Rockwool is an incredible product that has not received the attention it deserves. It is a natural product that is non-toxic and safe to use. It has a better R-value than fiberglass, and it can be made to fit many applications, primarily insulation. Also, for aquaculture and hydroponic operations, it has been found to be a beneficial material. It is resistant to water, pests, and the hand of time. And it is lightweight and easy to apply.
- What is Rockwool Made of? Rockwool is made from rock, which might be hard to believe, but that is where the name comes from. Basalt, a common form of volcanic rock, is heated in special conditions until molten and then spun similarly to synthetic fibres. After that, it is pliable enough to be made into forms useful for insulation.
- What is it Used For? Rockwool is mainly used for insulation; it can be used in walls, under decking, and concrete roof insulation (known as ฉนวนหลังคาคอนกรีต in Thai). It is a durable product that is nearly as resilient as the original rock. It also has become a favourite medium for hydroponics.
- What Happens When Rockwool gets Wet? Rockwool is incredibly resistant to water; for this reason, it has become useful in hydroponics, where it sits in water all the time. Wet insulation is a sign of an engineering problem, and extended wetness in your insulation can cause structural issues. But the Rockwool will be unaffected.
- Pests and Rockwool: Unlike fiberglass, which can be pest friendly, Rockwool is very rodent resistant. Rodents prefer more organic materials, and they will usually avoid Rockwool for nesting unless other conditions like food sources make it more attractive. It is not very appealing to insects either, that is not to say insects will not find a way to work around the Rockwool If it is an area they prefer for a nest.
- How Long Does Rockwool Last? Because Rockwool is a rock product, it is incredibly long-lasting. If properly utilized and left in place, there is no reason it shouldn’t outlast the building that it is protecting. Rockwool is also durable as a hydroponics medium. The only maintenance suggested is to treat with boiling water between uses to discourage fungus and bacteria.
Rockwool continues to gain popularity as an insulation material. It can be a lightweight barrier under roof tiles to block the heat, and it will not break down or cause any health concerns under normal usage. Rockwool is perfect for blocking heat from metal roofing.
