During times of extreme weather, it is important to have insulation to keep your spaces warm and cool. Most people think of fibreglass, but some unconventional alternatives can be just as effective. Learn about four materials you didn’t know you could use as insulation.
Old Denim Jeans
One of the most impressive facts about insulation is you can make it with old denim jeans! Denim insulation incorporates recycled material and has an R-value similar to fibreglass. It’s also safe, non-toxic, easy to install, and can make you feel good about giving new life to your old clothing and reducing textile waste in landfills.
Sheep Wool
Wool can be another effective insulation material, and sheep wool has unique temperature-regulating properties. This makes it ideal for helping you save on energy bills while living more sustainably. Wool is also moisture-resistant, which prevents mould growth and contributes to better indoor air quality.
Cork
Cork, commonly used as a wine bottle stopper, is another material you didn’t know you could use as insulation. This biodegradable material has natural insulating properties, thanks to the thousands of tiny air pockets that trap heat. Added benefits of using a cork include noise reduction, fire resistance, and mould and mildew resistance. Not to mention, cork can be the perfect complement to exposed walls or ceilings.
Straw
Straw bale construction involves stacking and securing bales of straw as walls, which is an ancient building technique with excellent insulating properties. The high R-value of straw bale walls can help you save money because you won’t have to call upon your HVAC system so much. As a bonus, straw bale construction is cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
These examples show that the insulation world is far more exceptional than you might have considered. Look into the various options available to keep your house at a comfortable temperature.
