Comparing Mineral Wool and Fiberglass Insulation: A Guide to Selecting the Suitable One for Your Construction Task
In the realm of home insulation, two popular contenders are mineral wool and fibreglass. Each offers distinct advantages and trade-offs in terms of composition, ease of use, thermal performance, lifespan, durability, fire resistance, soundproofing, price, and eco-friendliness.
Mineral wool, often referred to as stone wool, is made from natural stone fibers such as basalt or diabase, or recycled steel slag. Approximately 90% of its composition is recycled content, bound with resins and oils [1][5]. On the other hand, fibreglass is crafted from fine glass fibers spun into mats or batts [3][5].
When it comes to ease of use, fibreglass takes the lead. It is lightweight and easier to handle and install, making it a popular choice for DIY projects [3][5]. However, mineral wool, due to its higher density, is denser and stiffer, which can make it harder to cut and fit, particularly for beginners [3][5].
In terms of thermal performance, mineral wool boasts higher R-values per inch (typically R-4.0 to R-4.2), providing better insulation than fibreglass batts (R-11 to R-13) [1][3]. Fibreglass's performance, however, relies heavily on a good fit [1][3].
Mineral wool's durability is impressive, with excellent resistance to deformation. However, it can be prone to water absorption, which can reduce its effectiveness [5]. Fibreglass, while less durable, is vulnerable to compression and sagging over time, losing its effectiveness if compressed or moist [3].
Fire resistance is another area where mineral wool shines. Its volcanic rock base offers excellent fire resistance, making it noncombustible and capable of withstanding very high temperatures [1][2][5]. Fibreglass, while non-combustible, is less fireproof compared to mineral wool [3][5].
Mineral wool's superior sound absorption and noise reduction properties make it a popular choice for soundproofing applications [1][2][5]. Fibreglass provides some soundproofing but is generally less effective than mineral wool [3].
Price-wise, mineral wool is about 10% more expensive than fibreglass, considered a higher-end option due to its advantages [1][3]. Fibreglass, however, is more cost-effective, with a lower initial cost suitable for budget-conscious projects [1][3].
From an eco-friendliness perspective, mineral wool typically contains high recycled content (around 90%), but its manufacturing process is energy-intensive due to the melting of rock at high temperatures [1][5]. Fibreglass is made from recycled glass but has less recycled content overall, with a manufacturing process that consumes less energy than mineral wool [3][5].
For residential projects requiring high performance, mineral wool is a suitable choice due to its superior thermal performance, durability, fire resistance, and soundproofing [6]. Fibreglass, on the other hand, is the more affordable option, making it a popular choice for DIY projects [7].
In conclusion, mineral wool offers better thermal performance, durability, fire resistance, and soundproofing, with a higher price and more challenging installation. Fibreglass is cheaper, easier to install for homeowners, but has lower thermal efficiency and durability. Mineral wool is more eco-friendly from a recycled content perspective but has a more energy-intensive manufacturing process. Fibreglass is less expensive upfront but may require more frequent replacement or repair.
References:
[1] Building Green [2] Insulation Institute [3] Green Matters [4] Energy Sage [5] This Old House [6] The Guardian [7] Home Stratosphere
- The material known as mineral wool, a natural stone fiber-based insulation, consists of 90% recycled content and is typically more expensive than fibreglass.
- In the realm of residential projects, mineral wool provides better thermal performance, durability, fire resistance, and soundproofing, making it suitable for homes prioritizing high performance.
- Fibreglass, on the other hand, is a more cost-effective, lightweight insulation option popular for DIY projects due to its ease of installation and use by homeowners.
- When it comes to thermal performance, mineral wool boasts higher R-values per inch, offering superior insulation compared to fibreglass batts.
- In terms of fire resistance, mineral wool excels, being noncombustible and capable of withstanding high temperatures due to its volcanic rock base.
- The sound absorption and noise reduction capabilities of mineral wool make it a popular choice for soundproofing applications, outperforming fibreglass in this area.
- In terms of eco-friendliness, while mineral wool contains high recycled content, its manufacturing process takes more energy due to the melting of rock at high temperatures, whereas fibreglass is made from recycled glass and has a less energy-intensive process.
