Fiberglas Pink or Roxul Insulation?

Brief discussion on the merits of both types of insulation.
Canadian price at home depot is (2x4 walls) Pink=$53.50 for 97.9 Sq Ft and Roxul is $56.69 for 59.7 Sq Ft so that's roughly twice as much cost or 1/2 as much product. The bags are a similar size but Roxul won't compress as much as Fiberglass so the bags have roughly 1/2 as much product inside.

[@anothergoogleuser]

Roxul (rockwoll) also has the advantage of being a better sound dampener, more water resistant (as you mentioned), holds itself in place better (without staples in most cases), and is a slightly better insulator. When you say it costs more, it does; however, when the labor cost does not go up, it is a better investment. Thanks for sharing.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Absolutely! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@wildmanofthewynooch7028]

Rockwool will pay for itself. it does not sag, lose its R-value, it is fire resistant over all other insulation products and the 50% increase in insulation cost is pennies over the next 7-10 years

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I couldn't agree more! Cheers! Rob

[@BibleExposition2022]

Roxul is very dense, F glass is very soft and hollow. There is no comparison between the two. Roxul insulates far better in fire protection, sound, water and insect repel also. It is easy to install too.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Precisely!

[@johnward5890]

I had the pink in the north wall in my home built in 1990 and had to renovate a room into a bathroom so i remover the drywall to replace it with Mold board and when i opened the wall i noticed the Black staining of the pink insulating where Air was leaking throw the wall and the room was always cold but decided to change it to rock wool and found the room much easier to heat and keep warm in the winter and is the coolest room in the summer. When i renovated the basement i used rock wool ( Roxul) and the basement is much warmer in the winter than it use to be. I fine it cut my hydro heat bill down too. So the extra cost is recouped over time and you are more comfortable while you are recouping the costs.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks John! I appreciate your comment and I'm glad to hear real life experiences with the product. Cheers! Rob

[@SciaticaDrums]

Rockwool/Roxul is amazing. I used it renovating a mobile home we have on our 2nd property. Fire proof. Water proof. Bug proof. Mouse proof. Sound insulation properties. You cannot beat it. I will never use anything else. I also has a higher R value.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Exactly! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@shantanupethe]

thanks for video. Do we need to cover this rockwool insulation with cloth or ply ... or to leave it open or just cover it with plastic ?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Rockwool should have a traditional 6 mil. vapour barrier on the inside of the structure behind the drywall. Good Luck with your reno! Rob

[@mb17477]

I have been told that you do not want a vapor barrier with Rockwool because it’s designed to breathe. It’s water repellent and that is traditionally what a vapor barrier is designed to protect the inside from moisture.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Vapour barrier is part of the building code (here in Canada anyway), so you have to use it. It prevents movement of air from the inside of your house to the outside. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@TheTamrock2007]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin I was wondering about a moisture barrier. Renovating our bathroom in Florida. Thanks for the video.

[@Itdontmatter69]

I used it for sound proofing but will the R-14 for 2x4 walls be ok for extreme cold weather ?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That meets the minimum building code here in Canada. Crazy eh?

[@andrebemba5319]

Can any uncovered piece of fibreglass placed to insulate the cheminey deteriorate the quality of air in the house?

[@Mogman150]

The benefits of water absorption, bug/insect control are one thing, but a fire test of a propane torch (3596 F) seems silly as the house would be gone. The other thing to consider is rockwool cost ~65% more.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

LOL! The torch is used by roxul for demonstrations at big box reno stores. After reviewing the differences between the insulation types I wanted to see if there was an actual difference in flammability. There quite obviously is a difference but I was pleasantly surprised the fibreglass didn't catch on fire. It had horrible off gassing and shrunk away from the flame but the most important thing was it didn't catch on fire. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@rikardekvall3433]

Depends on the way you build. A friend of mine had a wooden barn with 2 cars space and a smaller storage for his Honda PanAmerica, lawnmower and 3 dirt bikes. The barn was un-insulated. The storage was build as, drywall-2x4 studs-Rockwool-drywall. Walls and ceiling. Electric fault in the barn and fire caught it. Fire rescue let it burn down and save the main house. After the fire, the barn was gone but the storage remain. Drywall and 10% of the studs were burnt but the fire didn’t reach the inside. All bikes were ok. Everything inside was ok. If the storage had been insulated with fiber glass (witch melts at high temp) or foam, everything would have been gone. So stonewool is a no brainier. No moldes can grow on stonewool.

[@cooganalaska3249]

4:42 he says of Rockwool, "its not something that you might want in your house.... just in case of a fire..." What would you want in case of a fire? It seems like the whole point of the Rockwool is to be fire-resistant? What am I missing here?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

"That's something that you might want in your house"

[@davidbrogan606]

You didn't mention one of the great advantages of Roxul. It does not off-gas. It is completely inert even when it burns. In no way will it harm the indoor air quality.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Well, I'm not an expert in this field so I don't have all the info. Thanks for the additional info. Cheers! Rob

[@timarmsworthy9757]

Better test would be getting it wet, fibreglass is useless when wet. If it's going against cement use roxul and it's not twice the cost.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes, not twice the cost. I think someone sent me a breakdown and it was 30% more expensive??? I do think that if your insulation is wet you have bigger problems than R value. LOL! Thanks for your comment Tim! Merry Christmas! Rob

[@justinballard7242]

For my house it's 22-2500 for mineral wool and 1300 for fiberglass

[@bernardbourque8384]

From Canada: As a Fire Protection Engineer, the fire test segment of this video does not come remotely close to identifying a "clear winner". Both products react differently to a "high intensity" fire situation. The focus of the test should have been on the release of highly toxic gases and substances, smoke generation within a confined space (i.e. a kitchen or bedroom) both at the incipient stage of the fire, mid-stage and full blown fire stage and if the products of combustion contribute to fatalities - This is just an observation from a neighbor North of your American border, eh!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

This has been popular video with many comments and questions. I may elaborate in the future on this subject but alas, I don't have a laboratory full of chemical testing equipment. The clear winner refers to the fire resistance of the roxul and the amount of off gassing of the fiberglas pink. Also Roxul has a better R value, is easier to work with, less dusty, less vapour permeable, water resistant, mould resistant, pest and rodent resistant and holds its shape better (more dense with less sag) And yes I'm also Canadian... Cheers! Rob

[@bernardbourque8384]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin BTW, I agree with you that Rockwool insulation is a more manageable system. I'm using Rockwool Comfortbatt at my cabin in southern British Columbia

[@Grayback1973]

Hi, I'm going to be closing up a sunroom that has no insulation at all. I was planning on insulating the 3 walls with r13 but leaving the attic and floor uninsulated. Do you think this will work out ok? I'm going to be using a portable AC-Heater unit that vents to the outside.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Here is some very thorough reading material. www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/make-your-home-more-energy-efficient/keeping-the-heat/section-2-how-your-house-works/15630

[@lightbulb1982]

I personally prefer to work with Pink way over Roxul for numerous reasons. Way easier to cut and far lighter and as long as you cut it right and install it properly without compressing it, I feel it works much better too because as it relaxes it also swells up to fit the cavity better than Roxul, as Roxul will never swell up and only stay in the shape you cut it too and your installation, not to mention the cost... Therefore, other than Pink holding moisture, I would insulate my place with Pink, and yes, regardless of Pink or Roxul or white or whatever insulation you use, other than spray foam, vapor barrier has to be installed wherever it's code

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes you have to cut roxul a little larger than the cavity to ensure a tight fit. Pink is 1/2 the price. The price is really the only thing I like about the fibreglass. Thanks for your comment! It's important to have other perspectives to help people make educated decisions. Cheers! Rob

[@hellohi177]

wait I thought building code is R20 now. Unless you're grandfathered in...

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

You can’t get R20 in a 2x4 wall - so yes essentially grandfathered. Not sure what minimum code is now. This house was an electric house from 1984. I’ve been working on all sorts of upgrades. Even the original poly was only 3 mill.

[@thomasschafer7268]

In germany KZbin Cannes buy Knauf Fiber or rockwool. Butter products come from steico Ort pavatex. They are the öko products out of wood and Energy for production is a lot of lower transparent rockwool.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

There are many new and cool technologies coming out. Germany is known for technical innovations. Unfortunately I’m just using what’s available to me here in Canada in the big box stores. Thanks for your comment! I’m looking forward to many new building innovations. Keep up the good work Germany!!! Cheers! Rob

[@SquirrelsForAll]

Great video, thanks!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@massimo7219]

Does spray foam do a better job than the Roxul for insulation ?

[@EJRYON47]

Spray foam has an R-value of 6.5 per inch, which = a 22.75 R-value for 2x4 wall.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I'm a big fan of spray foam but it's more expensive and you may have to vacate the house for a day or two because of the fumes. Cheers! Rob

[@massimo7219]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin thanks Rob !

[@Mint-cb2vc]

​@@massimo7219 just be aware of some dodgy companies, apparently it's very easy to stuff up a job with spray foam if not done properly. Then a house is damaged and unusable because of toxins build up. Check it up on youtube before considering

[@massimo7219]

@@Mint-cb2vc Thank you, I appreciate the advice.

[@VanitySoft]

Hi I have a furnace closet this looks like it could be safe to use ?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

It's the safest for heat and flammability for sure but just follow your owners manual about safe wall spacing. Cheers! Rob

[@villagelady1009]

Yes. In fact, it's used to insulate boilers. You need to install it with the clearances required by the furnace manufacturer and your building code but, as the other poster says, it's the safest one to use in that situation.

[@hockeyman1]

How about sound difference between the two

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Unfortunately I don't really have a good set up or the time for a good sound test. When My basement is done I will see if it's worth adding the safe and sound insulation (I insulated all interior walls and ceiling). Hoping for the best! Cheers! Rob

[@bcash1994]

Roxul will outperform fiberglass every time, anywhere. It is better for thermal, and sound per inch and also is fire rated and can be used around hot surfaces like fireplaces etc.

[@sirensynapse5603]

Built two tiny houses, same insulation thickness on both, same size house. Glass in one, rockwool in the other. Glass literally let a wet towel freeze to the floor. Rockwool was ALWAYS warm or no worse than cool to the touch, even in brutal winter temps. The R value of glass is total bullshit. They manipulate it somehow, because real world is, it's shit. Glas lets air move merrily through it, creating a convection current that moves heat from warm to cold side, stripping heat out 24/7. It's a joke.

[@salvatoreburgaretta9401]

the audio is way to low

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I bought a wireless mic so my new videos are much clearer.

[@ThermorockMexico]

green shield by thermorock

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I'll check it out

[@ThermorockMexico]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin kzbin.info/www/bejne/n52tY36FYp1njtE

[@ThermorockMexico]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/n52tY36FYp1njtE

[@ratoneJR]

Roxul all the way

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

YES! Cheers! Rob

[@johng8049]

Skips the part about how good it is with sound and rodents wont nest in it

[@josephbohme7917]

fire sound mold soggy absorbing the bunch of negatives with fiberglass- he does little to inform the value of WHY USE roxul. Quality ALWAYS costs more up front. But it is worth it for a homeowner not a Flipper or landlord, who pays no utility bills

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Totally agree! Cheers! Rob

[@RocksNRuts4]

pink SHOULDNT burn, its glass, but the paper back will burn....

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes it kinda shrinks and stinks but doesn't burn. There is no paper backing in Canada because it doesn't meet our vapour barrier code.

[@scoobydoo7346]

Is roxul better for specific weather?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Both types are not affected by weather. Roxul is better insulation but 2X more expensive.

[@pau1976]

Cold weather will create a temperature difference between your home and the outside and the humidity will flow with the air trying to cross the wall (from your warm home to the cold outside). Stone wool is better at dealing with humidity trying to cross it (it will dry it out), while fiberglass can get surrounded by mould in worst case scenario. This means, cold and humid weathers can potentially benefit from stone wool due to its vapour retardation properties. Check also for vapour barriers

[@villagelady1009]

It works in all but is especially nice in humid environments, since it has no starch binder (as a lot of fiberglass does) to support mold growth when moisture permeates it; as the previous person stated, it just dries out on its own. Mine cost about 25% more than fiberglass would have been (for the entire house), not twice as much. However, after 10 years it has proven so energy efficient (along with other benefits) that I now know it would have been worth paying a higher price for it.

[@bobyad4879]

Too quiet, can't hardly!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I have invested in a microphone and a video camera that supports it. My new video's are all easier to hear. Cheers! Rob

[@1971dave]

Umm

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Hey Dave, the rest of your comment didn't come through. Yes there are 2 types of roxul insulation. "Comfort Batt" for insulation and "Safe and Sound" for sound insulation. The Fiberglass pink insulation (R12) was in the home already with a 3 mil poly. I removed it and used roxul comfort batt.(R14) and a 6 mil poly with acoustical sealant on every stud and plate. That one fibreglass was jammed in way too tight. I did the fire test as a comparison of the 2 products. The Roxul was obviously better but I'm surprised that the fibreglass performed as well as it did. However the off gassing was quite bad. I'm in the process of renovating the basement as it had a few issues and the only way to get a good look at it is to remove everything. Might as well make some changes and upgrades at the same time. ( PS. I added more description for other readers - you obviously know about the different types of insulation and I'm glad to hear that you value good workmanship, which unfortunately, is becoming rather rare these days) Cheers! Rob

[@giovannidicapo6213]

You lost me after "twice as much".. bye

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes its more expensive but the fire performance could save your life so it's a tough call really. Cheers! Rob

[@tomcrowley1122]

I am insulating my basement and it is only $630 (34%) more for the roxul. That is money well spent IMO.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Totally agree! Cheers! Rob

[@kkarllwt]

Some people think of the future and are willing to pay for a well built environment. Some people are cheap and live day today. That is why there is a mobile home industry. Your 'home' has a nice skirt.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

kkarllwt Lol! Totally Agree! Cheers! Rob

[@victorseal9047]

Rockwooled all my house and I’ve never regretted it for one minute.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Awesome! Thanks for your comment Victor! Cheers! Rob

[@confidentlocal8600]

In the attic too?

[@bodinian]

I'm considering doing it because I'm a light sleeper with strong senses. How would it perform in a city environment with lots of street noise?

[@acousticpick]

just wondering, did you add a vapor barrier to it?

[@dngriffiths8105]

@@bodinian It's fantastic. Go for it.

[@leadersingreenassets4173]

It's worth mentioning how radically the r-value goes down in fiberglass as temperatures drop and how bugs like to nestle in it.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I'm not so sure about R value fluctuations but I do know bugs and mice have no problem making homes in the Fiberglass Pink. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@davidbrogan606]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin You need to read this. www.lamitindustries.com/literature/rvalue.pdf

[@_DixonCider]

Also, once the fiberglass is matted by getting wet or compressed you lose a lot of your R value.

[@PlayaflyJoe27]

Just used Roxul in my basement in the ceiling joist and along the wall. The fellas and I sit in the basement playing the drums, guitars and the keys and everyone upstairs is oblivious to what we're doing if the vents are closed down there also. Roxul is definitely worth the money!!!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Awesome! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@attocoulomb]

I used in in internal walls (the version which is supposed to be better for soundproofing) between bedrooms and adjacent bathrooms and living room. Seems to help. Used fiberglass in ceilings and external walls.

[@Jordanwoodworking]

If you put it in the basement ceiling, would you need to put drywall over it. Thanks in advance

[@Samchaz]

@@Jordanwoodworking I'd definitely seal with drywall if it's on your ceiling to prevent gravity from causing sag down the road.

[@Jordanwoodworking]

@@Samchaz thanks

[@Trainman0401]

Wish I knew about Roxul years ago. Used pink for years in two homes and was always disappointed with its insulating capabilities. So much heat is lost through the receptacles with the pink. The Roxul would be much better as you demonstrated. Thanks again for another helpful video.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@onlydarian]

Roxul is always winning, in my unprofessional opinion

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I agree! Cheers! Rob

[@psychobunny32]

we used Roxul in ceiling and crawl space during renovations and will never use fiberglass again. Absolutely happy with the Roxul.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Awesome! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@DONALD1951]

Missy Rabbit did you have to install a plastic vapor barrier between it and the walls. Especially in the crawl space I’m wondering

[@confidentlocal8600]

Curious about the vapor barrier too.

[@millanferende6723]

May I ask why you would never use fiberglass? What's wrong with fiberglass? Have you experienced any negative effects from it? I am planning on doing a renovation, so a feedback would be really appreciated. 🙏

[@ismellfunny67]

@@millanferende6723 Like they said in the video it provides a better block to air movement, and resists moisture better. Most people really like it for it's soundproofing qualities, though. If for example you have an older home with a furnace and such in the attic, roxul may be the way to go. I just bought my first home and am replacing really old degraded blow in insulation in the attic with fiberglass batts. I'm also thoroughly air sealing with expanding foam, and am not worried about soundproofing. Just depends on your situation, and what you want from your remodel.

[@Random-rt5ec]

I used Roxul to soundproof & insulate a portable generator box. Only $20 @ HomeDepot, Waterproof & a great sound deadening properties made it an awesome choice.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Good Idea!

[@andydaddy2009]

I have been going room to room taking out fiberglass..bees, yellowjackets, ants love it..so do mice. insects can't dig thru roxul.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Awesome!

[@philindeblanc]

I heard the opposite and from what I have seen, which is 99.5% fiberglass, it is very rare I see insects in it. Give us some details on this if you dont mind. Could be the type of insects and or environment..

[@tonyradca1235]

I have a house built in 1950. I found that none of the exterior walls were insulated. My wife and i decided to add on to the house as we loved the location and we owned the lot next to us as well. As part of our addition project, we had rock wool insulation blown into the walls of the existing structure before we put up siding on the entire house. Even with the addition (which doubled our square footage) our heating bills in the winter were less then what we paid with no addition. I strongly recommend that if you live in an older home, have it inspected to see what insulation you do or do not have.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That goes to show how important insulation really is. Thanks for sharing your story. Enjoy your renewed home! Cheers! Rob

[@NoName-be5ir]

I bought a house from the 30,s well built sturdy home still to this day. But no insulation in any of the exterior walls, recon wood interior walls helped but also striped down for new wiring, windows, doors. I’ll look into it as well cause also putting an addition to double our sqft. Thanks for the info.

[@randrade89]

Exactly what I was looking for! Thanks!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

You're welcome!

[@phase3d]

Audio to low to hear!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I had invested in a new camera for better video but it turns out the mic was not sensitive and didn't accept an eternal microphone. So $800 later... I now have another new camera and a new wireless mic. There goes more renovation money... Cheers! Rob

[@QiuyuanChenRyan916]

6 months into construction I found my love in Mineral Wool, it virtually stay in shape despite a water leak and still fireproof.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Awesome! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@MrMofe.T]

For a studio soundproofing, which would you recommend. Blocking out sound completely from going in or coming out of the room. Secondly, where can you get to buy them from?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Best is a room within a room. Roxul safe and sound insulation is good for between the studs. You can run resilient channel across the studs and attach the drywall to it (to lessen sound transmission through the wood studs). You can also get special sound resistant drywall. Good Luck with your studio! Cheers! Rob

[@SpiritBear12]

Other benefits of Roxul are mice don't like to nest in it, neither do insects like ants, termites, bees. Because it resists water it doesn't rot or mold and it's a better sound barrier than fiberglass and doesn't sag in time inside the walls keeping the insulation value longer than fiberglass does.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Totally! Cheers! Rob

[@denysmotornyi5623]

Well..actually insects like rockwool ) I had to perform some repaiments in may attic and when I removed insulation (made by Rockwool here in EU) I found there a lot of ladybugs and moths. I am sure mice can also nest in it easially ) Well, and cats as well :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHqUmKVpebanhNE

[@villagelady1009]

110-year-old house completely insulated with rockwool and lowered heating and cooling load dramatically. Am in a flood zone and wanted a material which can be flooded (this is, and it self-drains in the post and beam construction of this house), is pest resistant (lots of invasive bugs here), non-flammable (vs. closed cell foam) as fires are common in this area, breathable and diy-able. The house does not have standard 16" centered bays, so used 24" wide bats cut to fit on the horizontal planes (floors and roof) where self-support was needed (no stapling, netting, or other means needed and it's still in place with no sagging after 10 years), and loosefill to 6 lb density in walls (yes, it stays in place until the wall finish is put up) and ceilings. Cost was only about 25% higher than fiberglass (not twice as much, as this video states), perhaps because I bought from a wholesaler and it included delivery; had much much more gain in benefit for that additional cost. It has performed well for a decade and I don't have to worry about outgassing from foam or any of the other detriments of other materials.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That's Fantastic! It really is a good product. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@villagelady1009]

You're welcome. Thanks for your response. It would benefit so many people to know about this product, especially since spray foam is so appealing to many ... but, because it's an accelerant in a fire, is so scary for firefighters.

[@cairnsandy1]

the Roxul also works well at reducing outside sound , or inter room sound , nothing is perfect at blocking sound but the Roxul works quite good.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Absolutely!

[@Josh-mh3kl]

spray foam has no sound dampening ability. I spray foamed my house and i can hear everything. it's really terrible

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Really! I would never have thought that would be an issue. Thanks for the info!

[@sissymurphy9620]

bonus mice and bugs do not like it and it does not harbor mold and does not get wet and R value is better /always worth it to save money as utility rates are not going down

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

All good points! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@curtisbme]

I'm all about the rock wool for the reasons you mentioned and for the additional sound attenuation (just went through about 20-30 bags while redoing my basement using it on all exterior (r23), interior and ceiling spaces (safe n' sound). The vapor barrier here would be a concern, depending on where you are at, especially as it is just a plastic sheet. Plastic sheets seem to cause as much if not more problems in my limited experience. Good recent video done by Matt Risinger on the topic recently: kzbin.info/www/bejne/p2nJgIB4ocubaaM

[@curtisbme]

And a related video on Roxul from Matt from last year on Roxul's promo stuff at a builders show. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qZuxlIF6q8tsfrM

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks for the Links and your comments Curtis. Enjoy your new basement living space! Cheers! Rob

[@confidentlocal8600]

Curtis, I've been researching the same questions. I can pay a pro to insulate a few rooms with dense-pack cellulose (the same type of insulation that was in the home originally) or do rock wool myself. The sheathing is fiberboard with brick veneer--what building scientists call "reservoir cladding." I wish I could find a long-term study on these types of insulation when a vapor retarding sheet is omitted. The original wall assembly in my home had no separate vapor retarder and zero mold or moisture issues--but it was cellulose.

[@ernestobruno5733]

0

[@ernestobruno5733]

0

[@iveywin]

Having renovated a few homes the major benefit of Roxul not mentioned is that is more dense and makes for a quieter home and is far better for noise suppression inside and out. Roxul is the way to go!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I'm with you! Cheers! Rob

[@malikto1]

A lot of fiberglass installs have the paper backing attached which will dramtically increase fire spread.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That should be fire rated though or it wouldn't pass code.

[@paulwilton735]

Installed Rockwool in my new workshop, will never go back to fiberglass.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I hear ya! Cheers! Rob

[@BurntTransistor]

Standard Rockwool (Roxul) batts use a phenol formaldehyde binder that off-gasses and is carcinogenic. They do make a cleaner version (AFB EVO) but it nearly impossible to find. Fiberglass insulation is already formaldehyde-free. Until Rockwool gets their act together, I would steer clear of it. Give it a few years and all of their product will be formaldehyde-free.

[@amarketing8749]

Thank You!!! I was considering Roxul, specifically to eliminate offgassing/VOC in a new home. I get migraines occassionally and headaches frequently, but formaldehyde and new construction in general will instantly create a migraine. Ive gone into LEED certified libraries over a year after they were built and immediately hit with new building chemical smell... UGH.... How can it be "green" if it pollutes the air you breathe.

[@msclbndfrk1]

10) Does ROCKWOOL contain formaldehyde? Standard ROCKWOOL products do currently use a phenol formaldehyde binder during production. During manufacturing, the binder is cured at very high temperatures leaving only trace amounts in the product after it is produced. ROCKWOOL AFB®, SAFE’n’SOUND®, and COMFORTBATT® have all achieved GREENGUARD GOLD status for indoor air quality. ROCKWOOL also offers a no added formaldehyde product, AFB evo™, starting July 1st 2017. This product is produced with a new formaldehyde free binder, and retains all of the properties of the original AFB® product. Please contact your local specifications manager for more information.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks Byron!

[@kamalakrsna]

oh ... tnx 4 mentioning that

[@OurBackwoodsHomestead]

I totally agree Roxul is the best but yes its more money. I used it my recording studio 6" and in some booths 15 inches. Good job!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Cool! Thats super thick!

[@DruGaTecH]

What about if I make about 3 layers of fiberglass (50mm each) to make it more dense?!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

You can get fibreglass in common sizes for 2x4, 2x6 walls. They have "optimized" the density for the product already. Best bet is to make walls thicker or add foam to the outside of the wall. Good Luck with your build! Cheers! Rob

[@philindeblanc]

if you compact fiberglass it actually drops R value as you are not letting air work as a insulator and introducing conductivity. Glass is a pretty good conductor and if you densify it it will amplify. Not a good idea. Best to use polyisocyanurate foam in dual sheets with air pocket, next best is lesser foams and then Roxul.

[@Claudio55278]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin I red that if a system (wall, window, door or other) is more complex, with more elements it will work better than one single element. Somehow they work together and the end result is higher. Like foam between bricks, box of air between walls and roxul inside. Have you ever heard that?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

@@Claudio55278 yeah it can, depends on the combination and the reasoning and the needs of the area. Just like how building codes vary by area.

[@mikemcdonald5147]

the roxul is more dense and more sound retardant. We use it in walls for sound booths and recording studios to keep outside sounds out of the recording studio.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes, far better sound absorption.

[@practicalguy973]

Spray foam can be nice but what happens if you want to remodel or change some things. Its a mess as its bonded to the structure and also it can be very toxic as CBC uncovers the horror stories of when it goes wrong here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZnnLZoCPq5yfjcU

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes thanks for the link. I saw that on the news before. Renovations would be much harder if you had to work around the spray foam. Cheers! Rob

[@ryanselleck6035]

I work for a building material supplier and we do not even sell pink anymore. Pink just falls or settles over time and leaves uninsulated areas. Rockwool is what I use in every one of my jobs. Also the rockwool comfort board that comes in 4x8 sheets is the way to go if you need sound proofing. It’s amazing!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I'm surprised you don't sell pink but totally agree Roxul is a superior product!

[@lohengrinknight]

What about vapor barrier with roxul?

[@farnorthhomested844]

thank you for the video. I thought the fiberglass would light right up by the other videos I watched. will use ROXWOOL because of its ability not to take in moisture. amazing how things are progressing in housing! oh yeah, rodents don't like roxwool!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes I thought so too! I was surprised by the result. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@rupe53]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin … Insulation, by code, must not support combustion. What that means is the insulation may distort or melt, but must not burn on it's own once the flame is taken away. You will notice that fiberglass with paper backing MUST be covered by wallboard for code, (quite often printed on the paper) because the paper is combustible. Same goes for covering insulation with poly / plastic sheet. It must be covered by wallboard to meet code. People think they are slick by using common (read: cheap) Styrofoam but it doesn't meet fire code.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

@@rupe53 Do you mean leaving the styrofoam open in a garage? People do that and not insulate further and don't bother drywalling because of expense. Definitely not to code. But it's cheap, fast, easy and effective. The foam has a higher R value per inch than fibreglass and roxul. Thanks for the fire rating info/clarification. That's good info! Cheers! Rob

[@toddjerseyarchitectureinc.8059]

A LOT more dense

[@golfinguna]

Both of these insulations should have k values attached. Never compress insulation. If you pack it into a space too tightly you will reduce its qualities.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes. The fibreglass pink is really squeezed in the example. I replaced all of it with roxul when I renovated. Cheers! Rob

[@boots7859]

True, however if you want you can but the thicker pink stuff with the higher R-value and squish it in to fit. It won't have the advertised R-value, however it will be somewhere between the standard thickness and the higher R-value. So you end up with a higher R-value than using the standard thickness.

[@westonspencer616]

Are you guys using a vapor barrier and basement walls with Rock wool?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

It's a raised bungalow so the wood studs sit on the cement foundation wall. Those are insulated (removed fibreglass pink and installed roxul) with the vapour barrier on the inside was per building code. I insulated the foundation wall with a sheet of foam on the wall and 2" foam on the cement wall top, built a 2x4 wall in front of the cement wall and ran utilities in the wood wall. I then insulated the wood wall with roxul and finished with drywall. Here is the video link which shows what I did... kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWXce5mjfKipqJo Cheers! Rob

[@2awesome292]

Rockwool > cellulose > fiberglass

[@steventorres9862]

Hey man.. I'm trying to make a recording booth (with plywood and 2 ×4 ) in my closet.. (I live in an apartment with a very bad soundproof) what insulation should I put between the play wood?? Thanks

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Roxul safe and sound is the best product our there. You can also decouple your walls using resilient channel for drywall and use "soundproof" drywall. There are also some decoupling framing techniques if you want to reframe it. Best of luck! Cheers! Rob

[@davefoc]

Awhile ago I looked at the safe and sound Roxul sound for sound proofing. The specs suggested it wasn't that great but better than nothing as I recall. If you're talking sound booth some of the Rob's other ideas seemed like something you need to think about. There are some other approaches as well, but none of them are free.

[@rsz90182]

5:30 It's the paper backing that burns, not the actual pink material.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

@@rsz90182 We don’t have faced insulation here in Canada. I was surprised that it didn’t burn. It disappeared but it didn’t catch on fire and spread.

[@derkyderk1900]

I imagine it would be pretty hard if not impossible to run wiring if needed through the Roxul. Any feedback is appreciated.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Any insulation is difficult to run wires through. I would always advise cutting out drywall and running wires properly and reinstalling insulation, vapour barrier and drywall. Cheers! Rob

[@chrisolsen4578]

Run wires and pipes in a separate service layer 2x2 infront of the vapour barrier

[@brionbee]

I just ran it in my kitchen and bathroom and cutting around all the plumbing, wiring and boxes was super easy, barely an inconvenience

[@ZowwyZowwyZowwy]

Hello, how many years have you been doing this type of work with fiberglass?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I removed the fibreglass and replaced it with roxul. Much better product in my opinion. Most homes are insulated with fibreglass pink because it was most widely available and the least expensive. Roxul is a newer product and has a higher R value. It’s also more expensive.

[@kyleconger2109]

Ruxul, you sold me on it.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

LOL! Cheers! Rob

[@mattvanlandingham8034]

Need better sound

[@iivii8986]

Youre not supposed to be breathing that fiberglass leaves little pieces of glass in your lungs

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I made the video before I started working on the basement for the day. When you make videos you can’t wear a mask (not just any mask but a dual cartridge respirator) and be able to hear the person wearing the mask talking.

[@sportguy17]

nice video

[@tripudium17]

Thanks for this comparison video I am looking to insulate my basement headers. The contractor who did repairs before used fiberglass on the walls. I like that Rockwool is easier to handle and cut.

[@rasmokey4]

Roxul, because the Pink stuff made me cough!!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Should always wear a good mask when doing this stuff but yes, pink is far more dusty and itchy.

[@orlarieper6175]

Try with Water instead 😊

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes, I should have included that in the comparison!

[@tripleh9985]

Should add a water test to your vid ?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes you are right! I should have but didn't think about it.

[@jamesstuart3346]

Can't hear the narration :(

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I was trying a new camera. Volume was terrible! I have a new camcorder and wireless mic now.

[@mothman-jz8ug]

Rock wool can be used as a fire block. Foam burns and gives off toxic fumes. Rock not only is better thermal insulator than fiberglass, it is vastly superior for sound blocking. Rock wool does not sag over time like fiberglass does. Rock is more expensive, but if you have the money, BUY IT. Remember, you will (hopefully!) be living with it for many years. It could save in the long run, and it will add tremendously to overall comfort.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Totally agree! Cheers! Rob

[@mattcbennett]

Where can you buy Roxul/rock wool that isn't 4 times the cost of fiberglass? I need 2,050 sq ft of 2x6 wall space. If I buy fiberglass it will cost me about $550. The cheapest I can find rock wool it would cost around $2,300. Can I buy online somewhere?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I did a quick price check at Home Depot in Ontario. 2000 Sq Ft. Roxul 2X6 R22 was 51 bags at $55.09 total was $2810 Fiberglass pink 2X6 R20 (R2 less than roxul) was 26 bags at $65.00 total was $1690 Now bulk pricing is available on these items and if you go to a local building supply store you may be able to negotiate a better deal. Good Luck with your build! Cheers! Rob

[@chrisolsen4578]

Rockwool has a much bettr value in real life because of its stability and density. Much less thermal drift no.mold growth better for sound fire thermal. Its quite cheap compared the the pink mess if you consider that its a premium.product Rockwoolpays for itself. I have 400 mm in celling and 250 mm in my walls 8 inch studs with 2x2 for electrical plumping etc.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes I think its a much better product too. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@kevinstenger4334]

Fiberglass only performs at its R rating if it is installed perfectly and if there is no air movement through the cavity, which almost never is the case in the real world so R value comparison in not accurate. Rockwool is easy to install correctly and performs at its rated R value. Research and lab testing has shown that in very cold climates where the temperature differential between the ceiling surface and the attic space is sufficient to create convective air currents through the fiberglass and it’s R value greatly deteriorates. If fiberglass gets wet it stays wet, Rockwool sheds water. Rodents love fiberglass, they can’t chew up and tunnel through Rockwool.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Exactly! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@jacobstrutner8232]

I'm itchy just from seeing fiberglass on my phone let alone in the same room with it. And cramming more fiberglass insulation into the space reduces the r value. It needs to be super fluffy to reach it's ratings

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

LOL! Yeah when I renovated the basement I removed the pink and put in the Roxul.

[@JahStyles]

Thanks super helpful!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

You're Welcome and Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@postmodgent1499]

Roxul keeps it shape, is moisture resistant, mould resistant, fire resistant, rodent resistant, insect resistant and easier to work with. Other than price what is so good about pink insulation?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Exactly!

[@discutiibiblice]

Jesus Christ, I thought behind was a normal wall in the distance. when he put his hand on it I realize it's close and small.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

LOL! Side split house...

[@johnward5890]

I have been using Roxul in between the wooden studs and the copper pipes while soldering them. I hate it when i see burn marks on stud and joist around pipes from plumbers being careless in tight areas. I have changed my home over to Roxul and find a difference in the heating bill.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That's a good point about burning the studs. You should see the house I'm in now. I can't believe the plumbers didn't burn the place down! Glad to hear the decrease in heating bill! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@johnsweda2999]

Rockwool is better between floors as a fire retardant the best sound dampening and isn't toxic. Cavity walls spray sheeps wool or paper treated.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I like the fire resistance of the rockwool for wall cavities also. It's dense and not prone to shrinking or settling like some of the spray in insulation. They also say that rodents don't like it. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@villagelady1009]

The problems with wool and paper are that they don't do well in a flood (I live in a flood zone), as they hold moisture and rodents and insects can move through paper (also common in my area). Worse than those problems, paper will fall out of a wall cavity in a fire and allow the fire to spread between rooms or up to an attic (therefore, to the whole house). Wool stays in place but it is flammable (takes a while but it will burn); and it has to be treated or moths will nest in it.

[@kylegohawks8604]

If you want to retire and live the rest of your life in the house. You might benefit from rockwool insulation in the walls. 2x6 2x8 not worth it. A remodel with 2x4 maybe. Use manual J and see how little it matters in walls. You are better off spending that money elsewhere

[@mainewoods1862]

In my area Roxul is 50% more money. The R value is almost Identical. If my insulation is on fire I think I have bigger problems.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I would use it unless it added too much cost to the project. You are completely right that people should evaluate all costs and allocate money for the best possible feature/cost/benefit ratio. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@kkarllwt]

@@mainewoods1862 *** for a fire to burn thru a Roxul insulated wall, the studs have to burn out. A fiberglass insulated wall will let hot gas go thru to the other side and burn thru. the wall. Watch some Roxul flame test videos. Roxul fits better and lets much less air circulation in a wall assembly. The whole wall r-value performance of Roxul wall justifies the price.

[@marysunshine8371]

I have a little bit of everything, pink, roux and polystyrene insulation (combustable)......but not enough for of either ones for a small room....can I mix it up? and is the combustable one safe indoors?.....thank you in advance

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes. Better to use it then put it in landfill. You will have a nice "protective" coat of drywall overtop of it anyway. Drywall is fire rated. (not fire proof but fire rated) Cheers! Rob

[@marysunshine8371]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin thanks

[@harvendarbains3864]

Thanks for posting this video....good information!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

You're Welcome! Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@donaldhollingsworth3875]

How does the Roxul insulation compare to Rockwool insulation?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Roxul is changing their name to Rockwool. So identical.

[@victorvek5227]

Do you still need to put the plastic / air barrier between the Roxul and the gypsum, like you had here with the fiberglass?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes, in my area that's part of the building code.

[@northernoutdoorsmandave9067]

Vapour barrier on the warm side

[@johndickerson536]

He needs to be closer to the Mike 8 can't hardly hear him.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

I bought a wireless mic so that problem is solved on all the newer videos.

[@odohertyenterprisesllc738]

4215 Driver Lane Suffolk VA 23435 done WITHOUT PERMITS..& an HVAC system..installed IN THE ATTIC...CHOPPING UP WHITE FIBERGLASS BATTS...AND DUMPING THE DUST ..IN TOTHE HOUSE ...SINCE 2008! MY MISTAKE...BUYING IT...SORRY FORCED TO BUY IT.....2 YEARS COUGHING UP FIBERGLASS ! STILL

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yeah that's an American thing. In Canada we have basements and put the utilities there. The HVAC should have sealed heat and cold air return lines so you don't have that issue. Have to get that fixed ASAP and have the ducts thoroughly cleaned. Best of Luck! Rob

[@villagelady1009]

If there is any nicotine in the air (if you or anyone else smokes), then you're not coughing it all up. Some is staying in your lung tissues.

[@mm-np9lt]

serious amount of your wall is made of wood, is it really worth considering what type of insulation you use? You need to insulate your house on the outside with 100-150mm of rigid insulation, your house will be warm.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes it makes a big difference but I totally agree with you on adding 2" or more of rigid foam insulation to the outside of the house to prevent thermal bridging. Personally I think that adding 2" of foam to the outside would give the most bang for the buck. Now Imagine using the best cavity insulation and adding the best foam insulation combined and think of how toasty warm you would be.

[@mm-np9lt]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin 2" ? Seriously? I wouldn't put 2" on my shed - waste of time, adhesive and silicone render. minimum 100mm of graphite polystyrene when a wall is made of porotherm or highly compressed heavy silica blocks or 150mm-200mm of white polystyrene at least EPS 50 need to be used, to achieve energy efficient house. We also pour every floor/ceilings of reinforced concrete even though we don't use attic space. This makes the building rigid and air tight. Wood home is all over the place, it's not sturdy, it moves under the wind load, they are cracks everywhere after couple of months. This draughts the warm air from the room and pull cold inside through the gaps. then your heating need to blast on full power and you still get parts of your house very cold. This is how we insulate houses in Europe. 100mm of EPS150 under no heating floor or 150mm under floor heating and 100mm EPS250 all around foundations. 400mm of dense rockwool under the roof or 200mm spray foam and this is only to meet regulations 95kWh/m2 a year norm. Some people build with much better insulation, if you want to meet ECO15 norm insulation and good building blocks are not enough. Your windows need to be very small with 3-4 panes usually filled with Xenon gas as its better than Argon and you need special door otherwise you won't be any close to ECO15 norm. New norm WT2021 (70kWh/m2 a year) also require from a house owner to use renewable energy source so you can't rely only on gas and grid electricity. From this year heat recovery, solar energy, wind and heat pumps will be selling like fresh rolls. Different world.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

@@mm-np9lt while that sounds wonderful no one here would be able to afford a house made like that. You would have to be a multimillionaire. Maybe the difference here is we have cheap fuel (heat) and expensive building materials and where you are you have cheap building materials and expensive fuel (heat). Do you have any videos of this type of construction? I’d be interested in taking a look. Cheers! Rob

[@kmjandrews3312]

Which one have more asbestos or kill the lungs 🫁 ?

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Neither one has asbestos and you should wear a good mask when installing both of them but I prefer Roxul. Higher R value, less dust when installing, tighter fit, rodents don’t like it, bugs don’t like it, water resistant and non flammable.

[@MintStiles]

Roxul is much better in practical terms even than foams. It's much less fussy and much more serviceable. Foam is one of those better get it right the first time or that's it situation.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yes I totally agree. I worry about the application of the foam. When it's done right it's impossible to beat! I do love the roxul for batt insulation. It's the best batt. Thanks for your comment! Cheers! Rob

[@MintStiles]

@@robsgaragewoodworkin at the end of the day having roxul is like making a very easily serviced vehicle with standard parts. It will be heavy and lack great gadgets but it will be. Reliable and serviceable. Foam is like a integrated newest and best car with all the cool features while getting great milage, but by god when stuff breaks or if you are trying to repair it after an accident. IMO anything better than the fiberglass stuff.

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

That's a good analogy!

[@SteS]

I'm an Architectural Technician and would usually specify a 35mm composite acoustic floor with 100mm ISOver between the floor joists and resilient channels and plasterboard ceiling. This stuff looks amazing so I shall be specifying this in any future projects. 👌

[@markhooker8520]

I don't understand "35mm composite acoustic floor with 100mm ISOver". Please provide links to these products. Thank you.

[@SteS]

@@markhooker8520 Sorry, I had a brain fart moment. The ISOver should be acoustic slab insulation. 100mm Rockwool RWA45 Slab will be great for this. The acoustic composite floor slab is this product the REDUC MICRO 17. There are many like it on the market. The 35mm stuff is a different product but same principle. *TYPICAL DETAIL FOR THIS* i.imgur.com/mgimlrc.png *REDUC MICRO 17* www.soundsolutionconsultants.co.uk/acoustic-materials/acoustic-flooring/reduc-micro-17/ *ROCKWOOL RWA45* www.rockwool.co.uk/product-overview/slab-products/rwa45-en-gb/

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Yeah I think it's currently the best available product. Thanks for your comment and further links. Cheers! Rob

[@nodd85]

Very cool channel, subbed!

[@robsgaragewoodworkin]

Thanks! Cheers! Rob