Wool as a Natural Insulation
Insulation in homes, whether they are made from bricks and mortar or not, is a vital part of life. Designed to fit in various roof, wall and floor cavities, this material has been part of our life for what feels like forever. But did you know that sheep’s wool is one of the best options you can go with as it’s durable, resistant to breaking and it’s not abrasive either?
Once the fleece has been sheared from a sheep and its intended use is for commercial needs, it gets graded. Wool that’s too coarse for use in textiles often ends up as an insulation material. Once the wool has been treated to comply with flammable testing (often an anti-bug repellent added too) it’s ready to go into product as insulation.
Wool Regulates Temperature & Moisture
Sheep’s wool is an excellent thermal insulator. It has a high R-value, which measures the material’s resistance to heat transfer. It helps to trap air pockets within its fibres, creating an effective barrier against heat loss during cold weather and heat gain during hot weather. Wool fibres can absorb and release moisture vapour, helping to regulate humidity levels inside buildings. This property allows wool insulation to maintain a more comfortable and healthier indoor environment by preventing excessive condensation and mold growth.
Wool is Resistant to Fire and Sound
Wool is naturally fire-resistant due to its high protein content and moisture retention capabilities. It has a high ignition temperature and doesn’t melt or release toxic fumes when exposed to flames, making it a safer choice for insulation. Another benefit of wool is its excellent sound-absorbing properties, which can help reduce noise transmission between rooms or from outside.
Pest and Mold Resistance and Hypoallergenic too!
Wool has inherent resistance to pests such as moths and mites, reducing the risk of infestation. Alongside this, wool’s moisture-regulating properties make it less susceptible to mold and mildew growth compared to synthetic insulation materials. Wool is naturally hypoallergenic and doesn’t cause allergies or respiratory issues for most people. It doesn’t release harmful volatile organic compounds or fibres into the air, making it a safer option for individuals with sensitivities.
Wool is Sustainable
Sheep’s wool is a renewable resource as it grows back every year when sheep are sheared. It is also biodegradable and doesn’t release harmful gases or chemicals into the environment. Using wool as insulation promotes sustainability and reduces the carbon footprint.
So many amazing reasons to seriously consider using wool as insulation, and for us at Blackdown Shepherd Huts it’s the most natural, logical and authentic choice for us to work with.