Mineral wool performance
Whilst stone wool and glass wool are both types of mineral wool and both are typically non-combustible (Euroclass A1 and A2-s1, d0), their fire resistance performance characteristics differ. Whereas glass wool melts at around 600ºC, stone wool can withstand fire temperatures in excess of 1000°C and can be used to protect a building's structure for periods up to 4 hours.
ROCKWOOL stone wool is non-combustible. Even at high temperatures, it can maintain its structure and does not produce any significant toxic gases or smoke in the event of a fire. As well as being inherently fire resilient, stone wool can be used to restrict the heat of a fire passing through it.
The way ROCKWOOL stone wool is manufactured makes it water repellent and 'breathable', which, depending on building design, can help water vapour escape. If ROCKWOOL stone wool does get wet, it can return to its original insulation value once completely dry and is unlikely to need replacing.
Additionally, ROCKWOOL stone wool is made from inorganic materials, which don’t promote rot, corrosion, fungi or mould growth. ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation is circular by nature and can be fully recycled indefinitely with no loss of performance.
And due to its sound-absorbent structure, stone wool is a highly effective sound insulator.
ROCKWOOL stone wool comes in a range of thicknesses from 25mm to 250mm, including but not limited to 50mm, 75mm 100mm, 140mm and 150mm. Every application is different and the thickness needed depends on the thermal, acoustic and fire resistance requirements.
To help you decide on the best ROCKWOOL product for your project, you can use our U-value calculator or the acoustic calculator.
Health and Safety
There are no hazardous classifications associated with ROCKWOOL stone wool insulation. Please ensure you follow the product instructions when handling and installing the ROCKWOOL products.
For detailed information, see the ROCKWOOL Material Safety Data Sheet.
