Fiberglass wool is made from strands of molten glass. The microscopic fibres are strong yet lightweight. Fiberglass wool comes in two types: soft and rigid. Rigid fiberglass wool is best used in acoustic panels, which gives the panel a firmer touch. Its rigidity provides some resistance at these areas, increasing the longevity of these panels. The binders used in rigid fibreglass wool sometimes gives an acrid smell but should outgas in a week.

Benefits of Fiberglass

Fiberglass wool is also commonly used for thermal insulation and shares the same incombustible properties as rockwool. When exposed to heat, it will not emit smoke or toxic products. In the long run, fibre glass is also a good option because it does not retain moisture and will not attract insects.

Fiberglass insulation also known as glass wool is the oldest and popular insulation material in Kenya and other parts of the World. It was discovered in the 19th century by a researcher named Russel Games. The glass wool insulation has been in existence for over 80 years having almost same properties and uses with other insulation materials such as rock wool insulation , styrofoam, polyethylene foam

Fiberglass Insulation Installation

Fiberglass insulation is very economical and easy to install within studs and timber joists. Based on experiments glass wool has an R-Value of 2.2 to 2.7 per inch which is lower than that of rock wool insulation. Mineral wool or rock wool has an R Value of 3.0 to 3.3 per inch. The glass wool can be sold with or without paper cover or reflective foil. This insulating material can be installed in single or several layers for increased sound efficiency

Fiberglass Insulation Hazards

Fiberglass insulation may cause temporary irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory tract. Avoid contact with eyes and skin, wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing, gloves and eye protection when handling and applying the material. Wash with soap and warm water after handling

Unusual Fire Hazards: Fiberglass insulation is a non-flammable product. The kraft and foil facing and packaging material will burn; caution should be used when working close to the facing or packaged material with open flame. Chemicals in adhesives, facings or plastic packaging products that do not present a health hazard under normal conditions may be released during a fire. Toxic fumes and gases that may result from incomplete combustion include carbon monoxide, hydrogen chloride and low-level cyanides. In case of overexposure, remove to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and consult a physician

Fiberglass for Thermal Insulation

Fiberglass insulation blankets have become a product of choice in thermal (heat) insulation applications in Kenya. The Fiberglass blankets have a temperature rating of 538°C, making it ideal variety of places. In addition to excellent thermal insulation properties, fiberglass is lightweight, flexible and cost effective.

• Boilers & Steam Pipe lagging: Most steam boilers used in food industries use fiberglass blankets as the primary insulation material due to the low costs and effective thermal insulation. It is also light in weight making suitable to use in steam pipe lagging.

• Ovens, Barbecues, Fireplaces: Pizza Ovens and barbecues among other domestic ovens get very hot which can lead to injuries to the users. Fiberglass insulation comes in handy as oven insulation material due to the excellent thermal insulation properties and durability.

• Roof Insulation/Ceilings: Fiberglass insulation blanket is used for heat sisalation in hot or cold areas due to lightweight and cost effective. These applications include both residential houses, office blocks or industrial uses.

• Shipping Containers & Container Houses: The rise of container houses has led to a rise in demand of fiberglass blankets in Kenya. Compared to other thermal insulation materials for containers, such as polystyrene (styrofoam) or polyethylene foam, fiberglass blankets are economical, technically better and due to high fire rating.

Fiberglass for Sound Insulation

Fiberglass blankets have good Sound insulation properties. The 50mm has a Noise Reduction Co-efficient (NRC) value of 0.80 which is way ahead of many other sound insulation materials available in our market.

You can use fiberglass insulation blankets for sound absorption and soudproofing of;

• Studios, Audition halls: music or radio studios and audition halls use fiberglass in their construction to absorb the noises around or prevent echoes.

• Board room: Corporate board rooms are currently using fiberglass in their construction to ensure they are soundproof.

• Residential Houses: Fiberglass insulation to soundproof houses near busy roads or industries. This also includes the container and sheet houses.

• Schools and Hospitals: Fiberglass insulation to soundproof schools and hospitals near busy roads or industries to ensure conducive environment.

• Entertainment joints: Night clubs, as well as matatus and personal cars use fiberglass blankets for sound insulation.

Features of Fiberglass wool Insulation

• Has soft fibers making its installation easy.

• Low thermal conductivity

• Very low noxious/toxic gas release during heat up

• Fire-resistant, non-corrosive, tough and resilient

• Excellent acoustic insulating properties

Cost of Fiberglass Wool Insulation in Kenya

Cost of fiberglass insulation in Kenya varies based on different aspects such as the R value, foil faced, none non-foil faced, rolls or slabs and also thickness and density. The higher the density the higher the price. Bellow is the price of fiberglass insulation

• Glassroc Glass wool Insulation with Foil Density 24kg/m3 Size 10m*1.2m*50mm costs Ksh 11, 500

• Glassroc GlassWool without Foil Density 24Kg/m3 Size 10m*1.2m*50mm costs Ksh 10, 500

• Fiberglass Insulation with Foil Density 14Kg/m3 Size15m*1.2m*50mm costs Ksh 7,500

• Isover Cavity Batt Insulation Density 24Kg/m3 Size 1.2m*0.6m*50mm Costs Ksh 950

Ever wondered what fiberglass insulation is all about? Well Fiberglass insulation also commonly known as glass wool is the oldest and popular acoustic and thermal insulation material. Glass wool insulation has existed in the insulation market for over 80 years

Glass wool is made of sand, recycled glass, limestone and soda ash. These are the same ingredients that are used to make familiar glass objects such as window panes or glass bottles. The glass is spun to form millions of fine fibers.

Insulation Materials Kenya Ltd is a one stop solution for all insulation products. We have a wide range of fireproofing solutions, soundproofing and thermal insulation products for industrial, residential and commercial applications. Our technical team have the knowledge to advise on specifications and installation. Some of our products include; Rockwool, Glass wool, Ceramic fiber blankets, styrofoam sheets, EPS Panels and Polyethylene foam insulation