What is pink insulation? Our helpful article will explain what it is exactly. Pink insulation is a common sight in many homes and recognisable due to its distinctive colour, commonly seen in America, Australia, and Asia. The pink colour of the insulation was used as a marketing strategy by Owens Corning in the 1950s to differentiate their product from other insulation materials, and a successful strategy at that. There is much confusion when it comes to pink insulation in regard to what exactly it is, and how it can be purchased in the UK. Here we will explore pink insulation, what it is, and where it can be found.
Pink Insulation
Pink insulation is a form of fibreglass insulation, also known as glass wool insulation. It is generally used within commercial and residential buildings and installed within the buildings thermal envelope to minimise heat loss and noise levels. Fibreglass insulation is not just pink, it is also recognised by its pale brown or yellow tones, commonly manufactured in rolls and slabs of wool and tightly packaged. The material is made up of melted glass extruded into thin strands which are then woven into a mat to form rolls or slabs. The material when complete is lightweight, flexible, and effective at trapping air and reducing rates of heat transfer.
Although commonly known as pinks insulation, this fibreglass insulation material when purchased within the UK is pale brown or yellow in colour. The fibreglass insulation that is pink in colour is found in other countries including America, Canada, and China. The same also applies to pink insulation foam, which is the UK is commonly white or cream in colour but can sometimes be found in a pink and blue shades of foam board.
Fibreglass rolls are available in thicknesses between 50mm and 220mm with a thermal conductivity rating between 0.034W/mK and 0.043W/mK. Glass wool rolls are often partially cut to minimise cutting requirements.
Fibreglass slabs are available in thickness between 50mm and 150mm with thermal conductivities between 0.032W/mK and 0.037W/mK. Glass wool slabs can be cut using a sharp blade or fine-toothed saw.
Pink or glass Roll and Batt insulation materials are generally friction fitted between metal and timber frame studs, rafters, and joists, without the need to add fixings or adhesives within the walls, ceilings, and loft spaces. Fibreglass and glass wool can be purchased in a range of colours inclusive of pink and yellow and so on, however the insulation colour can change over time due to air carrying dust and moisture and slowly passing through the insulation.
Benefits of fibreglass insulation
- Energy Efficiency: These insulation materials are made up of recycled glass. They are highly sustainable and can be reused or recycled.
- Thermal Insulation: Glass insulation prevents the hot air from affecting the temperature of your property in the summer and prevents hot air from escaping the property and impacting climate change in the winter.
- Acoustic Properties: Fibreglass will reduce noise levels from travelling between rooms and floors, creating a more comfortable living or working space.
- Energy Savings: The control of heat levels will help to save money on heating and cooling bills over time.
- Durability: Overtime the fibreglass will not settle and will last the entire lifespan of the building.
- Moisture Resistant: Fibreglass will not provide ideal living conditions for mold, reducing the risk of condensation and damp affecting or potentially damaging the property.
- Installation Process: The slabs and rolls are lightweight and easy to cut and install. They can also be installed within a variety of applications methods.
- Fire Resistance: Glass materials are naturally non-combustible, adding an element of fire safety to the building.
Pink insulation or glass wool offers a wide range of benefits, making it a popular and practical product worldwide, enhancing energy efficiency, comfort, and overall safety. A well-insulated property will be reflected in the cool summer and hot winter days as well as the lower monthly energy bills. Within the UK Pink insulation is referred to as Fibreglass insulation or Glass Wool Insulation.
FAQs
Most homes today do not contain asbestos and insulation materials are not manufactured containing asbestos. Pink insulation is typically made of fibreglass and does not contain asbestos. If you have concerns about older insulation materials within your property, particularly if your house was built before 1980, we recommend the insulation is professionally tested by either asbestos testing services or asbestos self-sampling kits.
Exposed pink insulation can be dangerous when fluffing out the insulation and leaving the insulation exposed. When fluffing out insulation, particles can be released into the air. Breathing in and inhaling fibreglass particles can trigger reactions that result in severe coughing or nose bleeds and aggravating existing conditions such as asthma. Fibreglass or pink insulation can also irritate the skin and the eyes.
To use pink insulation or fibreglass materials safely, protective clothing should be used at all times, such as goggles to prevent fibres getting into the eyes, a face mask to protect the airways and respiratory system, and long-sleeved clothing, trousers, and gloves to avoid itching, irritation, and rashes forming on the skin.
Pink insulation is known as fibreglass insulation, and it comes in a range of colours including yellow and pale brown, dependent on the manufacturer. Fibreglass often comes in the form of rolls, batts, or slabs. Pink insulation is also known as glass wool insulation.
The colour of insulation materials does not equal better or worse performance than another colour. Whether the insulation should be pink, white, brown, cream, yellow, or blue, the colour will not influence quality or reliability, this will be reflected in the materials specifications and certifications.
Pink Insulation Equivalent products
Looking to buy pink insulation? Alternatives to pink insulation and pink loft insulation materials found in the UK include:
