Home Insulation Materials Comparison
Compare thermal performance, costs, fire safety and environmental impact of different insulation materials
About Insulation Materials
Choosing the right insulation material is crucial for energy efficiency, comfort, and long-term performance. Different materials offer varying thermal properties, installation methods, environmental benefits, and cost considerations.
Best Performers
Best Thermal
Phenolic Foam
Most Cost-Effective
Cellulose
Most Eco-Friendly
Cellulose
Best Fire Rating
Cellulose
Material Performance & Cost Comparison
Cellulose
Made from recycled newspaper and cardboard, cellulose is an eco-friendly option treated with fire retardants. Popular for loft insulation and cavity filling.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 3.6 per inch
- Good (Treated) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 30+ years
- Recyclable material
Performance Ratings
Mineral Wool
Made from recycled glass or volcanic rock, mineral wool is one of the most popular insulation materials in the UK due to its excellent thermal performance and fire resistance.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 4.2 per inch
- Excellent (Non-combustible) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 50+ years
- Recyclable material
Performance Ratings
Lightweight foam boards made from expanded polystyrene beads. Popular for external wall insulation systems due to good insulation properties and affordability.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 3.8 per inch
- Fair (Combustible) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 50+ years
- Recyclable material
Performance Ratings
Reflective Foil
Multi-layer reflective insulation that works by reflecting radiant heat. Most effective in hot climates or for reducing summer heat gain.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 2.5 per inch
- Good fire resistance
- Lifespan: 20+ years
- Recyclable material
Performance Ratings
High-performance foam insulation available as spray-applied or rigid boards. Excellent thermal performance and air sealing properties make it ideal for difficult-to-insulate areas.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 6.0 per inch
- Fair (Combustible) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 25+ years
Performance Ratings
Natural Sheep Wool
Natural wool fiber insulation offering excellent thermal performance with moisture-regulating properties. Sustainable and safe option for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 3.8 per inch
- Good (Naturally fire retardant) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 50+ years
- Recyclable material
Performance Ratings
Phenolic Foam
High-performance rigid foam boards with excellent thermal properties and fire resistance. Often used where space is limited and maximum insulation is needed.
Key Benefits
- R-value: 7.0 per inch
- Excellent (Self-extinguishing) fire resistance
- Lifespan: 30+ years
Performance Ratings
Insulation Material Categories
Fibrous Materials
Made from glass or rock fibers. Excellent thermal performance, fire resistance, and sound absorption. Popular choices include mineral wool and fiberglass.
Foam Materials
Expanding foams that create air-tight seals. Superior thermal performance and moisture barriers. Includes spray foam and rigid foam boards.
Natural Materials
Eco-friendly options from renewable sources. Breathable, moisture-regulating properties. Includes sheep wool, cellulose, and cork.
Reflective Materials
Radiant barriers that reflect heat. Effective in hot climates and roof applications. Often combined with other insulation types.
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