Insulation

Mineral Wool.

Mineral wool has a moderate CO₂ footprint, but the energy savings it provides over its lifespan are many times greater than production CO₂. It is a climatically sound investment.

Key Figures

Carbon Footprint (GWP): 1.05 kg CO₂-eq/kg
Density: 30–200 kg/m³
Expected Lifespan: 50+ år

What is mineral wool?

Mineral wool is the most widely used insulation in Danish construction. It is made from stone (rock wool) or glass (glass wool) and offers good fire safety, sound absorption, and vapour permeability. Relatively easy to install and recyclable, but with a moderate carbon footprint during production.

Carbon Footprint Compared

Cellulose insulation ← this material 0.12 kg CO₂/kg

Glass wool 0.85 kg CO₂/kg

Mineral wool (stone wool) 1.05 kg CO₂/kg

EPS 3.29 kg CO₂/kg

XPS 4.16 kg CO₂/kg

Negative carbon footprint (green) indicates carbon storage. Data based on EPD averages from ECO Platform and estimates per EN 15804.

Typical Applications

check_circle Roof insulation
check_circle Facade insulation
check_circle Floor insulation
check_circle Attic insulation
check_circle Fire protection

In Renovation

Mineral wool is the standard choice for energy renovation in Denmark. Retrofitting insulation in roofs and exterior walls is typically the most cost-effective investment in energy renovation, and mineral wool is easy to install for both professionals and DIY.

Questions about mineral wool

What is the difference between rock wool and glass wool?

Rock wool is made from melted volcanic rock and has better fire safety and sound absorption. Glass wool is made from melted glass and is lighter and cheaper. Rock wool is primarily used for roof insulation; glass wool for attics.

Is mineral wool harmful to health?

Modern mineral wool (post-1996) is classified as non-carcinogenic by WHO and is safe in use. During installation, a mask and gloves should be worn to avoid skin irritation from fibres.

Can mineral wool be recycled?

Technically yes — mineral wool can be melted and reprocessed into new insulation. ROCKWOOL and other producers offer take-back programmes. In practice, recycling rates are still low but growing.

What is the right thickness for a Danish house?

BR18 typically requires at least 300 mm in roofs and 200 mm in exterior walls to achieve the required U-values. Older houses with 100–150 mm can be beneficially retrofitted with additional insulation.

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