2025 Price: Is Rockwool Cheaper than Fiberglass?

When comparing the prices of rockwool and fiberglass insulation, several factors come into play, including material costs, installation fees, and long-term energy savings. Here’s a breakdown of their price differences in 2025:

Material Cost

• Fiberglass Insulation: Generally, fiberglass is less expensive than Rockwool (also known as mineral wool) insulation. It is widely available and typically costs between $0.40 and $1.00 per square foot, depending on the type (batts, rolls, or loose-fill) and brand.
• Rockwool Insulation: Rockwool tends to be pricier, ranging from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot. The higher cost is due to the manufacturing process and the materials involved, such as volcanic rock and basalt.
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Performance and Efficiency:

While rockwool is more expensive, it is often considered a better performer in terms of fire resistance, soundproofing, and thermal insulation. It has superior durability and is water-resistant, which may justify the higher price in certain applications.

Installation Costs

• Fiberglass: fiberglass insulation is lighter and easier to handle, so installation costs tend to be lower.
• Rockwool: Rockwool is denser and heavier, which can result in slightly higher installation costs, as more labor may be needed to handle and install it.
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Long-Term Savings

• Although Rockwool costs more initially, it offers better energy efficiency in terms of thermal and acoustic performance. This can lead to savings on heating and cooling bills over time, potentially offsetting the higher upfront costs.
• Fiberglass, being less dense, may not offer the same level of insulation as Rockwool in certain climates or applications, potentially leading to higher long-term energy costs.

Conclusion

Fiberglass is typically cheaper upfront, but rockwool might offer better value for specific needs due to its higher performance in terms of fire resistance, soundproofing, and durability. The choice between the two depends on your specific insulation needs, local climate, and budget.