Sustainable development: green insulation

Hemp

Naturally resistant to insects and mould, it is without a doubt the most well known green insulating material. In panels, it is composed of natural fibres for 85%, and polyester fibres for 15% to ensure its maintenance. It is also sold in the form of assembly units of hemp + lime or mineralised aggregate.

Coconut fibre

Good used in walls and floors for sound insulation, it also makes a good thermal break. Fairly impervious, it must be treated with borax to improve its resistance to fire.

Wood wool

Sold in soft or rigid panels, wood wool is originally from sustainably managed forests. It makes very good thermal and acoustic insulating materials..

Sheep wool

Very lightweight, sheep wool has good thermal conductivity and good resistance to fire (B2 class). Exists in panels or rolls.

Cotton wool

Very good thermal insulation, this material is often made from recycled cotton. Though it has good durability over time, it must be treated with borax against insects and fungi.

Cork

It’s not just used to make corks! Very good thermal and sound insulation, rot-proof, lightweight, not very flammable (B2 class), and able to withstand humidity without deforming, cork has many advantages. Only inconvenience: it is priced higher than other materials.

Duck feathers

This material is capable of absorbing up to 70% of its weight in water while preserving its insulation properties. Classified C for its fire resistance, it must be treated against acarina and mites.

Flax

Sold in panels, rolls, or bulk, flax has good insulation qualities, both thermal and acoustic. A borax treatment will provide better resistance to fire and insects..

Cellulose wadding

Made from recycled paper, it is thermal and acoustic insulation that is applied by asbestos fireproofing or in panels. A borax treatment protects it from fire, mould, and insects..

Straw

Sold in bales, straw, unlike hay, does not decompose. It therefore has good durability over time but must not be subjected to humidity.