Rockwool and glasswool are the two basic materials used in insulation. Although they are used for similar purposes, there are some differences between rockwool and glasswool. In particular, the difference between the raw materials in these two materials is among the most important factors. So what is the difference between rockwool and glasswool? We mentioned that rockwool and glasswool are materials used in building insulation. Glasswool is an insulation material whose main ingredient is glass fiber. Glasswool, which has a fibrous and yellow color, is formed by melting inorganic materials with a heat of approximately 1250 C and turning them into fibers. On the other hand, rockwool is an insulation board in which the fiber formed as a result of melting basalt stones by heating at around 1500 C is used as the main material. Just like glasswool, rockwool has an inorganic structure. Therefore, no bacterial production occurs in both materials. In short, we can say that both insulation materials are insulation materials produced as a result of high heat. In addition, the fact that both rockwool and glasswool have an inorganic structure prevents insect infestation.
What are the Differences Between Rockwool and Glasswool?
We briefly explained what is rockwool and glasswool. We even saw that these two insulation materials have similar properties. However, we can say that there are some differences as well as similarities. So what are the differences between rockwool and glasswool?
1. Intended Use
Although we have stated that the usage purposes of rockwool and glasswool are similar, this will basically be valid for insulation. On the other hand, since rockwool is durable up to 600 degrees on average, it can be used in different insulations. For example, it is often preferred in pipes with very high temperatures and electrical household appliances. Glasswool, on the other hand, is resistant to an average of 260 degrees. For this reason, the purpose of use is slightly different than rockwool. For example, it can be used in pipes with low temperature or for heat and sound insulation of reinforced concrete structures. Therefore, we can say that the difference between rockwool and glasswool includes the purpose of use.
2. Ease of Use
Rockwool and glasswool have some differences in terms of ease of use. In this sense, rockwool is much easier to use. In fact, rockwool is a heavier material than glasswool. However, cutting, transporting and placing rockwool is easier than glasswool. Also, glasswool produces a lot of fine dust during construction. This can also be a disadvantage for workers.
3. Raw Material and Production
We mentioned that the difference between glasswool and rockwool stems from the raw material. Rockwool is produced from basalt, a volcanic rock; Glasswool is a material produced from glass. While borax, an auxiliary material, is used to produce glasswool, basalt is directly exposed to high temperature to produce rockwool. Therefore, they are produced in different ways.
4. R Value
R value, also known as thermal permeability resistance, is called the resistance of a building material to heat transfer. The higher the R value of the material, the better the resistance. Accordingly, glasswool has an average R value between 2.2 and 2.7. Rockwool, on the other hand, has an R value ranging from 3.0 to 3.3. Therefore, the thermal permeability resistance of rockwool is higher than glasswool.
5. Density
Rockwool has a much higher value than glasswool in terms of density. This situation may be caused by the production raw material of rockwool. However, compacting rockwool is an extremely difficult process due to its density. On the other hand, glass wool can lose its insulation value when compressed.
6. Weight
As we explained above, rockwool is a much denser material than glass wool due to its main material. Similarly, this situation causes the rockwool to be much heavier. Glasswool, on the other hand, is lighter and easier to carry. However, glass wool has a harder structure than rock wool.
7. Cost
The difference between rock wool and glass wool is also about cost. If you have a limited budget, you can choose glass wool as an insulation material. In fact, glass wool is an insulation material that can cost a little less than rock wool. It is also suitable for use in heat and sound insulation in homes, as well as in items that do not have high temperatures.
8. Water Resistance
Rockwool is highly resistant to moisture and water. Therefore, rot, fungus and mold do not cause problems. Glasswool is also moisture resistant, but it is not as resistant as rockwool. For this reason, rockwool and glasswool have different properties in terms of water resistance.
9. Fire Resistance
Both insulation materials are fire resistant. However, rockwool has a much better fire resistance than glasswool. In this sense, rockwool can provide excellent protection against fire.
10. Sound Insulation
Both glasswool and rockwool have a structure that can prevent noise. However, rockwool has a much higher density and weight, making it a stronger sound insulation than glasswool. Therefore, rockwool is generally preferred for noisy areas.
