Mineral Wool Insulation
Superior Fire Safety, Sound Control & Moisture Resistance
The Premium Choice for Safety & Performance
Mineral wool insulation, also known as rock wool or stone wool, is manufactured from volcanic rock and recycled steel slag. This premium insulation offers unmatched fire resistance, excellent sound dampening, and superior moisture management—making it ideal for Arizona's demanding climate and safety-conscious homeowners.
🔥 Fire Resistant to 2,150°F
Mineral wool won't burn, melt, or produce toxic smoke. It can withstand temperatures exceeding 2,150°F, providing crucial extra minutes for evacuation in case of fire.
Understanding Mineral Wool
Created by spinning molten rock into fine fibers, mineral wool forms a dense mat that resists heat transfer, blocks sound, and repels water. Unlike other insulation types, it maintains its shape and performance even under extreme conditions.
Key Benefits for Arizona Homes
Extreme Fire Resistance
Non-combustible with melting point above 2,150°F - crucial for wildfire-prone areas
Superior Sound Control
Density and fiber structure provide exceptional noise reduction between rooms and floors
Water Repellent
Naturally hydrophobic - won't absorb moisture during monsoon season
Dimensional Stability
No settling, sagging, or degradation over time
Heat Performance
Maintains R-value at extreme temperatures up to 1,000°F
Mold & Pest Resistant
Inorganic composition prevents mold growth and pest infestation
Performance Specifications
| Property | Mineral Wool | Comparison |
|---|---|---|
| R-Value per inch | R-4.0 to R-4.3 | Higher than fiberglass (R-3.1) |
| Fire Resistance | 2,150°F melting point | Non-combustible (unlike foam) |
| Sound Transmission | STC 45-52 | Best-in-class acoustics |
| Moisture Absorption | <1% by volume | Hydrophobic properties |
| Density | 4.0-8.0 lbs/ft³ | 3-4x denser than fiberglass |
| Lifespan | 50+ years | No degradation over time |
Arizona Climate Advantages
🏜️ Extreme Heat Performance
While fiberglass loses R-value at high temperatures, mineral wool maintains its full insulation properties even when attic temperatures exceed 150°F. The dense fiber structure resists heat flow more effectively than lighter materials.
🌊 Monsoon Resilience
Mineral wool's water-repellent properties make it ideal for Arizona's monsoon season. If exposed to moisture, it dries quickly without losing R-value or developing mold—unlike fiberglass or cellulose.
🏚️ Retrofit Excellence
The rigid batts fit perfectly in standard wall cavities and can be friction-fit without fasteners. This makes mineral wool ideal for upgrading older Arizona homes without major renovation.
Product Types & Applications
ComfortBatt® (Residential)
- R-15 for 2x4 walls (3.5")
- R-23 for 2x6 walls (5.5")
- R-30 for attics (7.25")
- Semi-rigid, easy to cut and install
Best for: Interior/exterior walls, attics, floors
Safe'n'Sound® (Acoustic)
- 3" thick for interior walls
- No R-value rating (sound focus)
- STC improvement of 45-52
- Fire resistance in party walls
Best for: Home theaters, bedrooms, offices
ComfortBoard® (Exterior)
- Rigid board insulation
- R-3 to R-10 per layer
- Continuous insulation solution
- Vapor permeable
Best for: Exterior sheathing, continuous insulation
Installation Considerations
Professional Installation Process
- Measurement & Planning: Precise cavity measurements for optimal fit
- Safety Equipment: Protective gear required (less irritating than fiberglass)
- Cutting & Fitting: Clean cuts with serrated knife, friction-fit installation
- Gap Sealing: Ensure complete cavity fill without compression
- Vapor Barrier: Install appropriate barriers for climate zone
- Quality Check: Verify complete coverage and proper fit
💡 Pro Tip
Mineral wool is denser and heavier than fiberglass, requiring proper handling techniques. Professional installation ensures optimal performance and safety.
Cost Analysis
Investment Range
- Material cost: $1.00-$1.50 per sq ft
- Professional installation: $0.50-$1.00 per sq ft
- Total installed: $1.50-$2.50 per sq ft
- Average attic (1,500 sq ft): $2,250-$3,750
Value Proposition
- 20-30% higher initial cost than fiberglass
- Superior performance justifies premium
- Lower insurance rates in fire-prone areas
- Lifetime warranty - no replacement needed
- Energy savings: 25-40% reduction in bills
Sound Control Excellence
Mineral wool's density and fiber orientation make it the gold standard for acoustic insulation:
Perfect for: Home theaters, music rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and multi-family walls.
Safety & Environmental Impact
🛡️ Safety Features
- Non-combustible - won't contribute to fire spread
- No toxic smoke production
- Biosoluble fibers - safer than old mineral wool
- Low dust generation during installation
🌱 Environmental Benefits
- Made from abundant natural rock and recycled content
- Recyclable at end of life
- Manufacturing uses less energy than foam products
- Contributes to LEED and green building certifications
Common Applications in Arizona
Fire-Prone Areas
Essential for homes near desert interfaces where wildfire risk is elevated
Sound Isolation
Popular in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley luxury homes for acoustic privacy
Exterior Retrofits
Continuous insulation for stucco homes requiring thermal upgrades
Mixed-Use Buildings
Fire-rated assemblies between residential and commercial spaces
⚠️ Important Considerations
- Higher density requires proper structural support in attics
- Professional cutting tools recommended for clean edges
- Slightly higher material cost offset by superior performance
- May require special ordering in some Arizona locations
Mineral Wool vs. Other Insulation Types
| Feature | Mineral Wool | Fiberglass | Spray Foam | Cellulose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fire Resistance | 2,150°F | Good | Poor | Treated |
| Sound Control | Excellent | Good | Good | Very Good |
| Moisture Resistance | Hydrophobic | Poor | Excellent | Fair |
| R-Value/inch | R-4.0-4.3 | R-3.1 | R-6.5 | R-3.6 |
| Settling | None | None | None | 15-20% |
| Cost | Higher | Lower | Highest | Moderate |
Ready for Premium Protection?
Upgrade to mineral wool for unmatched safety, comfort, and performance