Rock wool and Glass wool are both mineral wools. Their appearance, structure, and performance characteristics are very similar, but how to choose? In order to help everyone better understand of them and make decision more easily, the editor of LiLuan will make an in-depth comparison of them:
1. R-Value and Refractory
R Value= Heat Resistance. The higher, the better. Rock wool has a higher R value and its fireproof effect is 1.5 times that of the glass wool. Glass wool’s refractory is far inferior to that of rock wool. So that’s why rock wool is much more widely used as a fireproof material.
2. Product Size
Glass wool is more soft and can be cut to different sizes. High dense Rock wool is not as widely available. Although it is available in rolls and tubes, it is usually available in batt or board form.
3. Environment Friendly
Rock wool is composed of over 70% recycled content, while glass wool is manufactured using only 20% to 30% recycled content.
4. Cost
The production cost of rock wool is 25%~50% higher than that of glass wool.
5. Density and Noise Absorption
The density of rock wool is generally 40-200kg/m³, and the density of glass wool is generally 10-100kg/m³.Regarding noise absorption, the rule is that the higher the density of the material, the better the effect, so rock wool is better.
6. Installation
Although rock wool is heavier, the stiffer batts and less likely to bend, making them easier to install.
7. Waterproof
Both rock wool and glass wool have waterproof properties, but due to the high density of rock wool, its water absorption rate is relatively high.
8. Application Area
Rock wool is often used to insulate exterior walls, heated crawl spaces, and basements, it is also ideal for insulation around pipes, windows, and electrical boxes. Glass wool is often used to insulate interior walls, garages, and attics.
