Aussies are looking for insulated homes and buildings these days. It not only holds on to heat in winter, but it also brings down the heating and cooling expenses throughout the year. However, centuries back, fibreglass used to be prevalent, but homeowners observed health issues emerging due to this material.
On that note, manufacturers have come up with green home insulation. Whether you need cheap insulation in Melbourne or expensive, the several alternatives can make your home safe and healthy and, at the same time, cut pollution.
Here are five types of eco-friendly insulation alternatives for buildings.
- Sheep’s Wool
Up until sheep’s wool was used for insulating our bodies in winters. But why not our home’s walls and ceilings? The good news is - the most natural material, sheep’s wool, is keeping home warm in the present time. The fire-resistant fibres form air pockets that entrap air inside and insulate our home. That way, they keep us cool in summer and warm in winter. That means you don’t have to frequently modify your heating and cooling systems, which will conserve energy and money.
- Icynene
Icynene, one of the strongest green home insulation alternatives, is a spray foam consisting of castor oil. It expands 100 times in volume when sprayed over the surface. Its advantages include sealing leaks and drafts and eliminating noise. However, it requires a ventilation system as its sealing properties are too strong if you live in cold regions. Along with the system, you need an air exchanger. The only downside is - it’s expensive in the beginning. However, it will pay you off in some years because it saves 30-50% on energy bills. All you have to do is reach out to insulation suppliers in Melbourne and order this material.
- Polyester
Though it may not look like an environmentally friendly option, it is known as a green alternative. It’s because polyester aids you in saving energy. Furthermore, you can recycle this material as they’re made up of synthetic materials, including recycled plastic bottles. It has two forms – rigid foam boards and spray foam. Both are non-flammable and can burn when exposed to extremely high temperatures. However, it’s good for asthma patients as it doesn’t contain dust or breathable fibres.
- Aerogel
Invented in 1931 by Samuel Stephens Kistler, this man-made material is 90% air. That means it makes the heat tough to pass through it. This legend had made the Aerogel by removing the liquid from silica under high temperature and pressure. That made the Aerogel material famous for insulation in Melbourne and nearby suburbs. Moreover, it’s ultra-light in weight and arrives in sheets or sticks for DIYing. However, it’s on the expensive side.
- Cellulose
Are you looking to diminish toxins from your house? Then cellulose is your best home insulation material! It’s made from newsprint and other paper; hence, it’s safe to install. That implies this material will not make its way to landfills in order to release harmful greenhouse gases. Also, cellulose is a fire-resistant material, which is at the same time affordable and effective.
Ponder On Its Installation
So, here it was – the best insulation alternatives for you to put your trust on. So, whether expensive or cheap, insulation that saves the environment is good for your home. You should weigh their pros and cons to make an informed decision. But keep in mind that these materials need proper installation so that they perform as they’re supposed to. Otherwise, warmness can escape during winters and vice-versa. Exterior corners, outdoor water taps, electric outlets are some common areas from where air elopes. Fortunately, you can prevent them. Solution? Proper insulation installation!
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