Mineral Wool Insulation vs Fibreglass

For many decades, fibreglass insulation (also known as glass wool insulation or glass mineral wool) was the standard for home construction. So what are the main drawbacks? First off, fibreglass is sourced from non-renewable materials, specifically plastic reinforced with glass fibres. Fibreglass Insulation is made from up to 30% of recycled glass, like Knauf DriTherm 37 (which is specifically designed for installation in external masonry cavity walls). Secondly, fibreglass insulation has been linked to adverse health impacts, including irritating the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Let's consider the properties of each: Eco-friendly - Mineral wool is made of up to 80% recycled content, whereas fibreglass is only made from up to 30%.Weight - Mineral wool insulation slabs are far heavier than fibreglass slabs. They do not bend or sag as easily as fibreglass insulation slabs.Installation - Firm mineral wool slabs can friction-fit into place between studs and joists. Installing fibreglass can be more complicated because it requires staples and/or wires.Fire resistance - Both fibreglass and mineral wool insulation are classed as A1 non-combustible on the Euroclass scale, which means that they do not burn.

Will I Need Cavity Barriers When Full Filling With DriTherm Cavity Slabs?

A full fill cavity with DriTherm Cavity Slabs will meet the requirements of the Building Regulations 2010, therefore cavity barriers will not be required (as the insulation fully fills the cavity). DriTherm Cavity Slabs have the highest Euroclass Classification, Euroclass A1 Reaction to Fire Classification, in accordance with BS EN 13501-1 : 2007.

What Tools Will I Need To Use When Installing?

Knauf insulation slabs are very light and malleable. You can simply use a sharp serrated knife to slice through them. Always ensure you take proper safety precautions. Before you get into the swing of cutting and fitting, we recommend wearing goggles, aprons, and even protective glasses. If you are concerned about safety precautions, always consult with a professional.

What Do The Numbers On The Product Names Mean?

The numbers on the product names are related to the thermal conductivity of the product. So the lower the number, the better thermal performance that product will give. For example, in the DriTherm range, the "Therm 37" relates to the product's thermal conductivity value of 0.037 W/mK whilst the 'Dri' refers to the slab's water repellent additive, added to maximise its overall thermal performance.