Wool is gaining popularity as a sustainable, allergen-free, natural insulation materials, It is proving a worthy environmentally friendly alternative to fibreglass or polystyrene.

Wool insulation, like fibreglass, works by creating a pocket of still air within the bulk of the material. Used in walls, wool insulation is slightly less effective than fibreglass insulation, and as such has a lower R-Value. In normal ceiling cavities, natural wool insulation is roughly equivalent to fibreglass insulation.

Wool insulation is either 100% natural wool [with a binding compound] or a blend of natural wool and some other material such as fibreglass . Blending is typically done to achieve a higher R-Value.

A 100% natural wool insulation is more expensive than the equivalent in fibreglass insulation.

R-Values

The typical R-Values used in 100% natural wool insulation are:

Ceiling insulation: R3.2
Wall insulation: R2.5

The composition of natural wool insulation means that the maximum R-Value for a 90mm standard wall is lower than a non-natural alternative insulation.

Benefits of Wool Insulation

The benefits of wool insulation include:

All natural product
Allergen-free
Moderate R-Values
Renewable and sustainable
Naturally flame-retardant
Water resistant

Natural wool insulation Is a preferred insulation option for people with asthma and allergies.

Installation

Since wool it a natural product it is very safe to handle and install. The wool fibres are too large to harm lungs or skin, so don't irritate the same way that fiberglass insulation does.

Next: Water Cylinder Insulation