Fiberglass vs Mineral Wool Insulation: Which Is Right for Your Home?
Sunday, 05/18/2025
Discover the differences between fiberglass vs mineral wool insulation with FUNAS. Learn which insulation type suits your home's needs best, comparing thermal performance, safety, and cost to make an informed choice.
Preface
In the world of modern construction and green building, insulation plays a critical role in ensuring energy efficiency, comfort, and safety. When choosing insulation materials, two contenders often top the list: fiberglass and mineral wool. Both offer excellent performance in thermal protection and sound absorption, but each comes with its own strengths and trade-offs.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the core differences between fiberglass vs mineral wool insulation, explore their best applications, and help you determine the right choice for your home or commercial project.
What is Fiberglass Insulation?
Fiberglass insulation is made from fine strands of glass that are spun into a fluffy, wool-like material. It is one of the most commonly used types of insulation in residential and commercial buildings due to its affordability and decent thermal resistance.
Available in batts, rolls, and loose-fill forms, fiberglass insulation is widely appreciated for its ease of installation and compatibility with various structural designs. It’s especially popular in attic insulation and wall cavities.
Beyond its cost-effectiveness, fiberglass is resistant to moisture absorption, helping prevent mold growth under normal conditions. However, it must be installed with care, as fibers can irritate the skin, eyes, and lungs if proper protective gear isn’t used.
What is Mineral Wool Insulation?
Mineral wool, sometimes referred to as rock wool or stone wool, is manufactured by melting basalt rock or industrial slag and spinning it into dense, fibrous mats. The result is a fire-resistant, water-repellent insulation material with high thermal and acoustic properties.
Mineral wool insulation typically comes in batts and rigid boards and is prized for its rigidity, making it easier to install without sagging. It also boasts a higher R-value per inch compared to fiberglass, offering better insulation performance in tighter spaces.
Because it is non-combustible and can withstand temperatures above 1000°C (1800°F), mineral wool is often used in fire-rated assemblies in commercial and high-rise buildings.
Fiberglass vs Mineral Wool: Key Differences
| Feature | Fiberglass Insulation | Mineral Wool Insulation |
| Material Composition | Fine glass fibers | Melted rock (basalt) or industrial slag |
| R-Value (per inch) | R-2.9 to R-3.8 | R-4.0 to R-4.3 |
| Thermal Performance | Good, cost-effective | Excellent, better in limited space |
| Fire Resistance | Non-combustible but binder may degrade | Naturally fire-resistant, withstands >1000°C (1800°F) |
| Soundproofing | Moderate | Superior — denser structure blocks more sound |
| Moisture Resistance | Moisture-resistant, may hold water if wet | Water-repellent, dries out without losing performance |
| Installation Ease | Lightweight, flexible, easy to cut | Rigid, holds shape well, slightly harder to cut |
| Health & Safety | May irritate skin, eyes, lungs — PPE recommended | Safer handling, though dust mask is still advised |
| Environmental Impact | Contains 30%+ recycled glass; lower embodied energy | Made from natural & recycled materials; higher production energy use |
| Cost | Lower ($0.40–$1.00/sq.ft) | Higher ($1.00–$1.50/sq.ft) |
| Common Applications | Attics, walls, floors, HVAC duct wrap | Fire-rated assemblies, soundproof rooms, basements, commercial builds |
Thermal Performance
When comparing fiberglass vs mineral wool insulation in terms of thermal efficiency, both provide excellent performance, but mineral wool generally offers a slightly higher R-value per inch. Fiberglass batts typically range from R-2.9 to R-3.8 per inch, while mineral wool batts can reach R-4.0 to R-4.3.
This means that in areas with limited wall or ceiling thickness, mineral wool can deliver better energy efficiency. However, in large-scale projects with plenty of space, fiberglass remains a strong and cost-effective option.
Fire Resistance
One of the most notable differences is fire safety. Mineral wool insulation is naturally fire-resistant and does not combust, making it ideal for high-risk areas or buildings that require fire-rated assemblies.
Fiberglass, while also non-combustible, often contains binders that may degrade at high temperatures. It provides a decent level of fire protection but is generally considered less robust than mineral wool in extreme conditions.
Soundproofing
Mineral wool outperforms fiberglass when it comes to sound absorption. Due to its denser structure and composition, it effectively dampens airborne and impact noise, making it a top choice for music rooms, home theaters, or multi-family housing.
Fiberglass insulation still provides soundproofing benefits but is less effective in blocking low-frequency noises compared to mineral wool.
Installation & Handling
Fiberglass insulation is lightweight and easier to cut and install. However, the tiny glass fibers can irritate the skin and lungs, requiring installers to wear gloves, goggles, and masks.
Mineral wool, while denser and more rigid, is easier to fit snugly between framing members without compressing. It generates less airborne dust but may still require protective equipment during handling.
Both types can be DIY-friendly, though mineral wool’s firmness makes it easier to maintain its shape during installation.
Cost Comparison
Fiberglass insulation is typically cheaper, making it a go-to for budget-conscious builders and homeowners. On average, fiberglass costs between $0.40–$1.00 per square foot.
Mineral wool, while more expensive at $1.00–$1.50 per square foot, offers enhanced benefits like superior fire resistance and better acoustic performance. For projects requiring top-tier performance, the added cost may be justified.
Which One is More Eco-Friendly?
If environmental sustainability is a priority, both materials offer advantages. Fiberglass insulation often includes 30% or more recycled glass content and contributes to energy efficiency by reducing heating and cooling demands.
Mineral wool is also made from natural and recycled materials such as basalt rock and industrial slag. Its longer lifespan and performance benefits also reduce the need for replacements and excessive energy use.
However, mineral wool manufacturing consumes more energy, slightly impacting its carbon footprint. Overall, both can be classified as green building materials, especially when sourced from manufacturers that follow eco-friendly production standards.
Common Applications and Best Uses
Fiberglass insulation is commonly used in:
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Attics and ceilings
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Wall cavities
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Floor joists
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HVAC duct wraps
Mineral wool insulation is preferred for:
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Fire-rated walls and ceilings
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Soundproofing in partition walls
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High-rise buildings and commercial structures
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Moisture-prone basements
In short, if you need an affordable and versatile solution, fiberglass may suit your project. For higher performance in soundproofing, fire protection, or space-constrained areas, mineral wool is the better option.
Conclusion
When comparing fiberglass vs mineral wool insulation, the decision largely depends on your project’s needs. Fiberglass is affordable, easy to install, and suitable for most residential applications. On the other hand, mineral wool offers better fire resistance, soundproofing, and thermal efficiency, making it ideal for high-performance buildings and commercial spaces.
If you’re seeking premium insulation solutions with both performance and safety in mind, consider partnering with a trusted manufacturer.
FUNSA is a leading insulation brand that specializes in advanced fiberglass and mineral wool insulation products. With a strong commitment to quality, energy efficiency, and innovation, FUNSA delivers customized insulation systems tailored to diverse building needs.
š Visit FUNSA’s official website to explore insulation solutions or connect with an expert: https://www.funasinsulations.com/
Make the smart move for your building's future — choose insulation that performs beyond expectations with FUNSA.
FAQs
Which is better for soundproofing: fiberglass or mineral wool?
Mineral wool offers superior sound absorption due to its density and structure, making it better for soundproofing.
Is mineral wool more fire-resistant than fiberglass?
Yes, mineral wool is naturally fire-resistant and withstands higher temperatures without degradation.
Can fiberglass insulation cause health problems?
Fiberglass can irritate the skin and lungs if inhaled. Wearing protective gear during installation reduces the risks.
Is mineral wool safe for home use?
Yes. Mineral wool is non-toxic, non-combustible, and safe when installed properly with standard safety precautions.
What is the R-value difference between fiberglass and mineral wool?
Mineral wool generally has a higher R-value per inch (R-4.0 to R-4.3) than fiberglass (R-2.9 to R-3.8).
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