Why use cork for insulation?
If you are looking for a sustainable insulation material with fantastic pedigree that’s 100% natural then look no further than Cork.
Renewable
It is considered a renewable material because it comes from the bark of the cork oak. It can be repeatedly harvested without killing the tree for over 200 years. While cork has long been an attractive choice for flooring, it is now being used to provide building insulation boards.
Like cork flooring cork insulation is made from granules of cork that are left over after wine corks have been punched out of the bark.
The cork granules are treated under pressure and heat to release a natural binder for the expanded cork which is formed into boards and then cut to size.
Expanded Cork
The expanded cork has an insulation value which is very good but isn’t quite as good as the highest performance materials, but is comparable to fiberglass batts.
Expanded cork insulation is at present a comparatively expensive material when compared with other insulation materials. However cork does not rely on petrochemicals for its manufacture, and offers an all-natural insulation product that will definitely appeal to sustainable builders and building owners.
Sound Absorption
In addition to its energy performance cork insulation is highly flame resistant, helps with sound absorption, and does not off gas any significant VOCs.
Our consultants advise that cork as an insulation for external renders is well tried and tested and is well worth your consideration.
Application Methods
- Internal Wall Insulation (Can receive direct plastering, no plasterboard required)
- External Wall Insulation (With or without External Rendering)
- Acoustic Insulation
- Warm-Roof Insulation
- In-Roof Insulation
- Floor Insulation (on top of or under slab)
- Floor Insulation on top of floorboards
- Light Weight Insulation Screeding System
Here is an example of a home which has used cork insulation as its exterior cladding. Grand Designs magazine. ‘Self-builders are often keen to embrace innovation when it comes to sustainability. Discover why American architect Nathan Dalesio of Multitude Studio chose cork cladding for the exterior of his family home.
We do hope you’ve found our information useful. Our Heating and Energy consultants can visit your home and advise you on ways you can save energy. For more details.
If you are planning to make your home more energy efficient or overhaul your heating system and are interested in some independent expert advice then do get in touch. Call 01923 896550, email info@cl-m.com or complete a contact form.
