield against its fine glass fibers that may irritate your skin, eyes, and lungs.
