| A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z | AA | AB | AC | AD | AE | AF | AG | AH | AI | AJ | AK | AL | AM | AN | AO | AP | AQ | AR | AS | AT | AU | AV | AW | AX | AY | AZ | BA | BB | BC | BD | BE | BF | BG | BH | BI | BJ | BK | BL | BM | BN | BO | BP | BQ | ||
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2 | MOST HEALTY PRACTICAL AND SUSTAINABLE INSULATION OPTIONS - ONE COMMUNITY'S COMPARISON TABLE | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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5 | ROCK WOOL Comfort Batt | Black Mountain USA Sheep Wool | Havelock Wool Sheep Wool | ROCK WOOL Comfort Board 80 | DIY AirCrete | Hempitecture HempWool Fiber Batt | Owens Corning ThermaFiber UltraBatt (unfaced) | ThermaCork | Hempitecture HempCrete | Airkrete GREENsulation | Straw Bale Construction | Bonded Logic UltraTouch Denim Insulation | Kenafcrete | Greenfiber Blended Blow-in Insulation | Styrofoam Boards | Aspen Aerogels Spaceloft | Fiberglass | Demilec HEATLOK SOYA 200 PLUS | DIY Recycled Styrofoam | Icynene Classic Plus | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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7 | Rank | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th | 7th | 8th | 9th | 10th | 11th | 12th | 13th | 14th | 15th | 16th | 17th | 18th | 19th | 20th | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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9 | Technicalities | Composition | -Natural volcanic rock and slag -No blowing agents | -98% sheep wool -1% polyester mesh -1% Thorlan IW (a pest resistance treatment in the EINECS-Register as approved by various EU regulations. The chemical is widely used in the wool insulation industry and is widely accepted as the industry standard. ) | -100% wool (no synthetic mix or chemical binders) -Treated with Boric Acid as flame retardant and insect repellant | -The stone wool-based insulation is made from natural stone with a minimum of 40% recycled content | -Cement, water, and foam -Lightweight cement-based material with stable air cells distributed throughout it | -Made of 92% industrial hemp fiber -Unclear what the other 8% is | -96+% charge (primarily recyled blast furnace slag, supplemented with fieldspar and trap rock) -Less than 4% binder (silane, surfactant, and other) | -100% Natural Cork plus water -No additives or adhesives | -Made of limestone and woody core fiber of hemp stalks | -Air -Water -Magnesium Oxide (MGO) cement. | -Straw, which has been cut and bound in a bailing machine | -80% post-consumer Recycled Fiber Products (i.e. denim, cotton) -Boric acid (fire retardant, impedes growth of fungi/mold) -Ammonium Sulfate -Binder fiber | -Kenaf wood core chips -Hydrated lime -Water | -85% recycled newsprint (cellulose fiber) -<10% boric acid (for flame retardant) -<10% ammonium sulfate | -Styrofoam (the monomer styrene is converted into polystyrene, then a hydrofluorocarbon agent is added, then the material is extruded and expanded under pressure to form a foam board) | -40-50% Synthetic Amorphous Silica -10-20% Methylsilylated Silica -10-20% Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET or polyester) -10-20% Fibrous Glass (textile grade) -0-5% Magnesium Oxide -0-5% Synthetic Graphite | -Usually made with a blend of sand, limestone, soda ash, and recycled glass cullet -Usually comes in blankets or sheets | -This product is two "sides" that are combined on a 1:1 ratio via a high temperature hose at the time of installation -Side A is totally MDI/pMDI. -Side B: 50% polyester polyol, 25% polyether polyol, <10% each pentafluoropropane (This is an HFC which is bad for the environment because it depletes the ozone), dichloroethylene, flame retardant, triethyl phosphate, tertiary amine catalyst, surfactant -The SDS for the finished and dried foam states the composition as 90% urethane plastics, 10% pentafluoropropane -In these compositions it is not clear where that 14% of renewable/recycled content is found. The Technical Data Sheet for the whole product under the "Renewable and Recycled Content" subheading states it is 40% "polyols containing recycled and renewable content" and 13.5% "renewable content" (very vague) | -Recycled Styrofoam consists of reprocessing used Styrofoam to produce new Styrofoam -Styrofoam is a polymer made from monomer styrene, a liquid hydrocarbon that is commercially manufactured from petroleum | -Diphenylmethane-4,4'-diisocyanate, Benzene -1-isocyanato-2-[(4-isocyanatophenyl)methyl]-. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
10 | Company Link | ROCKWOOL | Black Mountain - Thermal insulation NATUWOOL | Havelock Wool | ROCKWOOL | DIY AirCrete | Hempitecture | ThermaFiber | ThermaCork | Hempitecture | Aircrete GREENsulation | No specific company site But here's a great resource to start with: Strawbale.com | Bonded Logic: UltraTouch Denim | KenafPartnersUSA | Greenfiber: Blended Blow-in Insulation | DOW: Building Insulation | Aspen Aerogel: Spaceloft | No specific company, but here are a few popular ones in the US Knauf Insulation Owens Cornering | Huntsman Build Solutions: Heatlok SOYA HFO | Instructables: Recycled Styrofoam Block Insulation | https://www.icynene.com/en-us | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
11 | Spec Sheet | Technical Data Sheet | Product Brochure | Full Spec Sheet | Technical Data Sheet | None available | Technical Data Sheet | Product Data Sheet | Product Brochure Spec Sheet | Hemp Hurd Technical Sheet Standard Wall Section | Material Safety / Data Sheet | None available | Spec Sheet | Performance Parameters | Greenfiber: Blended Blow-in Insulation Scroll down to Technical Document section, and click INS541LD Fact Sheet | Data Sheet | Technical Guidance Document | Examples: Owens Cornering PINK Fiberglass Insulation Data Sheet Knauf Insulation EcoBatt Data Sheet | Technical Data Sheet | None available | Technical Product Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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13 | Health and Safety | Short-term Toxicity | -Won't release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heats. -Chemically inert -Non corrosive -Coarse fibers and dust from mineral wool can cause minor irritation of the eyes and skin, but it is minor and reversible, and it is not even classified as an irrirant by OSHA | 1 | -Can absorb and lock up toxic gases (sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and formaldehyde) whereas man-made insulations and exhausts can emit these gases -No skin or respiratory problems typically associated with mineral wool products (VOC / Carcinogen warnings) -According to independent tests, once treated with the Thorlan, the wool material is safe to handle by consumers" - https://www.thegreenage.co.uk/is-sheepwool-insulation-resistant-to-moths/ | 2 | -Wool filters the air and improves indoor air quality, by removing dust particles which may contain harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide. Then the amino acids in wool irreversibly bond with these chemicals -No off-gassing – natural characteristics make our insulation devoid of harmful chemicals | 2 | -Coarse fibers and dust from mineral wool can cause minor irritation of the eyes and skin, but it is minor and reversible, and it is not even classified as an irrirant by OSHA -Won't release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heats. -Chemically inert -Non corrosive | 1 | -Non-toxic | 1 | -Nontoxic -No VOCs -Absorbs harmful chemicals | 2 | -No acute hazards -First formaldehyde-free mineral wool to the market | 1 | -VOC Free -Red List Free -No known acute health concerns | 1 | -Nontoxic -No VOCs -Absorbs harmful chemicals | 2 | -Non-toxic -The technicians don't even need to wear hazmat gear during installation -MGO is on the Hazardous Items List and is regulated by OSHA, but it seems it is really only dangerous when in direct contact with skin or breathing in free MGO particles; and even then the worst that could happen is "metal fever," which is highly unlikely to get from the levels of MGO in insulation. -MGO Safety Data Sheet describes it as essentially non-toxic for skin and ingestion. Air Krete site claims it's non-toxic -This product avoids the dangers of spray polyurethane foams. -Product removes CO2 from the air, improving indoor air quality | 0 | -Totally nontoxic | 1 | -Contains no chemical irritants and requires no warning labels -No harmful airborne particulates -Meets the extremely stringent Environmental Specification 1350 Indoor Air Pollutant testing used for California Public Schools -Post consumer denim could contain residues of chemically-based laundry products, which likely is not widely toxic but might be a potential problem for those who are chemically sensitive, who this products is mostly targeted at | 0 | -Non-toxic -Only made from natural, organic materials | 1 | -Eye and skin irritation -Inhalation: irritation or difficulty breathing -Ingestion: diarrhea, nausea, vomiting | -2 | -Releases host toxic chemicals when exposed to excessive heat -Contains 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, vapors with this chemical can cause dizziness or asphyxiation | -2 | -Nonhazardous -Minor exposure concerns: Inhalation of dust can cause temporary irritation of mucous membranes and upper respiratory tract, eye contact can cause temporary redness | 0 | -Due to its composition, such a product releases dangerous toxins and can create a rash or itch referred to as the " fibreglass itch" -Inhalation of the fibers can cause sore throat -Can cause and aggravate asthma | -2 | -Low VOC emission -OSHA classifies this material as hazardous in several categories -Skin irritation -Inhalation: headaches, dizziness, drowsiness -Ingestion: irritation to throat, esophagus, stomach (can cause diarrhea, nausea, vomiting) | -2 | -And all the same toxicity issues of new Styrofoam: -Releases host toxic chemicals when exposed to excessive heat -Contains 1,1,1,2-Tetrafluoroethane, vapots with this chemical can cause dizziness or asphyxiation | -2 | -Low VOC product -Contains MDI which we've identified as toxic. -Once the foam sets in it becomes inert but unclear how long it takes to become inert-- definitely at least 24 hours since no one is allowed around it without hazmat protection for 24 hours after installation. -From their TDS: " Asthma, other lung problems, and irritation of the nose and throat can result from inhalation of isocyanates. Direct contact with the skin and eyes can result in irritation". But they also seem to say that it's really only dangerous in the 24 hours after installation. | -2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
14 | Long-term Toxicity | -Won't release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heats. -Chemically inert -Non corrosive -Contains man-made vitreous wool fibers, which are IARC classified as Group 3, which means there is no evidence that it is carcinogenic to humans | 1 | -Can absorb and lock up toxic gases (sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and formaldehyde) whereas man-made insulations and exhausts can emit these gases -Not carcinogenic | 2 | -"Wool filters the air and improves indoor air quality. The amino acids in wool irreversibly bond with formaldehyde, NOₓ and SO2 on a molecular level." -Boric Acid can pose potential Development, Endocrine, and Reproductive hazards, but the company refers to the EPA's assessment of Boric acid that "no harm to any population subgroup will result from aggregate exposure" and "No inhalation exposure scenarios resulted in exceedances of the LOC (level of concern)" | 1 | -Won't release toxic gases or smoke when exposed to high heats -Chemically inert -Non corrosive -Contains man-made vitreous wool fibers, which are IARC classified as Group 3, which means there is no evidence that it is carcinogenic to humans (Source) | 1 | -No known carcinogens or long-term health consequences | 1 | -Nontoxic -No VOCs -Absorbs harmful chemicals | 2 | -On the Safe Use Instruction Sheet: This product does not contain any carcinogens or potential carcinogens as listed by OSHA, IARC or NTP But on the Health Product Declaration: -0.01 to 0.1% Ammonium Sulfate, a potential endocrine disrupter --0 to 0.1% Petrolatum, a potential carcinogen and reproductive toxin -0 to 0.3% Antimony Trioxide, a potential carcinogen, though it "is inextricably bound within the polymer matrix of the facer and not considered a hazardous chemical under the OSHA standard" | -1 | -VOC Free -Red List Free -No known long term health concerns | 1 | -Nontoxic -No VOCs -Absorbs harmful chemicals | 2 | -No known carcinogens or long-term health consequences | 1 | -Totally nontoxic | 1 | -No known carcinogens or long-term health consequences | 1 | -Non-toxic -Only made from natural, organic materials | 1 | -Free from the formaldehyde and asbestos found in some insulations -SDS mentions: "Acute Inhalation Toxicity: LC50, rat, =5,800 mg/m3 /4 hours" Acute Oral Toxicity: Low acute oral toxicity. The oral LD50 value in male rats is 3,450 mg/kg bw, and in female rats is 4080 mg/kg bw -"Reproduction: NOAEL in rats for developmental effects on the foetus including foetal weight loss and minor skeletal variations is 55 mg boric acid/kg bw or 9.6 mg B/kg. -Classification: Reproductive Toxicity Category 2 (Hazard statement: H361: Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child)" | -2 | -Contains teratogenic (causes defects in fetuses) and reproductive toxins -When this product is disposed of, it doesn't decompose, instead its toxic chemicals accumulate in the environment, animals, and humans where it has harmful effects | -2 | -Nonhazardous -No long term health consequences | 1 | -Not known to cause major long term health concerns | 2 | -Isocynate Component A is one of the materials used, which has the following long term health concerns: -Category 2 for carcinogenicity (suspected of causing cancer) -Category 2 for organ toxicity (may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure) -Source | -2 | -The machinery option when recycling polystyrene create gases to be released such as CO2, CO and soot which can be harmful to the workers as well as the environment -However, recycling Styrofoam reduces the production of new Styrofoam which reduces the harmful gases and toxins that are released during that production -Contains teratogenic (causes defects in fetuses) and reproductive toxins -When this product is disposed of, it doesn't decompose, instead its toxic chemicals accumulate in the environment, animals, and humans where it has harmful effects | -2 | -Benzene is also a carcinogen, and is linked to asthma, lung damage, etc. -Hazardous decomposition products: Carbon monoxide. Hydrogen cyanide. Nitrogen oxides (NOx). | -2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
15 | Mold , Pests or Allergens | -Resistant to mold, rot, and bacteria -Natural keratin prevents against the spread of mold and mildew | 2 | -Sheeps wool is naturally mold and mildew resistant -Thorlan IW only protects against moths, insects, etc.-- not against rodents, though few insulation products are truly rodent-proof | 2 | -Natural keratin in the wool prevents against the spread of mold and mildew. -Passes test for Fungal resistance -Hypoallergenic | 2 | -Resistant to mold, rot, and bacteria -Natural keratin prevents against the spread of mold and mildew | 2 | -Mold, post, and termite proof | 2 | -No risk of mold -Hypoallergenic | 2 | -Resists mold, fungi, and is vermin proof due to its being an inorganic material | 2 | -Hypoallergenic -Mold and rot resistant | 2 | -Rot-proof -Deters insects and rodents -Resists mold | 2 | Non- allergenic: keeps pollen and airborne allergens outside -Pest and mold repellant -Acts as a dessicant, maintaining dryness, which deters molds and pests -De-oiling effect makes it insect and rodent deterrent | 2 | -If the straw gets wet, it becomes susceptible to mold growth (typically a concern if it surpasses 20% moisture content) -Packed so tightly that there aren't concerns about pest infestation | 0 | Impedes growth of fungi/mold/bacteria (due to the boron treatment of fibers) -But if it becomes wet, it doesn't dry out well, so there might be a heightened risk of mold | 1 | -Mold proof -Pest proof | 2 | -Some concerns of mold growth because of the cellulose -Proper structural assembly helps prevent mold growth -Their website makes no claims of being mold resistant, but they have a page saying how to minimize the risk: Moisture Control and Mold Growth | 0 | -Not a expected to be a nutrient source for bacteria and fungi, so rarely grows mold or mildew -No need for special additives | 1 | -Mold and fungal resistance | 2 | -Naturally mold resistant, as it is not a food source for bacteria and fungi -However, many products have paper backing, so mold could grow there | 0 | -Inhibits mold, mildew and bacterial growth | 2 | -Not a expected to be a nutrient source for bacteria and fungi, so rarely grows mold or mildew -No need for special additives | 1 | -Combats mold/allergens with its superior air seal, thus "problems related to mold spores or other toxins released by mold are also reduced" -Doesn't offer much food value to fungi or bacteria | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
16 | Fire Resistance | -Fire resistant -Flame Spread Index: 0 (Class A) -Smoke Developed Index: 0 -Non-combustible -Will not even ignite or develop toxic smoke when directly exposed to flames -Melting point of approximately 1177°C | 2 | -Wool is naturally fire resistant and due to its high nitrogen content if it did catch fire it would only smolder and singe away-- wouldn't actually catch and spread fire. -No special treatment necessary -Wool is a natural fire retardant whereas other insulations are typically treated with something like boric acid to make it fire retardant (though boric acid is non-toxic and not a concern in itself) -Says it passed the Flame Spread and Smoke Development tests, but they don't share the actual data, it says you can contact them for details -Similar wool insulation product by Havelock Wool is rated as a Class A Fire Retardant, we believe Black Mountain's product is Class A as well | 1 | -Conforms to Class A of the ASTM E84 test -Also Class A for Smoke Developed | 1 | -Fire resistant -Flame Spread Index: 0 (Class A) --Smoke Developed Index: 0 -Non-combustible -Will not even ignite or develop toxic smoke when directly exposed to flames -Melting point of approximately 1177°C | 2 | -Fire Resistant -No flame spread and smoke developed indices since its a DIY, but we expect these score to be the same as purchased AirKrete, which are both 0 -Expected to be rated Class A | 2 | -Fire resistant (rated Class A) -Can't find data for Flame Spread and Smoke Developed Index -Ignition Time: 6.67 seconds -Total Smoke Release by Surface Unit: 217 ft2/lb | 1 | -Flame spread index: 0 (Class A) -Smoke developed index: 0 | 2 | Class B Fire Rating | 0 | -100% Fire Proof -Flame Spread Index: 0 (Class A) -Smoke Developed Index: 0 | 2 | -Fully Fireproof -Smoke Developed Index: 0 -Flame Spread Index: 0 (Class A) -Anecdotes of this product stopping house fires in their tracks | 2 | -Fire resistant, when installed properly -Flame Spread Index: 10 (Class A) Smoke Developed Index: 350 -The bales are dense enough that there isn't enough oxygen for the fire to propagate | 1 | Fire resistant (not naturally, it is treated) -Flame Spread Index: 5 (Class A) -Smoke Developed Index: 35 -Each individual fiber is treated with a boron-based fire retardant | 1 | -Claims to be Fire proof -No record of Flame Spread or Smoke Development Indices -But it has passed SIRIM fire testing | 1 | -Unlike fireproof Airkrete, this insulation is treated with boric acid to make it fire retardant -The Greenfiber site boasts that this "gives you more time to escape from a fire". From the SDS: "Combustible: Material may decompose on contact with extreme temperatures and open flames" -Flame Spread Index: less than 25 (Class A) -Smoke Developed Index: less than 50 | 1 | -Generally Highly flammable -Releases toxic chemicals when burns -Flame Spread Index: 15-75 (Class A or B, we're scoring it Class B due to comments about it generally be flammable and releasing toxic fumes) -Smoke Developed Index: 165-450 | 0 | Class A Fire Rating -Flame Spread index: <5 -Smoke Developed Index: 20 | 1 | -Average Index Scores: -Flame Spread Index: 25 (Class A) -Smoke Spread Index: 50 | 1 | Fire resistant -Flame Spread Index: 20 (Class A) -Smoke Developed Index: 400 | 1 | -Styrofoam blocks are extremely flammable which can release dangerous toxins when burnt | -2 | -Icynene spray foam is a Class 1 material -Flame Spread Index: 20 (Class A) Smoke Developed Index: 340 | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
17 | Health and Safety Data Sheets | Safe Use Instruction Sheet -Thorough datasheet touching on composition, hazards, first aid measures, handling, personal protection, exposure control, reactivity, toxological info, ecological info, disposal info, transport info, etc... | 2 | Sheep Wool Insulation Brochure -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc... | 2 | Health Product Declaration -Info on hazards, certifications, | 2 | Safe Use Instruction Sheet -Thorough datasheet touching on composition, hazards, first aid measures, handling, personal protection, exposure control, reactivity, toxological info, ecological info, disposal info, transport info, etc... | 2 | -No specific Health Data sheet because it's DIY -But this info should be able to be easily obtained for the materials you use (cement and foaming agent) | 2 | HempWool Information -Mostly info about pricing, dimensions, features, and other specs, but provides some info about improved air quality and fire and smoke testing | 0 | Safe Use Instruction Sheet -Thorough datasheet touching on composition, hazards, first aid measures, handling, personal protection, exposure control, reactivity, toxological info, ecological info, disposal info, transport info, etc... Health Product Declaration | 2 | Safety Data Sheet -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc... | 2 | -No specific data sheet (you can't buy the product directly, but you can buy the ingredients and mix it yourself) | 0 | Material Safety / Data Sheet -information on ingredients, physical characteristics, fire and explosion hazards, health hazards, reactivity, protection procedures, disposal | 2 | -No specific Health and Safety Data sheet -But any information is common knowledge or publicly available -Straw Bale Home Inspection -Link that contains information regarding health, moisture intrusion, plastering, sagging and weight cracks, curing, structure, advantages, and disadvantages | 2 | Material Safety Data Sheet -Info on composition, fire and explosion hazards, reactivity, health hazards, handling, storage, and disposal | 2 | Performance Parameters -Mostly just info on weight and dimensions, but includes load testing and fire testing | 0 | Safety Data Sheet (Click Loose Fill Blended) -Info on hazard indentification, ingredients, first aid measures, fire fighting measures, handling, storage, exposure control, personal protection, reactivity, toxicological info, ecological info, disposal, transport, etc | 2 | Safety Data Sheet -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc.. | 2 | Safety Data Sheet -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc... | 2 | -Depends on the company, but they all are very likely to provide thorough Safety Data Sheets -Here is an example of one for Johns Manville Fiberglass Insulation: Safety Data Sheet -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc.. | 2 | Safety Data - A-Side Safety Data - B-Side Resin Safety Data - Rigid Foam -Information about chemical hazards, first aid measures, firefighting measures, handling, storage, storage, exposure control, reactivity, toxicological info, ecological info, disposal, tranport, etc... | 2 | -No specific Health Data sheet because it's DIY -You should be able to look up Safety Data Sheets for the type of Styrofoam you are using, the information is expected to be quite similar to the information provided in the Safety Data Sheet for purchased Styrofoam Insulation Great Stuff Big Gap Filler Safety Data Sheet | 2 | Safety Data Sheet: A-Side Safety Data Sheet: B-Side Safety Data Sheet: Foam -Info on Materials, First Aid Measures, Fire Fighting Measures, Handling, Storage, Transport, Personal Protection, Exposure Control, Reactivity, Toxicological info, Ecological info, disposal info, etc.. | 2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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19 | Sustainability | Materials | -Made from natural and recycled materials, -Contain up to 40% recycled content in the form of slag from steel production | 2 | -Sheep wool is sustainable and renewable | 2 | -100% wool with no synthetic mix or chemical binders. -Sheep wool is sustainable and renewable -Havelock purchases sheep wool as a byproduct of the meat production industry. By using this wool, Havelock reduces its impacts by eliminating the impacts associated with sheep husbandry | 2 | -Made from natural and recycled materials, -Contain up to 40% recycled content in the form of slag from steel production | 2 | -Sustainable and renewable resources | 2 | -Materials come from sustainably grown and harvested biomass -Hemp is a renewable resource | 2 | -Minimum of 70% recycled content | 1 | -Cork is renewable -Process of stripping the bark doesn't harm the tree, it regrows the bark in about 9 years | 2 | -Materials come from sustainably grown and harvested biomass -Hemp is a renewable resource | 2 | -Made of air, water, and Magnesium Oxide (MGO) cement. -MGO is derived from seawater -Sustainable and renewable resources | 2 | -Straw is naturally occurring and a byproduct of other agricultural harvesting that is usually just composted or burned | 2 | -Made from recycled jeans -Cotton is a rapidly renewable resource -80% post-consumer Recycled Fiber Products (i.e. denim, cotton) | 1 | -Renewable materials: Made from Kenaf plant | 2 | -85% recycled newsprint -"The Cellulose Insulation Manufacturers Association (CIMA) claims that insulating a 1500 ft2 house with cellulose will recycle as much newspaper as an individual will consume in 40 years. If all new homes were insulated with cellulose this would remove 3.2 million tons of newsprint from the nation’s waste stream each year" -"we use just one-fifth the energy to manufacture Greenfiber as that used to make competing insulation products" | 1 | -Claims of an average of 20% pre-consumer recycled material -Non renewable | -1 | -Synthetic, non renewable resources -0% renewable/recycled materials | -2 | -Ranges from 0-30% recycled materials (such as recycled glass) | -1 | -22% renewable and recycled content, which consists of: -18% (soy, recycled plastic bottles) (300 million recycled plastic bottles used since 2004!), soybean oil replaces the petroleum content that some insulations have -4% renewable content | -1 | -Nearly 100% Recycled materials (styrofoam) -Recycling Styrofoam saves millions of trees, immense amount of water and space in landfills and all the other fossils fuels and products that go into the production of paper -Polystyrene is 100% recyclable | 2 | -No renewable/recycled materials | -2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
20 | Manufacturing & Transportation | Production Energy: Low -Energy that goes into wool production is relatively low Transportation Energy: Low -Headquartered in Denmark, but has plants in the United States -Product facilities placed strategically to support local resources, raw materials are located in close vicinity of facilities (though certain products may have to be sourced from more than 100 miles away) -Can find products at local hardware stores (Lowes and Home Depot) | 2 | Production Energy: Low -Requires very low energy to manufacture (eco-buildingproducts.com claims 85% less energy compared to man-made insulation products) Transportation Energy: Average -Black Mountain USA is based in the US -Unclear where they source their materials from | 1 | Production Energy: Low - Havelock uses minimal energy during the manufacturing stage and it is looking for ways to get electricity from renewable resources Transportation Energy: High -Distributed and sold throughout the United States and Canada -Raw materials harvested in New Zealand, and then mechanically processed in the US, so significant transportation cost here | 0 | Production Energy: Low -Energy that goes into wool production is relatively low Transportation Energy: Low -Headquartered in Denmark, but has plants in the United States -Product facilities placed strategically to support local resources, raw materials are located in close vicinity of facilities (though certain products may have to be sourced from more than 100 miles away) -Can find products at local hardware stores (Lowes and Home Depot) | 2 | Production Energy: Low -DIY manufacturing process, very environmentally friendly Transportation Energy: Low -Since you make it yourself, reduction in energy used to ship/transport the product | 2 | Product Energy: Low -Hemp is not energy intensive to grow Transportation Energy: Average -Headquartered in Iowa, facilities all across the US | 1 | Production Energy: Average Transportation Energy: Average -Manufactured in Indiana -Facilities all across US | 0 | Production Energy: Low -93% of energy consumption is biomass (waste of its own industrial process, waste byproduct of cork dust is used as fuel for production) Transportation Energy: High -55% of cork is harvest in Portugal, so high transportation cost to get it to the US | 0 | Production Energy: Low -Hemp is not energy intensive to grow Transportation Energy: Average -Headquartered in Iowa, facilities all across the US | 1 | Production Energy: Low -Negative carbon footprint Transportation Energy: Average -Manufactured in the US | 1 | Production Energy: Low -The production of a straw bale itself requires very little energy -Can be used it its raw state so requires little processing energy Transpportation Energy: Average or High -You will have to factor in the impacts of transportion, since they are so large the environmental costs of long distance transportation are greater | 1 | Production Energy: Low -Takes a minimal amount of energy to manufacture compared to other insulations -Note: the processing of denim is energy intensive as a whole, but since this product is made from 80% recycled fiber (both cotton and demin) overall this product has a relatively low manufacturing energy Transportation Energy: Average -Can find products at local hardware stores (Lowes and Home Depot) -Headquartered in the US | 1 | Production Energy: Low -Low energy and water needs to grow kenaf Transportation Energy: High (for building in the US) -Due to the use of lightweight, modular panels, the ability to transport parts and construct homes has become easier. Thus, reducing the transportation costs and the relative environmental impacts. -However, the company that makes this product is based in Malaysia, so getting the materials shipped to the United States would have a significant carbon impact | 0 | Production Energy: Low -products use 13 times less energy to manufacture than fiberglass insulation Transportation Energy: Low -Use short-haul transportation -Headquartered in the US, with facilities throughout the US and Canada | 2 | Production Energy: High -Energy intensive Transportation Energy: Average -Can be found at local hardware stores | -1 | Production Energy: High (-1 point) -Relatively energy-intensive production and manufacturing process, relies heavily on fossil fuels Transportation Energy: Average (-1 point) -Based in Europe, so high transportation energy used to ship it to US locations (If you're building in Europe this would likely be average) | -2 | Production Energy: High -Signficant use of fossil fuels, more energy intensive than other types of insulation Transportation Energy: Average -Can be found at local hardware stores | -1 | Production Energy: Average -No specific info Transportation Energy: Average -Headquarters in Texas, with facilities throughout US and Canada | 0 | Production Energy: Average (High for the styrofoam itself, but we've dropped it down to average considering this product is being recycled) Transportation Energy: Low -By using recycled products that you already own you minimize energy being spent on transportation | 1 | Production Energy: Average -Unknown Transportation Energy: Average -Headquarters in Ontario, Canada, facilities throughout US and Canada | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
21 | Direct Atmospheric Impact | -No blowing agents used in manufacturing, which results in less harmful emissions -Chemically inert; non-corrosive -CFC and HCFC free product and process (chemicals that contribute to ozone depletion) | 1 | -Wool is a Carbon sink: it locks up and stores CO2 | 2 | -Wool is a Carbon sink: it locks up and stores CO2 | 2 | -No blowing agents used in manufacturing, which results in less harmful emissions -Chemically inert; non-corrosive. -CFC and HCFC free product and process (chemicals that contribute to ozone depletion | 1 | -No known adverse consequences | 1 | -As the hemp grows it absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere and stores it, so the CO2 is sequestered for the lifetime of the product | 2 | -No known adverse consequences | 1 | -Carbon negative -Cork trees act as Carbon sinks | 2 | -As the hemp grows it absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere and stores it, so the CO2 is sequestered for the lifetime of the product -1 ft3 of hempcrete building material offsets approximately 7.27 lb of CO2 | 2 | -Scrubs CO2 out of air (thanks to MgO) | 2 | -Straw absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere when it grows, and the ables act as a carbon sink for the duration of its lifespan | 2 | -Cotton has a very small Greenhouse Gas footprint, but the processing and dying of the denim results in signficant emissions (one pair of jeans results in 44 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions - equivalent to driving a car about 48 miles, Source) | -1 | -Plant absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere at a significantly high rate -Kenafcrete also makes use of upcycled materials which replaces the need for sand or granite, and by extension, eliminates environmental impact of sand and granite mining. "Composed of more than 97 per cent upcycled biomass and binders, this composite material can help absorb and lock down greenhouse gas emissions in a permanent form -A simple 100-square-metre house can lock down the equivalent of an entire year of CO2 emissions by a standard passenger car." | 2 | -No known adverse consequences | 1 | -Product often uses HCFCs, which deplete the ozone layer, but some products are HCFC free and have a zero ozone depletion score | 0 | -Global Warming Potential about 4.3 (highest of any other products as of May 2021) | -2 | -No known adverse consequences | 1 | -Uses a blowing agent with a Global Warming Potential of 1 (99.9% lowers than traditional blowing agents) | -1 | -Product often uses HCFCs, which deplete the ozone layer, but some products are HCFC free and have a zero ozone depletion score | 0 | -100% water-blown and therefore has zero ozone-depletion potential. -Icynene Classic Plus™ has the lowest Global Warming Potential (GWP of 1) value for foam insulation products. | -1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
22 | Direct Ecological Impacts | -No known harm to animals and no known adverse environmental effects -Packaging is recylable (#4 plastic) | 1 | -No known harm to animals or adverse environmental effects -Man-made insulation currently can only be disposed of into landfills whereas sheep’s wool insulation is 100% biodegradable and can be composted at the end of its life | 2 | -No known harm to animals or adverse environmental effects - Havelock practices healthy waste management through composting; waste from the manufacturing process (wool dust) is composted and the final product at end of life can also be composted. -100% biodegradable and can be composted at the end of its life | 2 | -No known harm to animals and no known adverse environmental effects | 1 | Likely similar to Airkrete GREENsulation: nonhazardous as waste and disposal in a regular landfill | 1 | -Hemp as a plant is naturally pest resistant so no pesticides are needed to grow it -Hemp is biodegradable, so it can be disposed of sustainably at the end of its life | 2 | -No known adverse environmental effects | 1 | -The waste from the industrial process is 100% reusable (expanded cork granules + powder) -Cork forests improve soil’s organic matter and help regulate the hydrological cycle | 2 | -No adverse ecological impacts -Hemp as a plant is naturally pest resistant so no pesticides are needed to grow it -Hemp is biodegradable, so it can be disposed of sustainably at the end of its life | 2 | -"Considered non-hazardous as waste charged by an analytical parameters using EPA methods" -Disposal in a regular landfill | 1 | -No adverse environmental impacts -100% biodegradable (though can still last 100+ years if properly maintained), so whenever it comes time to replace it you can sustainably compost the material | 2 | -Reduces landfill waste -Biodegradable when it is time to replace it -Possible concerns of environmental impacts of various chemicals such as dyes in the recycled materials | 0 | -Plant is highly adaptable to different climates and soil conditions, requires minimal pesticides or weed management -Growing Kenaf can remediate soil, removing heavy metals and other toxic chemicals -Plant-based without environmental toxins, therefore can be sustainably disposed of at the end of its lifespan | 2 | -Overall, not expected to have any signficant negative environmental impacts -Most (not all) of its materials biodegrade readily over time, so it can likely be disposed of sustainably at the end of its life -However, A few materials have some ecotoxicity level measured in fish | 0 | -Non biodegradable -Enable to decompose and breakdown in landfills and in the environment -Can leach various toxic chemical into the environment (especially water) that harms animals | -2 | -No known adverse environmental effects | 1 | -Typically, not expected to harm animals, plants, or fish -Non-biodegradable -Typically, non-hazardous disposal -But these products might be treated with chemicals such as formalehyde, which will then leach into the soil and water and cause harm to animals and humans | 0 | -No known significant adverse effects -May be harmful to the environment if disposed of in large quantities -However, A few materials have some ecotoxicity level measured in fish | -1 | -Non biodegradable -Enable to decompose and breakdown in landfills and in the environment -Can leach various toxic chemical into the environment (especially water) that harms animals | -2 | -Non biogredable -May meet the definition of hazardous waste in many cases | -1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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24 | Costs | Cost per ft2 per R-rating | -About $0.06 ft2/R-rating -R15: about $0.82/ft2 R23: about $1.65/ft2 R30: about $1.73/ft2 | 1 | -About $0.17 /ft2/R-rating -R13: about $2.27/ft2 -R19: about $3.02/ft2 Source -NOTE: They have discounts on bulk ordering, for this reason we have awarded them 1 extra point in this category | 0 | Overall average: About $0.15/ft/R-rating Loose Fill: -About .$0.16/ft2/R-rating -R15: $1.75/ft2 -R24: $2.81/ft2 -R31: $3.55/ft2 -R40 $4.66/ft2 Batt Insulation: -About $0.14/ft2/R-rating -R7: $1.35/ft2 -R13: $1.50/ft2 -R20: $2.25/ft2 | -1 | -About $0.28/ft2/R-rating -R5: about $1.35/ft2 -R6: about $1.75/ft2 -R8: about $2.30/ft2 -R12: about $3.45/ft2 | -2 | -About $0.05/R-rating See the calculations: -About $14.50 To make 45 Gallons (6ft3) -About $2.50 at Target for 2 cups Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid -About $12 at Lowes for 94lbs of cement -11 Gallons of water -6ft3 would be 12ft2 at 6inches thick, which would be about R23.4 (assuming R-value of 3.9 per inch of commericial product) -This comes out to $0.05/R-rating | 1 | -Average $0.11 ft2/R-rating -R7: $1.10/ft2 -R13: $1.35/ft2 -R20: $1.95/ft2 -R28: $2.50/ft2 | 0 | -About $0.05/ft2/R-rating -R15: $0.80/ft2 -R23: $2.04/ft2 -R30: $3.30/ft2 | 1 | -About $0.56/ft2/R-rating -R2.07: $1.42/ft2 -R3.94: $2.09/ft2 -R7.88: $7.12/ft2 -R16: $7.99/ft2 -R33: $12.27 -R48: $17.28/ft2 | -2 | -Can buy HempCrete directly at https://hempcretedirect.com/shop/hempcrete-blocks (no price listed, you have to get a quote from them) -You can buy all the ingredients (HempCore and Binders -You can also purchase your own HempCrete Spray Machine -Likely more expensive than regular concrete, estimates are that it is 3X the cost of regular concrete | -1 | -Estimated $0.10-$0.25/R-rating -Estimates online include $4 per ft2 for 4inches (R15.6), and $2.25/ft2 (R-21) -Website doesn't provide clarity on actual price | -1 | -About $0.01-$0.05 ft2/R-rating -One source: $0.50-$100/ft2 at R-50 (GreenBuildingAdviser) -Another source estimates $1.5/ft2 (at 18in thick, so total R-rating of about 27) -Bales range from $2-$15 (Permies.com) - depends greatly based on location -Total R-rating for straw bales can range from R-17 to R-54 (BuildingWithAwareness, CarbonSmarth), Tested R-values) -Straw bales average about 3.5ft2 | 2 | -About $0.06 ft2/R-rating -R13: about $0.77/ft2 -R19: about $1.03/ft2 | 1 | -About $0.13-$0.21 ft2/R-rating -$240 to purchase Panels, but website is incredibly unclear as to how many panels you get with a purchase, there is an image of panels being packaged in sets of 10, so for this calculation I will assume it is $24 per panel -Panel is 19.3ft2 (2.9inches thick, so R-rating 5.8-9.3) -About $1.24/ft2 -Website claims that Kenafrcrete allows the less wealthy to be empowered and allows for sustainable, inexpensive housing to be produced. Therefore, in Malaysia where this product is produced this is a relatively inexpensive option -However, getting insulation shipped from Malaysia would be costly financially and environmentally -Another option might be to make DIY Kenafcrete, which would entail finding a place to purchase Kenaf Wood Core, or to purchase seeds and grow the plant and make your own Kenafcrete, this would be much more time- and labor-intensive | -2 | -About $0.01 ft2/R-rating -R19: about $0.23/ft2 | 2 | -About $0.10 ft2/R-rating -R5: about $0.63/ft2 -R7.5: about $0.78/ft2 -R10: about $1.09/ft2 -R13: about $1.25/ft2 https://www.lowes.com/search?searchTerm=styrofoam+insulation | 0 | -About $2.56/ft2/R-rating -R4.05: $10.38/ft2 -10mm thick (0.39 inches), at R10.3/inch this is R-rating of 4.05 -http://www.buyaerogel.com/product/spaceloft-10-mm-cut-to-size/ | -2 | -About $0.04 ft2/R-rating -R13: about $0.6/ft2 -R20: about $0.75/ft2 -R30: about $1.01/ft2 https://www.lowes.com/search?searchTerm=fiberglass+insulation | 2 | -Not listed anywhere | 0 | -The costs are dependent on how the recycled Styrofoam is produced -By looking at the table in https://www.onecommunityglobal.org/best-small-and-large-scale-polystyrene-styrofoam-recycling-reuse-and-repurposing-options/ you are able to see that it is cost effective to create your own insulation blocks but it gets more expensive as more machinery and labor is added | 0 | -Cost not available anywhere unless you speak to a contractor | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
25 | Processes (Installation, Transportation, Handling, Storage, Disposal, Cleanup) | Installation: Good (1 points) -DIY installation saves on costs -If you pay to have it installed: -Cost of labor, including site prep, installation, trash removal, and work area cleanup -Estimated 10.7 hours of labor, ranging from about $400 to $900 for about 1000 ft2 at R11 -Use this site to explore estimated costs for different R-ratings, square footage, and labor types: Fair Cost Guide Transportation: Good (1 point) -Non hazardous, so no special precautions -Can be found at local hardware stores, which saves shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Need to keep dry and in original packaging until use, but the product is not large so this doesn't require extra costs Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Non hazardous, so no extra costs -Easy and safe cleanup of dust via sweeping/vacuuming | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, so not extra precautions or costs -Purchase online from US based location, so pay for shipping and handling costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Need to storage in a dry area, but not a large product so shouldn't cost extra Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous -Flexible disposal -Can be recycled, incinerated, or composted | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, so not extra precautions or costs -Purchase online from US based location, so pay for shipping and handling costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Need to storage in a dry area, but not a large product so shouldn't cost extra Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous -Flexible disposal -Can be recycled, incinerated, or composted | 2 | Installation: Good (1 points) -DIY installation saves on costs -If you pay to have it installed: -Cost of labor, including site prep, installation, trash removal, and work area cleanup -Estimated 10.7 hours of labor, ranging from about $400 to $900 for about 1000 ft2 at R11 -Use this site to explore estimated costs for different R-ratings, square footage, and labor types: Fair Cost Guide Transportation: Good (1 point) -Non hazardous, so no special precautions -Can be found at local hardware stores, which saves shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Need to keep dry and in original packaging until use, but the product is not large so this doesn't require extra costs Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Non hazardous, so no extra costs -Easy and safe cleanup of dust via sweeping/vacuuming | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 points) -Should be able to get most supplies at a local hardware store -Might want/need to purchase some special items online, such as Dragon Foamers, but once you have this the rest of the supplies can be obtained locally Storage: Average (0 points) -No additional precautions or costs Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) --Nonhazardous, no extra costs or precautions for cleanup and disposal | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, so no extra costs or precautions -Purchase online from US location, so pay for shipping and handling Storage: Average (0 points) -No info -Assume you need to keep it dry Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous -Biodegradable | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, so no extra costs or precautions -Purchase online from US location, so pay for shipping and handling Storage: Average (0 points) -No info -Assume you need to keep it dry Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 point) -Non hazardous, so no extra costs | 1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, so not extra precautions or costs -Purchase online from US location (Small Planet Supply for Western US,EcoSupply for Eastern US), so pay for shipping and handling costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Need to storage in a dry area, but not a large product so shouldn't cost extra Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous -Flexible disposal -Can be recycled, incinerated, or composted | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Purchase online from US location, so pay for shipping and handling Storage: Average (0 points) -Not much specific info -Likely need to storage in dry place -Non hazardous so not extra costs or precautions necessary Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous, no extra costs or precautions for cleanup and disposal -Biodegradable | 2 | Installation: Average (0 points) -Installation performed by technicians, but no price estimates online Transportation: Good (1 point) -Manufactured in the US -Technicians come to you, so you don't pay for shipping and handling costs (contractor transportation costs are likely written into the overall installation cost) -Storage: Average (0 points) -No additional precautions or costs Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, no extra costs or precautions for cleanup and disposal | 1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Bad (-1 point) -Variable -Straw bales are large, can be costly to transport -Depends greatly on proximity to straw bale supplier -Storage: Bad (-1 point) -Depends on situation, weather, size of structure, amount of straw to cover, availability of straw from local sources which can allow you can purchase the material in waves, and availability of cover at the site -Tarps can be used if no structural cover exists -With all of this in mind, most situations it will be a large but low-to-medium cost material to store (we scored this 1 negative point because in) Cleanup/Disposal: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous, no extra costs or precautions for cleanup and disposal -Can be composted and can safely biodegrade | 0 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 point) -Nonhazardous, so no extra costs or precautions -Can find at local hardware stores, saving shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Dry indoor strorage Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -"Dispose in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local environmental regulations." | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs -Transportation: Bad (-1 point) -Product is manufactured and distributed in Malaysia, therefore transportation costs are high -If you are building near a Kenafcrete distributor, the transportations costs might be lower than average due to the lightweight, modular panels Storage: Average (0 points) -No info Cleanup/Disposal: 1 point -Nonhazardous, no special costs or precautions -Biobased, so can it'll decompose over time, granting flexibility for disposal methods | 1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 point) -Can be found at local hardware stores -Can be transported normally, as a nonhazardous material Storage: Average (0 points) -Store in dry indoor location -No additional precautions or costs Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Deemed nonhazardous in terms of disposal -Large quantities can cause local contamination of water if it is spilled, but as long as it doesn't spill in large quantities and contaminate water sources, the cleanup will not require extra costs or precautions | 2 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 point) -Manufactured in the US -Can find at local hardware stores, saving shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -store in dry place, ideally with good ventilation -Storage period: 3 months -Cleanup/Disposal: Bad (-1 point) -Do not dump into sewers, water, or on ground -"Dispose of contents/ container to an approved waste disposal plant" -"The preferred options include sending to a licensed, permitted: Recycler. Reclaimer. Incinerator or other thermal destruction device." | 1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Average (0 points) -Nonhazardous, no extra costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Storage in covered, dry area Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Landfill disposable with no respirable fiber content. | 1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 point) -Manufactured in the US -Can find at local hardware stores, saving shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -Store in dry, cool location -No special costs or precautions -Cleanup/Disposal: Average (0 points) -Not expected to be hazardous waste -No extra costs or precautions | 2 | Installation: Average (0 points) -Performed by technicians -Price not listed anywhere Transportation: Good (1 point) -Manufactured in the US -Technicians come to you, so you don't pay for shipping and handling costs (contractor transportation costs are likely written into the overall installation cost) -Handling/Storage: Bad (-1 point) -Make sure there is a sufficient amount of neutralizing/ absorbent material near the storage area -Must be adequate ventilation -Must have eyewash station and safety showers nearby -Need eyewear, chemically impervious gloves, and respirators (you don't need to purchase these those since it is installed by technicians) Cleanup/Disposal: Bad (-1 point) -"Dispose of surplus and nonrecyclable products via a licensed waste disposal contractor" -"Waste should not be disposed of untreated to the sewer" -More cleanup protocols | -1 | Installation: Good (1 point) -DIY installation saves on costs Transportation: Good (1 point) -Using recycled materials saves on transportation costs -Other supplies such as Great Stuff can be found at local hardware stores, saving shipping costs Storage: Average (0 points) -No additional costs or precautions -Cleanup/Disposal: Bad (-1 point) -Do not dump into sewers, water, or on ground -"Dispose of contents/ container to an approved waste disposal plant" -"The preferred options include sending to a licensed, permitted: Recycler. Reclaimer. Incinerator or other thermal destruction device." | 1 | Installation: Average (0 points) -Performed by technicians -Estimated total cost: $4500 for 2000 ft2 in climate zone 5 (Source) Transportation: Good (1 point) -Manufactured in the US -Technicians come to you, so you don't pay for shipping and handling costs (contractor transportation costs are likely written into the overall installation cost) -Storage/Handling: Average (0 points) -Store in well ventilated area -Possible pressure build up Keep away from water, amines, alcohol -Handled only by trained personnel Cleanup/Disposal: Bad (-1 point) -"It may meet the criteria of a hazardous waste" "It is the responsibility of the waste generator to determine the proper waste identification and disposal method." | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
26 | Additional Physical Materials (Tools, Supplies) | -Insulation can be cut with bread knife | 0 | -Little to no special tools and supplies necessary -Don't need glue or adesives because its a pressure fit system | 0 | -A typical insulation blower will not work. A commercial vacuum is recommended | -1 | -Insulation can be cut with bread knife | 0 | Might want/need: -Dragon XL Foamer: $459 -Little Dragon Foamer: $499 -Some sort of electric mixer (Mixing paddle or electric mixer): $20-$80 -Air compressor: about $115 | -1 | -Recommended to use a table saw -Don't need glue or adesives because its a pressure fit system | 0 | -None | 0 | -None | 0 | -Might want a forced action pan mixer for large amounts, or a conventional rum cement mixer for smaller amounts -Might want a Press and mold if you want to make blocks -HempCrete Spray Machine: $7500 | -2 | -None needed | 0 | -Might need a chainsaw -Might need to have thicker plaster which could increase costs | -1 | -Don't need glue or adesives because its a pressure fit system | 0 | -None, if you purchase the insulation itself -But if you plan to make your own Kenafcrete you might want/need to purchase Mixers and Sprayers | -1 | -Might want/need: -Rent a blow-in machine (about $125/day) | -1 | -None | 0 | -None | 0 | -None | 0 | -None needed | 0 | -Great Stuff Big Gap Filler: about $5 at Home Depot for 16 oz | 0 | -None | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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28 | DIY | DIY Possibility | -DIY Installation of purchased product -A technician might be useful to ensure the continuity of water resistant, air barrier and thermal and to ensure adequate cladding attachment and drainage and ventilation. -Helpful Installation Guide -Sometimes installed in conjuction with ROCKWOOL Comfort Board 80 | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY Installation of purchased product -A technician might be useful to ensure the continuity of water resistant, air barrier and thermal and to ensure adequate cladding attachment and drainage and ventilation. -Helpful Installation Guide -Sometimes installed in conjuction with ROCKWOOL ComfortBatt | 1 | -DIY production and installation of product -All you need to make it: A Dragon Foamer, a Foam-Injection Mixer, dish detergent, a mixing barrel and a 2.5 cfm air-compressor or bigger -Made using Dragon Foamers (powerful, compact foam generators) | 2 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -Most likely DIY production and installation of the product (unless you find a contractor who specializes in HempCrete) | 2 | -Performed by technicians | -1 | -Likely DIY installation of purchased product (could theoretically grow and construct your own straw bales) -Hiring a professional could be worth it in the long run-- many professionally constructed straw bale homes withstand wildfires that other homemade bales do not | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product -Does not require a certified installer | 1 | -DIY contruction of product possible, DIY installation easy -The fundamental rule when building with Kenafcrete is the ratio should be 4:1:1. 4 parts kenaf wood core , 1 part hydrated lime and 1 part water | 2 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product | 1 | -DIY installation of purchased product possible, but using technicians might be preferred -Can be done by DIY but due to its dangers to residents, one should think about getting professional help -Furthermore, it is often installed incorrectly and and small gaps can reduce efficiency | 0 | -DIY not possible, performed by Technicians | -1 | -DIY constructed from recycled parts, DIY installation of product, | 2 | -Performed by technicians -Application of spray foam that expands up to 100x its size to fill the space -Must evacuate for 24 hours while product is installed and is left to dry. -Installers must have full-body-coverage, chemical-protective clothing and a NIOSH-certified respirator with fresh air supply | -2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
29 | Complexity and Ease | -Straightforward to install, can be done without a technician -It is easy to cut and install for optimal fit (can be cut easily with a bread knife) | 2 | -Can be torn by hand to fit -Wool is safe to handle and install requiring no protective clothing or equipment | 2 | -Installs easily – blow-in and batts are installed like other mediums but with no protection required | 2 | -Straightforward to install, can be done without a technician -It is easy to cut and install for optimal fit (can be cut easily with a bread knife) | 2 | -Easy to produce -Low maintenance Doesn't require skilled labor -Product can be sawed, cut, carved, drilled, or nailed -Easy to work with and repair with simple handheld tools -Can be pumped or poured into molds or forms | 2 | -Non abrasive -Easy to work with -Can order them and cut and install them on your own -No gloves required for handling -Pressure fit system, doesn't need glue or adhesives -Recommend using a table saw to cut panels -Standardized panel sizes | 2 | -As a semi-rigid product that is easy to cut and install, its flexibility allows it to conform to building shapes and construction irregularities -Simply squeeze the sides to compress the insulation and insert into the desired wall | 2 | Basic Installation Guidelines -Very simple and straightforward -Attach with drill and screws, or nailgun | 2 | -More labor-intensive -Can be blocks or sprayed | -1 | -Technicians do not need to wear hazmat suits when installing -Spray application -Consistency of shaving cream when installed which then solidifies to cement -Takes several days to dry but you do not need to vacate your home while it dries since it is nontoxic | 2 | -Can be but with knives or chainsaws -Labor intensive process -Bales are cut to size in order to fill the space -It is common for a layer of earthen plaster to then be applied to the outside and form a solid wall | -1 | -User-friendly installation/DIY -Simply measure, tear, fit and you're done. -No protective clothing needed but perhaps a dust mask. -Perforated batts allows for quick and easy off-size cavity installation. -Since no vapor barrier you may want to add one after batts are installed (install vapor barrier on the living area side of the walls) -Provides Installation Instructions -Doesn't expand well to fill spaces -Some have voiced concerns about it not being sized properly, and it being hard to cut | 1 | -The panels have been designed to allow for quick and standardized installation -Due to its lightweight, builders can complete a house in three to four weeks -No need for expensive building equipment, such as cranes. “With the goal of ‘one day, one house’, the Kenafcrete system only requires unskilled or semi-skilled labour with minimal product training, which will see more affordable housing being built and locals being employed.” | 2 | -Can rent blow-in machine (Home Depot gives free 24 hour rental of machine if you buy 20+ bags) -Can be blown over existing insulation or in new construction | 1 | -Easy to install yourself at home. -However, for sound insulation one should contact a contractor to ensure no holes or gaps are made | 2 | -Easily cut with common construction tools and conformed to complex shapes, tight curvatures, and spaces with restricted access. | 2 | -Often installed incorrectly, suggesting its complicated for DIY installation -Using technicians for installation makes this process simple and straightforward with little/no complications | 1 | -Technician clad in hazmat suit installs this using a high temperature hose whose high heat completes the chemical process necessary for the foam to activate -Certain surfaces may require sanding and/or application of a primer first to ensure the foam adheres | 0 | -Pretty straightforward, few supplies needed, not technicial or physically difficult -To install recycled Styrofoam one can break the Styrofoam into parts or chunks of desired size -One then uses a binding material, such as Great Stuff, and binds the material together to create the first layer. This is continued until an insulation block is created and used within the insulation process -A machinery option is then available to manufacture the recycled Styrofoam | 2 | -Not intended for exterior use. Not to be installed within 3” (76mm) of heat emitting devices or where the temperature is in excess of 180°F | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
30 | Density | 2lbs/ft3 (32 kg/m3) | 0 | 1.2 lbs/ft3 (19.2 kg/m3) | 1 | 1.13 lbs/ft3 (18.1 kg/m3) | 1 | 8 lbs/ft3 (128.1 kg/m3) | -1 | -Expected to be similar to that of Aircrete GREENsulation: -2.07 lb/ft3 (33.2 kg/m3) | 0 | 2.18 lbs/ft3 (34.9 kg/m3) | 0 | 2.5 lbs/ft3 (40 kg/m3) | 0 | 7-7.5 lbs/ft3 (100-120 kg/m3) | -1 | -Inconsistent, but allegedly more lightweight than many insulation products | 0 | 2.07 lb/ft3 (33.2 kg/m3) | 0 | -7-12lbs/ft3 (112.1-192.2 kg/m3) (Source 1, Source 2) -Much larger and heavier than other insulation options -More difficult to transport and install | -1 | 1.2 lbs/ft3 (19.2kg/m3) | 1 | About 6.25 lbs/ft3 (100.1 kg/m3) | -1 | -Covers 40 sq. ft. per 19 lbs; -9 LB/FT3 compressed -About 3.5 lb/ft3 installed (56.1 kg/m3) | 0 | About 1.6-1.9 lb/ft3 (25.6-30.4 kg/m3) | 1 | 9.4 lbs/ft2 (150 kg/m3) | -1 | -The weight of fiberglass insulation is dependant on the style used, batts or loose -Seems to range from 0.7-2.0 lbs/ft3 (11.2-32 kg/m3) -Average of 1.35lbs/ft3 (21.6 kg/m3) | 1 | 2.1 lb/ft3 (33.6 kg/m3) | 0 | About 1.6-1.9 lb/ft3 (25.6-30.4 kg/m3) | 1 | 0.5 lb/ft3 (8kg/m3) | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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32 | Durability | Durability | -They claim it should last the lifespan of the building -Since the material is inorganic it will not decay, rot, or decompose over time, so assuming no physical damage its insulation properties will remain over time | 2 | -Sheep wool is naturally very durable, a single wool fiber is stronger than steel of the same diameter -Allegedly last the lifetime of the building -Resistant to compaction which maintains insulation performance (allegedly lasts for more than 50 years) | 2 | -Claim it will last the life of the structure -Wool fiber properties yield a longer life than man-made fibers -Life Expectancy: 75 years (According to International Living Future Institute) | 2 | -They claim it should last the lifespan of the building -Since the material is inorganic it will not decay, rot, or decompose over time, so assuming no physical damage its insulation properties will remain over time -Higher density allegedly makes it more durable | 2 | -Until proven otherwise, we expected this to have durability comparable to that of Airkrete GREENsulation, which overall claims to be durable, but has concerns about shrinkage over time which reduces the air seal | 0 | -Website claims it is long-lasting and durable, it derives its strength from resilient hemp fibers -Hemp fibers are one of the most durable natural fibers | 2 | -Reference Service Life (RSL) 75 years | 2 | -Durability of 50 to 60 years without loss of characteristics | 2 | -Claims it is durable and long-lasting -Another source says it can last over 100 years (Source) | 2 | -Durable, doesn't rust, decompose, or rot over time -Some accounts of shrinkage over time, reducing the air seal -Loses durability if exposed to moisture consistently over time -"If exposed to frequent vibration, such as along a busy highway, the foam can begin to disintegrate, reducing its performance" - https://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/article/foam-in-place-insulation | 0 | -Straw bale can last for over 100 years if properly maintained -If the straw gets wet and stays wet it can start to decompose, reducing the lifespan of the product | 1 | -Should last 30-50 years (Source 1, Source 2) | 2 | -No substantial information regardling durability and lifespan -Some concerns based on the fact that this is organic matter, so it might decompose over time | 0 | -Because it is made of recycled materials, this product does degrade over time, the typical lifespan is 20-30 years (Source) -Other products claim they will last the lifetime of the building, but this company makes no such claims about this prouct | -1 | -50 year lifespan | 2 | -Minimum 50 year service life | 2 | -Estimated lifespan of 15 years (Source) | 0 | -Claims of long lifespan and durability, nothing really to back up these claims though | 1 | -Unknown -New styrofoam insulation products can have a lifespan of 50 years, but a DIY styrofoam insulation project with styrofoam that may not be specifically designed for durable insulation is not likely to last as long | -1 | -Claims it has a long lifespan, no supporting evidence or information -Others claim it ought to last the lifetime of the building, and that it should come with a warranty (Source) | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
33 | Moisture Management | -Water and moisture resistant -Low water sorption, which maintains its insulating value -If it does get wet, it will retain its insulation properties after drying out -Moisture Sorption: 0.05% -Sheep wool can absorb 33% of its weight in moisture without compromising its insulating ability | 2 | -Able to absorb, retain, and release moisture without affecting it's performance (maintains thermal performance even after absorbing 30% moisture) -Breathable | 1 | -Wool fibers inherently manage moisture, absorbing and releasing it against 65% relative humidity | 1 | -Water and moisture resistant -Low water sorption, which maintains its insulating value -If it does get wet, it will retain its insulation properties after drying out -Moisture Sorption: 0.05% -Sheep wool can absorb 33% of its weight in moisture without compromising its insulating ability | 2 | -Water resistant -Not fully impervious to water, but it is not harmed or degraded by moisture | 1 | -Vapor permeable, so it allows moisture to pass through | 0 | -Water sorption: less than 1% by volume | 2 | -Maximum moisture content: 8% -Water absorption declared at 0.5 kg/m3 | 2 | -Hemp core can absorb up to 5X its weight in water -Breathable, allowing it to release its moisture readily -Not suitable for humid climates | 1 | -Moisture resistant -If it becomes wet it will dry out and retain its performance characteristics -Low water absorption rate -Over time, it absorbs and retains water, so an outside cover is required, like plaster (Source) -And if exposed to water continuously over time, which means it can expand and crack, so the the strength, durability, and effectiveness of the material decreases (Source) | 1 | -If the straw gets wet and stays wet it can start to decompose, reducing the lifespan of the product -Straw can safely reach 20% moisture content without diminishing insulation properties, but once moisture content surpasses this level the insulatiion properties will diminish (BSC) -Some builders pair straw bale insulation with clay plaster, which stores excess moisture when humid and releases it when the air is dry, thereby protecting the straw from excess moisture -Heated homes in cold climates are more susceptible to wet bales due to the condensation of moisture in the air -This concern is largely mitigated in more arid, warm climates | 0 | -Denim is not moisture resistant, it is cotton-based, which means it is not easy to dry once it becomes wet -UltraTouch is manufactured to breathe and accept/release the moisture it receives in a timely manner. | -2 | -Kenaf fibers naturally have high moisture sorptivity, so they are treated with sodium hydroxide which reduces the amount of water they aborb (Source) -"A finishing lime plaster is then applied to seal the walls, which protects the walls from heavy moisture and still allows the walls to breathe" | 0 | -Manages moisture by creating a full seal prevent water to penetrate the insulate, blocks the movement of moisture laden air -If seal is compromised then the ability to manage moisture is compromised -Hygroscopic, so it can absorb and release water | 1 | -Water absorption: 0.3% | 2 | -Repels liquid water -Water absorption coefficient: 0.01 | 2 | -When it gets wet it absorbs moisture, which reduces its R-value and causes it to slump or sag | -1 | -Water Absorption by Volume: 0.64% | 2 | -For styrofoam designed specifically for insulation: Water absorption: 0.3% -However, there isn't clear data and analysis for DIY styrofoam insulation projects, it is likely that they won't be as effective as commercial products produced specifically to be effective at insulation | -1 | -Water absorption: 5% -"Water can be forced into the foam under pressure because it is open celled. Water will drain by gravity, given favorable drying potential, and upon drying all chemical and physical properties are fully restored." | 1 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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35 | R-value | Per inch: 4.0 R-Rating when installed: -Installation guide shows how to layer Comfort Board 80 and ComfortBatt to reach an R-rating of 23.7, though they say that this design is easily scalable to reach R30, R40, or higher -Guide | 1 | Per inch: 3.7 R-Rating when installed: -At recommended installed thickness of 9.8 inches: 36.25 -Scalable | 0 | Wool Batts: Per Inch: 3.6 Loose-fill: Per inch: 4.3 Overall Average: 3.95 | 1 | Per inch: 4.2 R-Rating when installed: -Installation guide shows how to layer Comfort Board 80 and ComfortBatt to reach an R-rating of 23.7, though they say that this design is easily scalable to reach R30, R40, or higher -Guide | 2 | Expected to be comparable to Airkrete GREENsulation: Per inch: 3.9 | 1 | Per inch: 3.7 R-Rating when installed: -No stated ideal thickness -Variable -Scalable Products range from R7-R28 Average: R17 | 0 | Per inch: 4-4.3 per inch (average 4.15) | 2 | Per inch: 4 (can range from 3.6 to 4.2, but the label declares 4) | 1 | Per inch: Average of 2.5 R-Rating when installed: -Average: 26.25 -Range: 22.5-30 | -2 | Per inch: 3.9 R-Rating when installed: (ceiling and floor): -Average: 27.3 -Range: 15.6-39 | 1 | Per inch: 1.5 R-Rating when installed: -Average: 35.5 -Range:17-54 *Though the R-value is low per inch, the thickness makes up for this http://www.homeenergy.org/show/article/nav/walls/id/1456/page/4 *Therefore, instead of scoring this strictly based on it's R-value per inch, we are giving it a score of 2 points because due to the thickness of straw bales the total R-vale is expected to exceed that of most insulation products | 2 | Per inch: 3.7-4 (average 3.85) R-Rating when installed: -Unclear what the expected total thickness would be -Their products range from R8 (2inches) to R30 (8inches) -Average of these values: 19 | 1 | Per inch: 2-3.2 (average 2.6) R-Rating when installed: -9 inch thick walls have an 18-29R insulation value. Average: 23.5 | -2 | Per inch: 3.7 R-Rating when installed: -Average: 36.5 -Range: 13-60 | 0 | Per inch: 5 R-Rating when installed: -No specified ideal thickness -Products (at Lowes) range from R5 to R13 -Scalable by adding layers | 2 | Per inch: 10.3 | 2 | Per inch: Batts: 2.9-3.8 Loose: 2.2-2.9 Overall average: 3 R-Rating when installed: -If installed in 2x4 wall cavity (3.5 inches thick): R7.7-R13.3 | -2 | Per inch: 6 R-Rating when installed: -Range: R24-R66 -Average: R45 | 2 | -The R-value of polystyrene is dependent on the density of the insulation block, and the R-value of the product used | 0 | Per inch: 3.7 R-Rating when installed: -Maximum for walls: R27.8 -Maximum for ceiling: R42.6 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
36 | Certifications and Awards | -GREENGUARD Gold Certified -LBC Red List Free -LEED Points | 1 | -Can help score LEED points | 1 | -LEED Certified -US Green Building Council Certified –International Living Future Institute, Delcare: LBC Red List Free -Bureau of Household Goods And Services, Certified Insulation Material | 1 | -LBC Red List Free -LEED Points | 1 | -No specific info | 0 | -Can help score LEED credits in the following categories: Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Air Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority LEED Guide | 1 | -Can contribute to LEED credits | 1 | -FSC Certificate -Sustainable Habitat Cluster Gold Seal of Sustainability -Can help score LEED points in several categories | 1 | -Can help score LEED credits in the following categories: Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Air Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority LEED Guide | 1 | -Winner of the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize for Climate Change | 1 | -Can help score LEED credits in the following categories: Materials and Resources, Indoor Environmental Air Quality, Innovation, and Regional Priority Source, LEED Guide | 1 | -LEED Certified Green building material | 1 | -No info | 0 | -Contributes to LEED Points under the LEED Green Building Design and Construction Rating System and LEED for Homes Rating System | 1 | -Contributes to LEED points in several categories: LEED Points | 1 | 0 | -Depending on the brand and product, can contribute to LEED credits in the following categories: Energy & Atmosphere Minimum, Energy Performance, and Indoor Environmental Quality | 1 | -Greenguard Gold Certified - Low VOC Emissions -LEED Points: can earn commercial and residential projects up to ten LEED certification points | 1 | -No info | 0 | -Can contribute to LEED points in the following categories: Energy & Atmosphere, Innovation & Design, Materials & Resources and Indoor Environmental Quality -Can contribute to NAHB Green Building Standard -Green-approved according to the National Green Building Standard of the National Association of Home Builders. | 1 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
37 | Sound Absorbancy (Noise Reduction Coefficient) | -NRC: 1.05 -Due to its unique non-directional fiber structure and higher density it has better dimensional stability and is more effective against noise | 1 | -NRC of sheel wool: 0.75 -No info for this product specifically | 1 | -NRC for loose fill: 0.95 -NRC for batts: 0.9 | 1 | -NRC: 1.05 -Due to its unique non-directional fiber structure and higher density it has better dimensional stability and is more effective against noise | 1 | -Expected to be near that of Airkrete GREENsulation (NRC: 0.75) | 1 | -NRC of hemp: 0.75 | 1 | -NRC: 0.95-1.25 depending on specific ThermaFiber product | 1 | -NRC: 0.41 | 0 | -NRC of hemp: 0.75 | 1 | -NRC: 0.75 | 1 | -NRC: 1.15 | 1 | -NRC: 1.15 | 1 | -NRC: 0.69 | 0 | -NRC: about 0.6 | 0 | -NRC: 0.59 | 0 | -NRC: 0.7 | 0 | -Typically about NRC: 0.75 | 1 | -NRC: 0.75 | 1 | -At best, NRC of manufactured Styrofoam Insulation (0.59) | 0 | -NRC: 0.7 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
38 | Vapor Barrier | -No vapor barrier -A vapor barrier may be required when insulating exterior wall cavities | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Plasterboard should then be applied and a vapor barrier where necessary | 0 | -No vapor barrier -May need in install a vapor barrier where necessary | 0 | -No vapor barrier -A vapor barrier may be required when insulating exterior wall cavities | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Likely need in install a vapor barrier | 0 | -No vapor barrier -May need in install a vapor barrier where necessary | 0 | -No vapor barrier -A vapor barrier may be required when insulating exterior wall cavities | 0 | -No vapor barrier -A vapor barrier may be required when insulating exterior wall cavities | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Does not need a vapor barrier as it is a breathable wall system, moisture passes through it without getting trapped | 1 | -No vapor barrier -Likely need in install a vapor barrier | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Seems that it's not recommended to add a vapor barrier, as it is important for the bales to be able to breathe | 1 | -No vapor barrier -May need in install a vapor barrier where necessary | 0 | -No info | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Recommended not to install a barrier | 1 | -Acts as a vapor barrier (just needs to be taped to be seals where insulation meets timber) | 1 | -No vapor barrier, its vapor permeable -Likely need to install a vapor barrier | 0 | -No vapor barrier -Likely need in install a vapor barrier | 0 | -Acts as insulation, air barrier, vapor barrier, rain screen, and radon protection | 1 | -Not expected to act as a vapor barrier -Might need to install one | 0 | -Icynene doesn’t completely block vapors unlike polyurethane spray foams do. Seems that a vapor barrier can be added on. Some of Icynene's products do have a vapor barrier, but the open cell products definitely don't | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
39 | Misc Notes, Pros, and Cons | -Excellent customer reviews: 4.8/5 stars from 423 reviews as of April 2021 -From reviews, almost all focused on benefits, the main cons see to be availability and cost (but here the Cost to R-value ratio is good) | 0 | -Only 3 customer reviews on site as of April 2021, but all of them 5 stars and spoke incredibly highly of it, highlighting that it is easy to install, healthy and safe, sustainable, and "there is not a day that goes by that we’re not thankful and convinced that we made the right decision" | 0 | -Great customer reviews: 4.9/5 stars from 31 reviews on Google as of AUGUST 2021 -From reviews, customers highlight customer service, health & safety, and ease of installation -On their website, 5/5 stars from 98 reviews of their products as of April 2021 (Source) | 0 | -Very good customer reviews: 4.6/5 stars from 68 reviews as of April 2021 -From reviews mostly validates all claims made about the product, cons mentioned multiple times include price and availability | 0 | -DIYability of both production and installation makes this product unqiue, winning the tiebreak with Hempitecture HempWool | 0 | -Not DIY, losing to DIY Aircrete in the tiebreaker | 0 | -Great customer reviews: 4.6/5 stars from 204 reviews as of August 2021 | 0 | -Less conventional, so less research and and resource on it -Requires thicker walls than many insulation products so total square footage of living spaces are reduced | 0 | -"The company, however, has declined to participate in the industry standard VOC test as well as the proper R-value test, so there is some doubt around this product's claims -We don't know what the undisclosed 2% of this product's ingredients are" - https://www.mychemicalfreehouse.net/2013/01/zero-voc-insulation.html | 0 | -Straw bale construction is on the "up and coming"-- it might be hard to find a straw bale contractor in your area -May not follow your local building codes -Thicker walls can also serve to reduce your useable square footage | 0 | -Doesn't have a vapor barrier, check your local building codes | 0 | -Similar to hemp insulation product, the ability to find a breakdown of the products composition is difficult -Therefore, the ability to know if such a product consists of unethical or unsustainable materials is unattainable -The panels are full structural building elements which do not need casting reinforcement -The panels are 50-60% lighter than concrete -In comparison to GreenFibers Blended Blow-In Insulation, this product wins the tiebreaker because many of its cons (cost, high transportation energy, and lack of transparency such as Health and Safety Data sheets) could be mitigated by mixing your own Kenafcrete, while the cons of Greenfiber's product (primarily toxicity concerns, as well as durability) cannot be mitigated | 0 | 0 | -Insulation is incompatible with most electrical wiring -However, beats Aspen Aerogel Spaceloft in tiebreaker in part because it is more established as an insulation product and is far more available, also not only did Spacelofts many -2 point scores, but it is important to highlight that this is far and away the most expensive product (about 5x more expensive than the next most expensive product), and has the highest Global Warming Potential of any product (about 4x higher than the second most). | 0 | -Loses to Styrofoam Boards in tiebreak because Styrofoam as an insulation product is more established as an insulation product, and is far more available, also in addition to Spacelofts multiple -2 point scores, it is important to highlight that this is far and away the most expensive product (about 5x more expensive than the next most expensive product), and has the highest Global Warming Potential of any product (about 4x higher than the second most). | 0 | 0 | 0 | -Spray foams completely seals holes, which means it covers the best and insulates the best | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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41 | Final Score | 27 | 27 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 20 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 7 | 4 | 2 | -2 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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