Brands of stone wool for wall insulation. The difference between mineral and stone wool

Stone muscles, stone heart, stone patience. The epithet "stone" is used in relation to something strong, resistant. But, let's talk about the actual stone object - cotton wool.

It is not only woolen or cotton. One of the realities of the market stone wool. Why was something loose and soft attached to the “hard” epithet? Let's figure it out.

Description of stone wool

Mineral stone wool. Mankind "scooped" it in nature. In the 1840s, English industrialist Edward Perry noticed that during volcanic eruptions, sprays of molten lava seize in thin threads in the air.

The businessman recreated the process in the workshops, assuming heat-saving properties stone wool. Characteristics coincided with expectations, but Perry refused production. Workers suffered.

The process of solidification of molten slag was carried out openly. Part of the fibers, as well as near the vents of volcanoes, flew into the air. Shop workers had to inhale frozen strands of stone, and Perry had to pay for the treatment of employees.

Produce heater "Stone wool" already in closed smelters began in 1871 already in Germany. The release of the novelty was launched at the metallurgical plant in the city of Georgsmarienhutte.

Outwardly, stone wool looks more like sugar than regular wool. The threads in the material are just as thin, translucent. However, the orientation of the mineral fibers is chaotic.

This gives the material a density combined with airiness. Resins provide additional fiber adhesion. They serve as a binder. The composition of the insulation is 100% natural.

Types of stone wool

If the first stone wool was made from volcanic slag, then other rocks came into play. Contemporaries know heaters made of limestone, quartz sand, dolomite, diabase, basalt. Features of raw materials determine the properties of cotton wool. Let's start listing the characteristics.

• Slag cotton. Modern samples instead of volcanic origin are of metallurgical origin. The raw material for insulation is slag blast furnaces. Its basis is sulfur oxides of metals. In addition to them, slags include silica, alumina and lime. The latter is calcium oxide.

Silica is silicon oxide and alumina is aluminum oxide. Their mixture forms fibers 4-12 microns thick and 1.5 centimeters long. They are minus pollution and high moisture capacity. Therefore, slag wool is not insulated water pipes and building facades. Inside residential buildings, slag wool is acceptable as long as it is securely covered.

However, more often insulation is used in dry temporary and utility rooms. There slag can withstand up to 50 degrees of frost. In the event of a fire, the insulation will melt already at 300 Celsius.

• Stone basalt wool. Basalt is a volcanic, dense and heavy rock. The insulation from it also turns out to be weighty. This leads to caking of the material under its own weight. However, attached to the walls and roof, the basalt fiber retains its shape. The insulation threads are as short as in slag wool.

This leads to cracking of the fibers and their “sticking to the body, clothes. Therefore, installers do not like insulation. Even with full protective ammunition, cotton wool manages to "get through" to the workers.

• Sand wool is otherwise referred to as glass wool. Sand grains are taken quartz, consisting of silicon oxide. Soda, borax, limestone are added. It turns out glass. The material is artificial, but consisting of natural, mineral components. The resistance of their alloy to fire is less than that of solid stone materials.

Glass wool begins to change structure already at 250 degrees. The same basalt resists even 1,000 on the Celsius scale, and minus tolerates up to 190 degrees. Inferior glass wool and moisture resistance. It is like slag material. Basalt hardly absorbs water.

• Cotton wool from diabase and dolomite is called mineral. Such insulation does not prick and does not absorb moisture. At the same time, the material passes water vapor, however, like all stone wool. The melting point of mineral insulation is average, about 600 degrees. sub-zero temperatures cotton can withstand up to -45.

There is also a classification of stone wool grades. Their main difference is the density of the material. Hence the difference in properties, which is no longer due to the composition, but to the structure.

• P-75. Mark with minimum density per cubic meter. How many kilograms it has can be seen from the name of the brand. Products under it go to the insulation horizontal surfaces with a small load, for example, attics. Under heavy load, cotton wool shrinks, losing heat-saving characteristics.
• P-125. This wool is already suitable for insulation interior partitions, walls, ceilings. At the same time, there is still enough air in the insulation to block noise and retain heat, so to speak, at the highest level.
• P-175. This is already a material of increased density, it is purchased for the insulation of reinforced concrete walls and ceilings. Outwardly, the products look not so much like cotton wool, but like a slab of wood chips.
• P-200. The most dense and hard cotton wool. For every cubic meter, there are 200 kilograms of weight. Brand products are also used for reinforced concrete structures. Density of stone wool is such that the sound insulation is reduced, and the material holds heat worse than its “colleagues” in the shop.

If we take the average indicators of thermal conductivity, then they are minimal for slag wool, they are 0.460-0.480 units. In second place is basalt. Its thermal conductivity is 0.350-0.440. Indicator mineral wool reduced to 0.077, and glass insulation to 0.035.

Stone wool can also be classified according to the form of release. Often, the insulation is twisted tracks, that is, rolls. Plates are produced less frequently. They are different sizes and thickness. Stone wool 50 mm- the most popular option. For extreme insulation, plates with a width of 10 centimeters are used.

Whatever the stone wool slabs are, they are larger than rolls. There are difficulties with transportation. Therefore, the tiled form of release is inferior in demand. Even less often, but already due to narrow specialization, they acquire cylindrical products.

Application of stone wool of this type is associated with the insulation of chimneys, pipelines. In order for the cotton wool to “sit down” on them, there are seams in its cylinders or interlock connections.

Properties and characteristics of stone wool

Warming stone wool attractive from the point of view of environmental friendliness and durability of the material. High temperature resistance is also a plus. Mineral fibers of basalt, for example, are kept under the "sight" of the flame for 3 hours.

True, bituminous binders evaporate already at 200 degrees. The material becomes looser. When further use loses approximately 10% of soundproofing and heat-conducting properties, may shrink.

The average vapor permeability of stone wool is 0.25 units. The indicator is measured in milligrams of water suspension passing through 1 square meter heater for an hour.

"Breathing" of stone wool eliminates the accumulation of condensate. This maintains a healthy indoor climate. So stone wool in the house- a welcome guest, like wood and stone in its usual form.

Stone wool can absorb water, but the maximum is limited to 3% of the insulation area. Mineral and glass threads do not absorb moisture at all. The basalt index is about 1.5%.

Like gypsum, stone fibers are able not only to absorb water, but also to give it away. The reverse process occurs when the surrounding atmosphere dries up.

Application of stone wool

The use of insulation depends on its type and type. Rigid and dense slabs, for example, are good under a floating screed. This is the name of the floor, the leveling layer of which is not adhered to the base slab, separated from it by waterproofing. Insulation is needed in the floor slab.

But, rigid stone wool slabs are especially needed in wet façade systems. This is what is called the design of the house with liquid mixtures, and not with solid panels, for example, siding. Simply put, - wet facade. The density and characteristics of dense blocks of mineral wool allow you to apply the mixture directly on them.

Among the most dense is famous stone woolrockwool. Its tear strength is at least 10 kilopascals. This allows you to attach a wet facade to the insulation boards along with a reinforcing layer.

Affects the use of stone wool and its thickness. Maximum, for example, helps resist deflection. It occurs with non-standard dimensions between the spans of buildings. In this case, they take not only a thick one, but also mount it horizontally. This reduces material consumption.

As you can see, when choosing a heater, you should focus not only on the main characteristics, but also on the form of release. If for the frame the main thing is elasticity, then for the floor - rigidity.

At correct use and selection of stone wool serves at least 50 years. The maximum time spent on the "post" is 100 years. The application has been verified, because the first houses insulated with mineral wool are in the 3rd century.

Pros and cons of stone wool

Time tested is one of the main advantages stone insulation. Ecowool made of paper entered the market, for example. It is both lighter and cheaper and is mounted in a matter of hours by blowing into the base.

At the same time, ecowool has anti-combustible impregnations and protection against decay. Manufacturers promise the insulation the same 50 years of service. However, there are no real examples of such resilience. Stone wool has already shown itself.

Despite the long age of mineral insulation, there are misconceptions about it. It is considered, for example, that stone wool for facades and interior decoration eliminates rodent infestations.

They will not eat stone. The remark is reasonable. However, rats and mice do not eat cotton wool. They live in it. Thin fibers of a heater easily gnaw through. Inside the cotton wool, a network of passages and houses of mice is formed.

Therefore, rodents are not interested in stone material only conditionally. So, in the Moscow news there was a story about a house insulated according to the program overhaul. Mineral wool was driven into the facade.

They didn't cover it everywhere. There was a passage left in the loggia of one of the residents of the house. They were used by rats. Having made their way into the apartment, the rodents killed the domestic turtle. This was the reason for the appeal of the hostess of the animal to television.

undeniable perfect combination in wool of high insulating properties and minimum weight. The small mass of a heater facilitates its installation. Contributes to this and the resistance of wool to temperature extremes, the lack of expansion.

It is possible to lay mineral mats both at -40 and +50 on the Celsius scale. It doesn't matter if it's taken stone wool "TechnoNIKOL", or a lesser known manufacturer. The basic properties of the insulation are the same under any label.

The environmental friendliness of stone wool is overshadowed only by binding components. What kind of resins and resins are rarely explained at all. Theoretically, the adhesive composition of the insulation can be a threat. However, it manifests itself only upon heating and should be small. Binder components in stone wool occupy no more than 7% of the total mass of products.

stone wool price

Usually, stone wool price displayed for packaging. It usually contains several sheets. So, for 4 pieces measuring 100 by 50 and 10 centimeters they ask from 300 to 900 rubles, depending on the density, composition of the insulation and its name. This refers to the name of the manufacturer, its fame.

Four mineral plates measuring 120 by 60 by 5 centimeters cost from 500 rubles. As you can see, rolled products are more profitable. However, the most attractive options are offered when recycling goods.

Selling off the leftovers, some warehouses give stone insulation 3-4 times cheaper than the market price. There are even special utilities. On one of them, the offer of stone insulation at 30-40 rubles per kilogram is relevant.

Today in the building materials market you can buy different types heaters for renovation. Especially popular at present are basalt (stone) and mineral wool (glass wool, glass). Each of the materials has specific features, own characteristics, as well as advantages and disadvantages. Performing the same function at the same time, both materials are very different both in texture and in the method of manufacture. What is the difference between them?

What is the difference between basalt wool and mineral wool

Basalt insulation is based on fiberglass. It is produced by melting gabbro-basalt rocks of rock origin. A slab of this type of basalt wool is very different from a mineral analogue insulation.

Both mineral wool and basalt wool have many of their pros and cons. The insulation underlying the basalt wool is composed of fiberglass, actively mixed with special components, providing a high degree of efficiency and maintaining the water-repellent functions of the insulation.

One slab of basalt wool is much better than the same mineral wool insulation, and is capable of retaining heat. This action occurs due to the fact that the composition of basalt wool is distinguished by a high degree of friability and fiber content. The insulation has a structure that allows the air layers located between the fibrous strips to constantly maintain a predetermined temperature. This building material is intended for insulation of private, cottage and multi-storey buildings.

The main characteristics of basalt wool include:

• Resistance to high temperature (combustion temperature from 600 degrees Celsius);
• The absence of toxic emissions in the material at the time of heating;
• Resistant to mold and dirt;
• Simplicity and convenience in transportation;
• Long service life;
• Low thermal conductivity;
• High vibration resistance;
• Increased sound insulation (noise insulation);
• Moisture resistance.

However, the price of this heater is quite high. In this regard, many very often choose polystyrene instead.

Minvata: photos and advantages of insulation

First of all, it is necessary to pay attention to the fact that the cost of mineral wool is an order of magnitude cheaper than the price at which its basalt counterpart can be purchased. This factor is associated with the availability and low cost of the production process of mineral insulation. This material, being packed, will take up quite a bit of space, which is also an advantage.

Minvata weighs little. This, in turn, also affects its cost, as transportation costs are reduced.

In addition, this insulation is characterized by such an indicator as low density He also speaks in favor of the material in that its lighter weight puts less stress on the structure.

In addition, the material has the following qualities:

• Not prone to flammability, and always shows good performance in terms of biological stability and chemical passivity;
• There is no ability to initiate harmful processes, such as corrosion, in nearby metal surfaces;
• The length of mineral wool fibers is twice as long as the same indicator of basalt fibers. These structural features make cotton wool highly elastic.
• Such material is used in structures where irregular geometric parameters and uneven surfaces prevail.
• The sound insulation of mineral wool is better than that of the basalt counterpart.

One of the main disadvantages of mineral wool is the tendency to shrink. This happens because, after a certain period of time, the fibers made using quartz and glass undergo crystallization. Also, like basalt wool, mineral insulation has advantages. First of all, the following qualities can be distinguished: low density, low load on this structure, low weight, resistance to biological influences, high level elasticity.

Basalt and mineral wool: differences and applications

Both types of insulation can equally be used in the construction and insulation of the house. Their installation methods are also similar. First you need to fit the material in size. After that, the material is laid between the rafters, fastened to the dowels. When installing, be sure to use a vapor barrier. Installation methods can differ only depending on the object that you will build.

In private houses, insulation is used mainly for insulation of the following structures:

• Stan;
• Krishi;
• facades;
• Polov.

The surface must first be primed, then apply glue, on which the insulation itself will be laid. On top of it, you need to re-apply another adhesive layer and a reinforcing mesh. It is advisable to arm everything under decorative coating, And How finishing touch apply plaster.

Which mineral wool is better for soundproofing and insulation

The difference between basalt wool and its mineral counterpart is the presence of dense and short fibers, due to which the plasticity of the material is significantly increased. In addition, the probability of shedding insulation during installation is quite low.

The increased flexibility and elasticity of the material also make it possible to use it for the insulation of structures that have an irregular geometric shape and uneven surface. If we talk about the degree of sound insulation, then it is higher for mineral wool than for its basalt counterpart.

Benefits of basalt wool:

• Long service life;
• Does not lose its main qualities;
• Does not burn.

However, it is impossible to say with accuracy which insulation is better. Mineral wool is much easier to work with, while basalt is better and more expensive.

Heaters: mineral wool or basalt wool, which is better (video)

There are several factors to consider when choosing a heater for your home. You can not focus only on price or density. Other characteristics of the insulation must also be taken into account. The cost of mineral wool, for example, will cost you much less than a stove basalt insulation. In addition, the mineral wool will not be so voluminous, and will take much less area during its transportation than basalt. However, basalt wool will last you longer, and mineral wool at a very high temperature can significantly lose its useful qualities. And if we consider the issue of choice from an economic point of view, then even though basalt wool is more expensive, then taking into account all the pros and cons, it is its use that will be most beneficial.

During the construction of a house or an extension to it, many are faced with the problem of choosing a quality insulation. On the construction market There are many materials presented, so to determine the most suitable one, it is worth learning about some of them in more detail. Many cannot decide what to choose - stone, basalt or mineral wool. But during the choice, it is worth considering the features of the use of insulation, since the named species belong to the same class. To understand whether mineral or basalt wool is suitable, it is worth considering in detail all the features of both types of materials.

Features of basalt wool

The described insulation is also called stone wool. It is made on the basis of fiberglass by melting basalt rock. It should be noted that this breed is used in other areas. For example, it is often used in the construction of roads, monuments and sculptures.

Slab basalt wool is very different from mineral wool, so it’s unreasonable to talk about which insulation is better. When choosing, you need to know exactly in what conditions it will be used. At the same time, each type of heat insulator has its own advantages and disadvantages, which are important to consider. Subject to all the rules of fastening, the material of both types retains heat well.

The basis of the described insulation is fiberglass. In the manufacturing process, additives are used that promote fiber binding. The resulting material has a loose structure, due to which it has good thermal insulation characteristics. Thanks to the space between the fibers, the temperature in the rooms is kept at the same level. This means that when using such a heater, the house will be cool in summer and warm in winter. Often, foil basalt wool is purchased for insulation, which is protected from steam and moisture.

Advantages and disadvantages of basalt wool

High-quality stone wool has many advantages. These include:

But the described material also has disadvantages. An example is the presence of a large number of seams at the joints. If the material is fixed incorrectly or the heat-insulating layer is deformed, thermal insulation properties may be reduced. In addition, the material has high cost, therefore, not all owners of plots who wish to build a house can purchase it.

Protective goggles must be worn when working with basalt slabs. This is due to the fact that it can crumble. It should be noted that foil basalt wool is devoid of this drawback.

The difference between stone wool and mineral insulation

If we consider the features of basalt slabs, it is worth noting a number of their advantages over other heat-insulating materials.

Considering the structure of the described heat insulator, one can notice that short and thick fibers are located inside the material. This allows you to increase the degree of plasticity of the material. This also minimizes the chance of the material falling off while it is attached to the walls.

Features of mineral wool

If we compare the cost of mineral wool and basalt slabs, then it is worth noting that the first can be purchased at a lower price. This is due to the fact that manufacturing process does not require high costs. At the same time, mineral wool is transported in packages and does not require much space during its transportation. Mineral wool is also light in weight, which simplifies the process of transportation.

The benefits of mineral wool include:

• low density;
• chemical passivity;
• no tendency to ignite.

In addition, the mineral wool fibers are twice as long as the fibers of basalt slabs. This makes the material more elastic. Due to its good flexibility, mineral wool can be laid in difficult places. It should be noted that mineral wool has better soundproofing characteristics than basalt wool.

If we talk about the disadvantages of the material, then it is worth noting the large amount of shrinkage. This is due to the gradual crystallization of the fibers inside the material. When choosing mineral or basalt wool, you should find out about the density of the insulation. Depending on this parameter, you can choose the conditions for using the material.

Which material is better

To determine which material is right for you, it is worth comparing the described heaters in more detail. Glass wool has a lower cost than cotton slabs. At the same time, mineral wool has a lower weight, so it is easier to transport.

If mineral wool loses its shape during transportation, it is enough to leave it to lie down for a while and it will return to its original shape. Moreover, such a heater can be used if the surface to be insulated has a complex geometry and many irregularities.

But on the basis of the described advantages, one should not draw final conclusions. Before choosing, it is necessary to take into account the operating conditions of the insulation. In some situations, it is worth choosing mineral wool, and in others, stone. That is why it cannot be said which is better, for example, basalt slabs.

If we consider heaters in terms of their service life, it is worth noting that mineral wool can be used for less time. Stone wool can be used for 50 years.

At the same time, basalt wool can be laid on the ceiling, walls and under the floor covering. This insulation can be used in any conditions and at the same time retain its characteristics. Minvata cannot be applied in some cases. An example is a situation where the insulation can be constantly exposed to moisture. Under the action of water, the thermal insulation characteristics are reduced.

During the construction of residential buildings, many professionals use TechnoNIKOL basalt wool.

Brands of basalt wool

When purchasing stone wool, it is worth considering the scope of this material. If you choose the wrong type of insulation, this can lead to a decrease in its service life. The choice should be made on the basis of data on the density of products:

1. Light boards with a density of about 35 kg per cubic meter. These products are used for insulation. internal surfaces walls and partitions. Also, this type of material is fixed on the ceiling and is used for insulation of pipelines.
2. Soft boards with a density of 75 kg per cubic meter are most often used for insulation attic floors and attic.
3. semi-rigid products. Material density of this type equals 125 kg per cubic meter. They are used in the insulation of horizontal enclosing structures, as well as during the insulation of floors and ceilings.
4. Rigid plates differ in rigidity of 175 kg per cubic meter. Most often, such products are used in cases where it is necessary to insulate the roof or facade of the building.
5. Plates of increased rigidity are used for insulation of roofs and ventilated facades. Their density is 200 kg per cubic meter.

Having considered these values, you can easily choose a heater for own house. When purchasing basalt and mineral wool, one should not focus only on cost.

Sergey Novozhilov - expert in roofing materials with 9 years of experience practical work in area engineering solutions in construction.

Stone wool as a heater is in high demand in the building materials market. There are many manufacturers of stone wool. We offer to consider the features, advantages and recommendations for choosing this material.

Stone wool: origin and manufacturing process

The origin of stone wool is associated with natural process volcanic eruption. As the molten lava rolls down, it separates into fibers and the wind hitting it creates a fibrous structure. This material has high strength and performance characteristics.

The main component from which stone wool is produced are rocks of basalt, metamorphic or marl origin. by the most important indicator high-quality stone wool is the property of acidity, which indicates the amount of acidic and basic oxides in the composition of the wool.

The highest quality stone wool is made from basalt-type rock, into which carbonate additives are added to regulate its acidity.

The high level of acidity of stone wool increases its water resistance, which means it makes the wool stronger and more durable. Another element that is part of stone wool is a binder. Its main function is to bind and fasten the fibers, and to give the product certain form and consistency. The connecting elements are:

• bitumen-based binders;
• binders of synthetic origin;
• combined substances, which include several components;
• binders of bentonite type.

The most popular binding element of stone wool, which is most often used in the process of its production, is a synthetic material, which contains phenol-formaldehyde resins and hydrophobic plasticizing additives.

The material that became the basis for the manufacture of stone wool is called "Pele's Hair". It looked like a thin thread, which was formed from a volcanic rock. Modern stage The production of stone wool resembles the process of a volcanic eruption. Rocks are sent to the furnace, the temperature in which reaches one and a half thousand degrees Celsius. They are melted and subjected to a fiberization process. There are several ways to perform this process:

• blowing method with fans;
• centrifugal and roller methods;
• blowing and centrifugal method;
• a combination of centrifugal blow and spunbond method;
• other methods.

When the rock is divided into fibers, the process of introducing binders and shaping it follows. This process includes spraying a binder that is introduced into the cotton mass or watering the mass with this substance. The stone wool carpet is sent to the process heat treatment, during which the binder begins to perform its functions. The content of the binder is about three percent. Then the stone wool is cut according to the predetermined established dimensions, packed and prepared for sale.

Stone wool features and benefits

The first and most important property of stone wool, which determines its use as a heat insulator, is its high heat-insulating ability. Thanks to this, it copes well with the process of regulating the temperature in the room. In the winter season, stone wool does not let in the cold, and in the summer - the heat. This property depends on the design coefficient, since various materials characterized different levels thermal conductivity. Even at high temperatures, stone wool does not lose its properties and still performs its functions. Therefore, stone wool is not combustible, does not ignite and protects insulated structures from fire.

Temperatures over a thousand degrees Celsius do not affect the characteristics of stone wool. Even at such a high temperature, it does not melt, does not burn and performs its functions properly. Although the evaporation of the binder occurs at a temperature exceeding two hundred degrees. Due to the presence of fireproof properties, stone wool helps to avoid fire and the destruction of the building structure when it occurs. Therefore, stone wool has a fairly wide scope, it is used for thermal insulation of both multi-storey and one-story buildings, schools, offices, private houses, cottages, etc.

Almost all the time of use, the binder, if it is of high quality, ensures that there is no shrinkage and a permanent shape of the wadding. This property helps cotton to resist mechanical stress. After all, it is used not only for thermal insulation of walls, but also for floors that are under constant influence and load. If materials are used as a binder for stone wool Low quality, it eventually loses its shape and does not perform its functions.

Due to the fact that the fibers of stone wool intersect randomly, stone wool is an excellent sound insulator that protects the room from the effects of extraneous sounds and street noise. Interior walls, for which stone wool is used for thermal insulation, are characterized by the presence of a reduced sound level in relation to neighboring rooms.

Another function of the binder is resistance to moisture and vapor permeability. These characteristics allow you to adjust the level of humidity in the room, while excess moisture is not absorbed into the insulation layer, thereby violating its structure, but is brought out. The climate in the room becomes comfortable and favorable for living. The dry state of stone wool ensures that mold, fungus and other microorganisms do not form in it.

Stone wool is an environmentally friendly material, the production of which uses natural materials, not providing negative impact on the environment. The use of stone wool allows for significant energy savings, thereby improving the environment and saving electricity.

Scope of use of stone wool insulation

Among heaters based on stone wool, the most common is stone wool made from basalt rocks. It has the highest water-repellent properties, therefore it is used for warming pools, baths or saunas. It allows you to carry out thermal insulation of pipeline systems and other communications for engineering purposes.

Due to the chaotic distribution of fibers in stone wool, it is able to withstand the greatest loads. Therefore, it is used in the insulation of foundations and floors.

In relation to strength, stone wool is hard and more elastic. Soft structure stone wool is used in unloaded areas of building structures, as well as when laying wells and ventilated facades, which have a low air flow rate and an average ventilation gap.

The use of semi-rigid stone wool is associated with ventilated façade systems that have unlimited air flow. It is suitable for multi-storey structures. It is good to install this type of wool in air duct structures, where it provides their heat and sound insulation and fire safety.

Stone wool of segment, cylindrical or semi-cylindrical type is used for thermal insulation of pipeline systems.

Rigid basalt wool is a suitable option for structures that are subjected to heavy loads.

Stone wool coating is:

• fiberglass;
• foil;
• wire.

Studying about stone wool reviews, we suggest considering the main industries for its use:

1. Insulation of structures for building purposes - stone wool allows you to build thermal, sound and fireproof insulation in buildings for almost any purpose. Stone wool improves the thermal insulation properties of walls, facades, ceilings, floors, chimneys and ceilings.

2. When performing technical insulation, the use of stone wool makes it possible to equip ventilation, air conditioning or smoke extraction systems.

3. When equipping fire protection systems, stone wool increases the fire resistance of building elements such as ceilings or metal constructions. The use of stone wool improves the fire safety of the entire building.

4. In the shipbuilding industry, stone wool provides thermal insulation for ships and their individual parts.

Before you buy stone wool, you should clearly determine its functional load and the amount of area that needs to be thermally insulated.

The price of stone wool insulation depends on such factors:

• manufacturer;
• material density;
• type of binder used in production;
• type of rock from which stone wool is made;
• amount of material;
• the presence of an additional layer of coating.

Stone wool for the facade must be strong and dense, as this part of the building is exposed to the environment.

Previously, the quality of mineral wool was determined based on its density, but this statement is no longer relevant. Since modern stone wool manufacturers are developing a material that, despite its low density, resists mechanical stress well.

Therefore, when choosing stone wool, pay attention to the ratio of strength characteristics to rupture or compression to operational features use of a heater.

When choosing a material, carefully study the manufacturer's recommendations for its use. Most instructions indicate the scope of use of cotton wool. Stone wool is an open-pore insulation that requires an additional layer that protects it from the effects of moisture and water.

Pay attention to the brand of the manufacturer, the Rockwool, Ursa, TechnoNIKOL stone wool is considered the highest quality. If there is a choice between a German manufacturer and another company, it is better to give preference to the first, since stone wool made in Germany has highest quality, due to the fact that the certification bodies of this country are the most picky about these products.

Please note that its cost depends on the density of the material, so you should not choose too dense cotton wool, where there will be enough material of medium or low density.

You should not choose stone wool based on its low cost, it is better to buy more expensive products. As cheap material after a few years, it will lose its properties, and remodeling the facade of a building or floor is much more expensive than buying stone wool of a higher cost.

Pay attention to the location of the fibers, there are three types of mineral wool, determined by this criterion:

• vertical,
• horizontal,
• random arrangement of fibers.

The first and second options increase the resistance of mineral wool to mechanical stress, and the third one has a positive effect on its heat-insulating and sound-proofing properties.

Varieties of mineral wool in relation to its brand

In relation to the density, stone wool is divided into:

1. Mark P - 75 - is used for thermal insulation of unloaded horizontal surfaces, for example attic space, sometimes roofs. This material is appropriate for the insulation of oil, pipelines and gas pipelines.

2. Mark P - 125 - is used for thermal insulation of unloaded areas located both vertically and horizontally. With the help of such cotton they build internal partitions, insulate floors and ceilings. They are suitable for installation in a three-layer brick, aerated concrete, expanded clay concrete system.

3. Stone wool PZH - 175 - suitable for thermal insulation of walls, the basis of which is a metal profiled sheet or reinforced concrete in which there is no concrete screed.

4. ППЖ - 200 - plates of increased rigidity, which increase the fire resistance of structures for engineering and construction purposes.

In relation to stone wool dimensions, they depend on the manufacturer. Order option available individual sizes roll or stone wool slabs.

Overview of stone wool manufacturers

1. "Rockwool" (Denmark) - stone wool, which is very popular and has a large number of benefits. Features of Rockwool stone wool:

• chaotic arrangement of fibers;
• high fire safety and fire resistance;
• moisture resistance;
• soundproofing;
• ensuring energy savings;
• a wide range of products;
• a wide range of applications;
• the use of Rockwool stone wool provides the premises with a healthy and comfortable microclimate;
• high level of strength and resistance to mechanical stress;
• the service life is more than fifty years.

2. "TechnoNIKOL" - produces stone wool based on basalt. Features of this product:

• high heat-saving characteristics;
• fire safety;
• good noise reduction;
• no shrinkage throughout long term use;
• the use of TechnoNIKOL stone wool makes it possible to reduce the cost of building an additional layer of brick or wood;
• The low weight of the product ensures ease of use and easy transportation.

3. Stone wool "Knauf" - is highly resistant to moisture, chemical and biological organisms. Stone wool is produced in the form of cylinders, slabs, rolls, rolled lamellas, facade lamellas. A large assortment products opens up to the buyer the choice of the type of stone wool, which is necessary for the insulation of a certain area. There is a type of stone wool that is stitched with a galvanized mesh. Synthetic resin is used as a binder for standard insulation boards. Material in the form of rolled lamellas, consists of strips, which are interconnected by a layer of aluminum foil.

4. Stone wool "Ursa" - is distinguished by its lightness and elasticity. The material is easily transported due to the presence of special packaging. It has good thermal insulation characteristics. There are options for cotton wool that does not contain formaldehyde, and therefore is absolutely safe and is recommended for use in schools, kindergartens or medical institutions.

Video stone wool:

Now on Russian market many types of modern thermal insulation materials. One of them is stone wool, which has long been used as a heater and enjoys well-deserved popularity. It is this type that will be discussed in the proposed review.

Stone wool as a wall insulation is used when it is required to create thermal insulation in various building structures. It can effectively insulate the ceiling, wall, roof.

Stone wool as insulation

Features and characteristics of this material

The basis for the manufacture of this insulation is rock. She is affected high temperatures, which leads to the formation of fibers. If we talk about the characteristics of this material, then this implies many parameters on which the properties of the insulation depend. Among them are the following indicators:

• The ability to conduct heat. In this regard, the material has a high efficiency. This is ensured by its structure, porosity and airiness. It has been scientifically proven that air is the best barrier to heat loss. The structure of the material is such that a large amount of air is surrounded by its fibers. The purchaser of stone wool as a bonus receives a high fire safety material and good environmental performance.
• Hydrophobicity. In the characteristics of any material for thermal insulation, an important indicator is resistance to moisture. If it absorbs moisture, then its properties will deteriorate significantly, it simply will not be able to fully fulfill its purpose. Stone wool is characterized by high resistance to moisture. Its fibers are not able to get wet. In order to improve these properties, they arrange a "pie", which includes a layer to isolate the steam.

Insulation resistance to moisture

• Density indicators of stone wool for insulation facade walls is essential and affects the properties of thermal insulation.
• It is important to maintain the thickness structure during construction work.

This circumstance is dictated by the following requirements:

• loss of the shape of the insulation leads to a deterioration in its qualities;
• material settling under its own weight is not allowed;
• the material over the entire surface must maintain its uniformity.

How to insulate stone wool fits well into the framework of all these requirements. This is achieved due to the following features:

• Threads are located in different directions. As a result, the material cannot wrinkle and settle.
• The fibrous structure has good rigidity and flexibility. It is characterized by the preservation of the form in "memory".
• The fibers are bound by synthetic components. This prevents tearing and loss of shape. Usually, phenol-formaldehyde resins are used as such components. It contributes to the connection of the fibers, which achieves the achievement of a carpet of the required thickness. To give the material water-repellent properties, it is treated with mineral oil.
• High density does not allow even slight deformation of the material.
• According to the thickness of the thermal insulation layer, stone wool is divided into soft, semi-rigid and hard types. They have letter designation which can be read on the packaging.
• In addition, stone wool has good performance sound isolation.

The thermal conductivity of stone wool ranges from 0.032-0.048 W / mK. This is best performance heat retention properties similar to Styrofoam and rubber foam.

Popular brands of stone wool

Currently, a large number of manufacturers are engaged in the production of stone wool. All them within this small review It is impossible to enumerate, but it is necessary to dwell on the top three in more detail without fail.

rockwoo. This manufacturer occupies a leading position in the popularity rating. With the help of this insulation, facades are finished to limit heat loss and combat noise. You can also insulate the floor, frame walls, roof. The release form is mats, plates and cylinders. The material is produced in various series. There is cached insulation using aluminum foil and stainless steel wire. There are over 10 episodes in total. The cost of the material is very different and depends on the thickness and on what it is intended for. The price qualification starts from about 1000 rubles.

Stone wool Rockwool

TechnoNIKOL . The basis for its manufacture is basalt rocks. They insulate the roof, facades, exterior and interior elements of the building. In addition, insulation floors. The price is determined by the thickness, dimensions and purpose. It costs a little less than the previous version.

Stone wool produced by TechnoNIKOL

Paroc. This type insulation is made in Finland. It has a very wide area of ​​application. The form of release are plates and mats. The cost of the material is different, depending on the size and purpose, but close to the previous version.

All such products are subject to mandatory certification. Therefore, in order to avoid fakes, it is necessary to purchase material only at trusted outlets, while it is imperative to require the seller to present a certificate for the products.

How to carry out external wall insulation with stone wool on your own?

To independently carry out the insulation of the facade with the help of this heater, you will need to perform a number of specific actions. First you need to prepare the necessary tools:

• Scraper, metal brush, rubber brush. They will be required to prepare the surface of the walls.
• Roulette, level, drill, fastening material for mounting the frame on the facade of the house.

Before insulation, everything superfluous is removed from the wall surface. We are talking about foreign objects, pieces of reinforcement, nails and other elements.

Preparation of walls and frame for insulation on the facade of the house

This is necessary to avoid damage to the insulation. If this happens, condensation will form. As a result, metal structural elements will be subject to corrosion processes. If there is mold on the surface, then it is removed.

Before sticking the insulation, the wall is primed. This will improve the adhesion. Sometimes a crate is made of metal. You can attach it with dowels. Insulation is placed between the crate and the surface. When gluing, use the adhesive that is intended for mineral wool or glass wool. Lubricate both sides of the surface of the insulation with glue. Inner side is glued to the wall, and a building reinforcing mesh is fixed from the outside.

• It is necessary to provide protection against rodents. For this purpose, a metal cornice is laid down the wall. This achieves another positive point. The insulation will lie more evenly.
• The back side of the insulation is lubricated with polymer glue. With it, the material is fixed to the wall. You can strengthen the fixation with plastic dowels. During installation, it is necessary to ensure that there are no gaps between the plates.
• If there are irregularities on the surface after installation, they are eliminated with a sanding brush.
• Then a windproof film is applied and several layers of primer are applied.

If the insulation is carried out in a similar way, then in addition you can get several nice bonuses:

• The wall is strengthened, protected from excessive wind loads.
• If thermal insulation is carried out from the outside, then you can save internal space.
• Using stone wool for exterior walls, you can change the design of the facade, add a few unusual solutions in design.

Insulation with stone wool from the inside

In cases where it is impossible to carry out the insulation of the facade, the room is thermally insulated from the inside. In this case, a profile made of wood or metal is necessarily used. The insulation structure will also consist of stone wool, putty and drywall.

All work is carried out in several stages:

• The crate is installed on the wall.
• Insulation is laid in the space formed by the wall and the crate.
• Performing finishing works.

Using wooden slats for stone wool partitions, they are pre-varnished. This will provide protection from adverse factors. external environment.

Wooden crate for partition walls with insulation

If metal guides are used, then their installation is carried out in such a way that the recesses look into left side. This is necessary for greater reliability of fixing the insulation. For creating air gap a gap of 20 mm is left between the material and the wall. This can be achieved if the adhesive is applied to the surface in a dotted manner.

Metal crate for insulation

It is easy to see that such work is not associated with any particular complexity. The main thing is that the implementation of all stages be accurate and consistent. In this case, you will not have to regret the expended forces and means. The home will be warm, cozy and comfortable.

After the installation of the insulation structure is completed, vapor barrier is performed. Double sided tape is used to fix it. At the final stage, finishing is performed. Most often, drywall is used for this purpose. Then it should be patched. In this case, a framing mesh is used. After grouting, eliminating irregularities, you can proceed to the decorative finish.

Eventually

The use of stone wool as a heater allows you to solve many problems at once, the main of which is the preservation of heat in the house.