I can't afford my first choice loft insulation (sheep's wool), so I need to choose between glass fibre insulation or rockwool. Can anyone recommend one over the other? Is there a better third alternative? I know either of these can cause an allergic skin/throat reaction, but do they pollute the wider environment as well? I am extremely keen to minimise environmental damage.
2006-12-12 00:04:22 · 8 answers · asked by Barney D 1 in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
There are other alternatives to Sheeps Wool that are cheaper. The embodied energy in FibreGlass and Mineral Wool is just enormous compared to any of the other Eco-alternatives. Why not go for Hemp/Flax or recycled clothing insulation - cheaper than Sheeps wool and MUCH better for you and the environment than rockwool and the like.
2006-12-12 00:22:20 · answer #1 · answered by muppetofkent 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If you have to have batts that can be stapled in place, rockwool is made from the slag that is produced as waste during the steel making process, so you would be using a material that would otherwise be dumped in a landfill.
But..if you can use blown in insulation, cellulose is #1: It's made from waste paper, uses borax as a fire retardant, and alum to keep the bugs away. The insulation value is as high, or higher than fibreglass or rockwool.
It has to be kept dry, or it will turn into compost.
I've worked in hundreds of attics, with all sorts of insulation. The worst to touch/breath is rockwool, next worst is fibreglass. Cellulose is a walk in the park, compared to those two. It can give some irritation, so you want to wear a respirator (always a good idea) but skin irritation is usually no problem.
2006-12-12 00:25:00 · answer #2 · answered by roadlessgraveled 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Rockwool
2006-12-12 01:13:49 · answer #3 · answered by puffy 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
When fiberglass is touched or moved, it releases small amounts of particulate matter into the air (and into your lungs).
Rock wool is made with petroleum products which offgas for decades. It isn't a good environmentally responsible choice either.
Look for Smart Foam installers in your area. They fill the dead air space between the inside and outside walls and it doesn't break down. That is the best choice you can make.
2006-12-12 01:42:39 · answer #4 · answered by DA 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Vermiculite granules. Very effective but I am not sure about the cost. Have you tried your local council for help towards the costs in way of a grant.
2006-12-12 00:08:41 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋
glass fibre was made illegal in the seventies in europe. Not sure where you live but it is a dangerous thing to use.
2006-12-12 00:10:27 · answer #6 · answered by b94897p8 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
there is a paper product on the market and it's enviromentally friendly ,dont know were to buy though
2006-12-12 01:19:25 · answer #7 · answered by demoman 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
rockwool
2006-12-12 00:11:45 · answer #8 · answered by ?*?*? 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋