GBA Logo horizontal Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter Instagram YouTube Icon Navigation Search Icon Main Search Icon Video Play Icon Plus Icon Minus Icon Picture icon Hamburger Icon Close Icon Sorted

Community and Q&A

Blown/Compact Rock Wool

ermackey | Posted in Green Products and Materials on

I live in Juneau, Alaska. Being in a Temperate Rain Forest (220+ days of rain per year), both rain and cold is an issue. I would like to retrofit my exterior walls and blown cellulose seems like the most effective way per dollar spent. However, Rock Wool seems like an even better choice since it provides better fire resistance, moisture resistance, and a similar R-value.

The problem is that I can not find any USA granulated Rock Wool. I find plenty in the UK and New Zeland, but nothing in the USA.

Questions:
#1: Where do I find granulated Rock Wool or Rock Wool adequate for blowing into wall cavities?
#2: Are there any downsides of which I need to be aware?
#3: Any other tips or considerations are appreciated.

GBA Prime

Join the leading community of building science experts

Become a GBA Prime member and get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

Replies

  1. GBA Editor
    Martin Holladay | | #1

    Emil,
    I have never heard of a U.S. contractor who offers blown-in rock wool, even though I know that the process is technically possible and has been done. The method may be used in commercial construction, but I've never heard of it being done on a residential job in the U.S. or Canada.

    Here's my advice: if you can't find the product in Juneau, I wouldn't waste a lot of time (or invest in high shipping charges) to get a few bales of mineral wool shipped to Juneau. I would select a type of insulation material that is readily available in Juneau.

Log in or create an account to post an answer.

Community

Recent Questions and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |