ROCK WOOL INSULATION
Blog post description.
11/13/20233 min read
Rock-Wool Insulation: What It Is and Where to Use It
The significance of a well-insulated home cannot be emphasized enough. When insulation is correctly sized and installed, it can help reduce energy consumption, provide warmth in the winter and coolness in the summer, and ultimately save money by lowering energy bills.
Fiberglass insulation has been the preferred choice for homeowners and homebuilders for many years. However, there is a growing trend in the insulation industry towards another type of insulation called rock-wool insulation.
If you are considering insulating your roof, floors, or walls with fiberglass insulation, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced insulation expert for the job. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to carry out the installation flawlessly. To get started, you can visit our quote page and request free and non-committal quotes from different insulation professionals. This will help you compare prices and choose the best option for your insulation needs.Click here to request quotes.
Rock wool, also known as mineral wool, is a type of insulation that comes in easy-to-install batts, similar to fiberglass. However, instead of being made of glass fibers, rock wool is made from rocks through a unique manufacturing process.The process involves heating natural rock in a furnace to extremely high temperatures until it melts into a liquid. The liquid is then exposed to a high-pressure jet of air or steam and spun at a super-high speed, creating long fiber strands. These strands are captured and compressed into thick, dense mats, which are then cut into convenient-sized batts for insulation purposes.
What Is Rock Wool Insulation?
The unique composition of rock wool produces a high-performing insulation with the following features:
Typically contains up to 75 percent recycled content.
Retains heat well and traps air, which slows the transfer of heat.
Non-combustible and fire resistant to about 1,400 degrees.
Highly water repellent.
Excellent sound-deadening properties.
Higher insulating value than fiberglass.
Long-term performance—rock wool doesn't degrade over time.
Allows moisture to escape, deterring mold and mildew.
Dense, firm batts are friction-fit into place, eliminating the need for stapling.
Where to Use Rock Wool Insulation？
Rock-wool insulation can be installed in various areas of a house, including walls, floors, ceilings, attics, and crawlspaces. However, it is particularly suitable for rooms on the cold north side of the house and interior rooms that require sound deadening, such as media rooms or music studios.
One of the main advantages of rock wool is its high fire resistance, making it ideal for use as a firestop between floors in a house. It is often required by building codes in such applications. It is recommended to consult with the local building inspector to identify specific areas that require rock wool firestops during remodeling or new construction.
Working with rock wool is easy as the firm batts can be cut to size using a serrated knife or handsaw. The insulation is highly water repellent, with water beading up and rolling off without soaking into the fibers. The tightly compacted fibers ensure that the insulation does not shift or slump down, maintaining its insulating value.
It's important to note that rock-wool insulation does not come with a kraft-paper or foil barrier. Depending on the situation, an independent permeable membrane may need to be installed as a vapor barrier.
The Bottom Line
The reason why rock wool insulation is not the only type being installed is primarily due to its higher price compared to fiberglass insulation. Fiberglass insulation for a 2x6 wall costs between 57 cents and 72 cents per square foot, while rock wool insulation for the same wall costs about $1.06 per square foot. This price difference can be significant, especially when insulating an entire house or a large addition.
However, despite the higher initial cost, rock wool insulation offers a higher R-value of 23 compared to fiberglass insulation's R-value of 19. This increased insulation capability allows for better temperature control and can result in lower energy bills. Over time, the energy savings can help recoup the additional cost of rock wool insulation, typically within a couple of years.
Furthermore, rock wool insulation is known for its long-term durability, requiring little maintenance. This means that once installed, it can provide effective insulation for many years to come, further adding to its value.
Overall, while the initial cost of rock wool insulation may be higher, its superior insulation performance and long-term durability can make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those looking to achieve energy efficiency and long-lasting insulation in their homes.
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