PIR vs Wood Fibre vs Rockwool - what to choose in your slab
Polyisocyanurate (PIR), Rockwool, and wood fibre are three different types of insulation materials used in construction, each with its unique properties and advantages. Here are the key benefits of wood fibre insulation compared to PIR and Rockwool:
Renewable and Sustainable: Wood fibre insulation is made from wood, a renewable resource, which makes it more sustainable and environmentally friendly compared to PIR, a petroleum-based product, and Rockwool, which is made from volcanic rock and requires a high-energy manufacturing process.
Carbon Sequestration: As wood grows, it naturally absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere. Hence, wood fibre insulation helps to reduce the carbon footprint of a building.
Moisture Management: Wood fibre insulation is more breathable than PIR and Rockwool, meaning it can help to regulate humidity levels within a building and reduce the risk of condensation and related problems, such as mould growth.
Heat Storage: Wood fibre insulation has a high specific heat capacity. This means it can absorb and store heat, helping to regulate the internal temperature of a building and reduce overheating in summer. This is a characteristic not found in PIR or Rockwool.
Acoustic Insulation: Wood fibre insulation can provide better sound insulation compared to PIR and similar to Rockwool, which can improve the comfort of a building.
End of Life Disposal: Wood fibre insulation is biodegradable and can be recycled or composted at the end of its life, whereas PIR and Rockwool are more challenging to recycle and often end up in landfill.
However, it's important to note that PIR has a higher R-value per inch (a measure of thermal resistance), meaning it can provide more insulation with less thickness, and Rockwool has excellent fire-resistant properties. Therefore, while wood fibre insulation has many benefits, PIR or Rockwool may be a better choice in some situations, such as when space is limited, a higher fire rating is required, or specific acoustic insulation properties are needed.
As always, the choice of insulation should depend on the specifics of your project, local building regulations, and environmental considerations.
