Mineral wool insulation is partly composed of recycled steel slag and iron ore waste. It’s also made from volcanic rock. Unlike fiberglass insulation, this type of insulation uses natural compounds. This makes the insulation an eco-friendly product. It comes in rolls like fiberglass insulation, so the installation process is similar.
The Pros of Mineral Wool Insulation
There are many advantages to using mineral wool to insulate your home. Here are a few of the most worthwhile benefits of installing this type of insulation in your home.
Energy-Efficiency
Mineral wool has an extremely high R-value, which is its ability to retain heat. The energy you can conserve in five months will equal the energy used to manufacture your insulation. This means your home will need less insulation to provide the same level of protection.
Durability
Mineral wool is extremely durable and may last longer than other types of insulation. That’s because it uses rocks, ore, and other hard substances that won’t sag or settle over time. There are also air pockets in between the stone fibers for greater breathability. As a result, moisture is less likely to accumulate.
Fire-Resistant
This type of insulation is also very fire-resistant. Due to the high temperatures used in the manufacturing process, the insulation can withstand temperatures up to 1,000 degrees Celsius or 1,832 degrees Fahrenheit. Since mineral wool is fire-resistant, you may be able to get a discount on your homeowner’s insurance.
Soundproof
The rocks used in the production of mineral wool also provide soundproofing advantages. The rocks help block sound waves from passing through the insulation, which means noise won’t travel.
If you insulate the walls in rooms with entertainment equipment, musical instruments, or other loud tools, those noises won’t travel into other rooms.
Easy Installation
Mineral wool insulation is dense and rigid. This makes it ideal for handling during the installation process. Since it is very rigid, installers will find it easy to cut to size for a customized fit.
The Cons of Mineral Wool Insulation
Every type of insulation will have certain drawbacks or disadvantages. Before you decide to use mineral wool in your home, it may be helpful to review some of the most common drawbacks.
Hazardous Installation
Much like fiberglass insulation, mineral wool sheds slivers of material that can affect the skin. Anyone who inhales those slivers may develop lung damage as a result. For this reason, installers must wear protective clothing and face protection when handling the insulation. Once installed, mineral wool is safe for your home.
Higher Costs
You’ll find that mineral wool is more costly than fiberglass insulation due to its unique manufacturing process. Manufacturers use high-temperature furnaces, spinning machines, and other technology to produce it. Since it lasts longer and provides a better R-value, the insulation will pay for itself in a short time.
Heavier Weight
Before buying mineral wool for your home, consult your insulation contractors about your home’s weight tolerance. Since this type of insulation is denser than other insulating materials, it’s also considerably heavier. Make sure your roof or ceiling can support that much weight.
Biodegradability
Even though mineral wool comes from natural elements, you should know that it’s not biodegradable. This is why the iron ore and other recycled materials would otherwise end up in a landfill. It’s also what makes these materials great for manufacturing insulation.
Your contractor for insulation installation can help you buy and install mineral wool rolls. When talking to your contractor, specify that you want this type of insulation for your home. They can also answer any additional questions you have about this type of insulating material.