Basalt insulation: types, characteristics, size, price, photo, video, thermal conductivity

In the modern market of construction and finishing materials, competition has become more than fierce. And this is also true for the segment of foamed sheet polymers. Taking into account the fact that basalt slabs have every chance of becoming a leader in their class, many are now interested in everything they need to know about the properties, performance indicators and scope of application of the panels. It is worth noting that this popularity is primarily due to the unique characteristics of mineral fiber insulation.

What it is?

Initially, it should be noted that the type of insulation under consideration is as close as possible to mineral wool in its properties. This largely determines its prevalence in Russia. To understand what exactly basalt slabs are, it is worth paying attention to their main advantages and disadvantages. The list of obvious and most significant advantages includes several characteristics.

• Reduced thermal conductivity coefficient due to the fibrous structure. Thus, a 10-centimeter slab in terms of thermal efficiency is comparable to thermal insulators whose thickness is up to 30 cm.
• High noise absorption, which, along with the previous property, contributes to the creation of the most comfortable microclimate indoors, the walls and other structural elements of which are finished with the insulation in question.
• Increased resistance to aggressive chemical environments. We are talking, in particular, about acids, alkalis and technical oils. Due to this characteristic, the slabs are widely used for insulating blast furnaces, various types of process equipment and pipelines.
• Fire resistance, allowing the material to be used under almost any operating conditions.
• Strength and long service life, which determine the ability of the insulation to maintain its shape for the longest possible period.
• High performance in terms of vapor permeability, which directly depends on compliance with the installation technology of sheet heat insulation. When installed correctly, excess moisture is removed outside the room with extreme efficiency.
• Resistance to biologically active environments. For example, we can talk about damage caused by insects and/or rodents.
• The process of installing slabs is as simplified as possible. The entire complex of work can be completed almost alone, which in itself significantly reduces financial costs.

Naturally, there are certain disadvantages. First of all, we are talking about the need for strict adherence to the rules provided for by technology. The durability of the insulation and its performance indicators directly depend on this.

Often, over time, gaps can form between individual insulation panels. As a result, the sound and, most importantly, thermal insulation of the room is significantly deteriorated.

Nuances of the technological process, main varieties

The basis of the production process is the production of basalt melt from rocks, for which melting furnaces are used, and its flow through special equipment. The result is fibers of different diameters. It is this parameter that determines the future thermal insulation characteristics of the material and the stability of its geometric dimensions. Basalt fiber comes in different types (micro-thin, ultra-thin, thin, thickened, thick and coarse), but only two types are suitable for making insulation:

• superfine fiber material;
• thermal insulation based on thin fibers.

Production is carried out at high temperatures (1500-1600 degrees, which is determined by the technology used). One method involves initially drawing fibers from the melt, the diameter of which is 250-350 microns. They are then inflated to become super thin using gas blasting at high flow rates. The temperature at this stage should be above 1600 degrees. The other method is not universal. It involves blowing the basalt melt using compressed air. The minimum temperature limit is 1500 degrees.

About the characteristics of stone wool

Thermal conductivity - low

The fibers in basalt insulation do not have a strict orientation, but are located very chaotically, so the structure of the substance is airy. Countless layers of air between thin stone fibers are an excellent heat insulator. Therefore, the thermal conductivity coefficient of this material is very small - its value ranges from 0.032 to 0.048 watts per meter per Kelvin. This corresponds to the level of cork, foam rubber and expanded polystyrene, both extruded and ordinary.

Let's try to compare the technical characteristics of basalt thermal insulation and other materials. Let's take, for example, a 10 cm mat made of basalt insulation, the density of which is 100 kilograms per cubic meter. In order for the heat preservation effect to be similar, you need to build a ceramic brick wall 117 centimeters thick. If the brick is made of clay, then the wall should be even thicker - 160 centimeters. A two-meter wall will have to be laid out of sand-lime brick, and the layer of wood must be at least 25.5 centimeters.

Moisture absorption – almost zero

This material has the property of hydrophobicity. Water falling on it cannot penetrate inside, due to which the thermal insulation properties do not change. But if you conduct a similar experiment with ordinary mineral wool, it will absorb a fair amount of water. Wet cotton wool will not retain heat - after all, water entering its pores significantly increases the thermal conductivity of the material. So if you need to insulate a damp room, for example, a sauna, then take basalt wool rather than ordinary glass wool - you can’t go wrong. Water absorption by volume is no more than 2%.

Water does not impregnate, but flows around the fibers of basalt wool, since during the production process it is impregnated with special oils.

The ability to pass steam is excellent

Basalt fiber, regardless of its density, has excellent vapor permeability. The moisture contained in the air easily penetrates the insulation layer without forming condensation inside it. This is especially important for a bath or sauna. The basalt wool itself does not get wet, still reliably storing heat. Therefore, living in rooms insulated with this material is comfortable - the temperature and humidity conditions are optimal. Vapor permeability is about 0.3 mg/(m h Pa)

Fire resistance – high

In accordance with the requirements set by firefighters, wool made from basalt fibers is considered a non-flammable substance. But that's not all - it can block the path of open fire. The maximum temperature that basalt insulation can withstand without reaching the melting point is 1114 0C. This allows it to be used for insulating devices operating at high temperatures.

If we consider the fire safety performance of this heat insulator (determined according to NPB 244-97), then stone wool is classified as a non-combustible material (NG group). This is how it is defined by GOST 30244 and SNiP 21-01-97. Thus, there are no prohibitions when using this insulation. Any buildings, structures, structures and structural elements can be insulated with this material.

Sound barrier – at a high level

As for the acoustic properties, basalt wool also has good ones - in the sense of sound insulation, of course. This insulation is capable of muffling vertical sound waves traveling inside the walls. Thanks to this, the room is well isolated from external noise. By absorbing sound waves, stone wool reduces the reverberation time, which protects from noise not only the room whose walls are insulated with this material, but also neighboring rooms.

Material strength

Basalt fibers inside the material are arranged randomly, and some of them run in the vertical direction. Thanks to this, even not very dense stone wool can withstand considerable loads. Thus, at 10% deformation, basalt wool has compressive strength limits from 5 to 80 kilopascals.

The specific value of this indicator depends on the density inherent in a given grade of material. Such strength characteristics of basalt wool guarantee that the heat insulator will serve for a long time without changing its shape and size over the entire period of use.

Basalt wool fibers.

Biological and chemical activity – low

Stone wool is chemically passive - this is its undoubted advantage. If you lay it close to a metal surface, then you can be one hundred percent sure that rust will not appear on the metal. And basalt insulation treats aggressive biological environments completely calmly. It is not characterized by either rotting or damage by mold and other harmful microorganisms.

It withstands the invasion of rats and mice into the house - after all, these rodents cannot handle stone wool. High resistance to aggressive substances allows this insulation to be used for insulating many technical structures that operate in difficult conditions.

Safety is ok

Stone wool is made from natural raw materials – the mineral basalt. Its fibers are bonded using formaldehyde resin. It gives the material the necessary strength characteristics and also makes it more dense. Although they say that phenol is dangerous, but not in this case. After all, it cannot be released from basalt wool, since it is completely neutralized during the production of the material. However, even at the manufacturing stage of this mineral insulation, phenolic fumes are extremely small - much less than the permissible limit of 0.05 milligrams per m2/hour.

Unlike glass wool fibers, basalt fibers do not irritate the skin, do not prick and do not cause allergies. Today on the construction market there are a large number of brands of stone wool of various densities, the technical characteristics of which are slightly different from each other. But all types of basalt insulation are distinguished by strength and long service life.

Specifications

The material has the following features:

• Non-flammability. Withstands up to 1000°C and exposure to open fire. It consists of volcanic rocks, so this feature is easily explained. The product retains heat well and insulates heated air. This function is widely used for insulating pipes through which hot water or other high-temperature compounds pass.
• Hydrophobicity. The material can be used indoors. Where the humidity level is high. One of the properties of cotton wool is to repel water. Basalt wool insulation is installed in swimming pools and bathhouses. Basalt wool is slightly harmful to health, or harmless at all. It is worth taking this into account when insulating residential premises.
• Vapor permeability. The characteristic explains the ability of the material to pass air flows. Moist steam passes through the basalt, creating a positive microclimate in the insulated rooms.
• Soundproofing. Sound waves are delayed by the volcanic rocks contained in the structure. The composition can be used not only as insulation, but also as a soundproofing material.
• Strength. The fibers are arranged randomly, which is why cotton wool has high strength. Even after exposure to heavy loads, it is possible to restore the original shape.

Comparative table of characteristics of insulation materials

Stone wool can withstand many types of chemical and biological influences. Mold and mildew do not form on the surface, and infection does not spread. It will not react with nearby compounds. Basalite, whose technical characteristics are very high, is considered one of the best insulation materials.

Basalt insulation: sizes and price

Depending on the manufacturer and purpose, basalt material may have different characteristics:

The average cost of basalt insulation ranges from 450 rubles/0.3 m3, rolled material costs 150 rubles/kg. To insulate the roof with stone wool you will have to pay 1,700 rubles/m3. If formaldehyde resins are not used in the production process, the cost of the material will increase to 1300 rubles/m3, and foil material will cost 300 rubles/m2.

Which basalt insulation is better: rating

According to the opinion of domestic consumers, the top three leaders in the production and sale of mineral insulation are as follows:

1. Rockwool
2. Isoroc
3. TechnoNIKOL

Despite the very conditional leadership of one or another manufacturer, the performance characteristics of insulation differ little from each other, therefore one of the most basic criteria when choosing mineral insulation is its cost.

You should also pay attention to the thickness of the material, since the correct choice will allow you to get by with one layer of thermal insulation, which will significantly reduce the time it takes to complete the work.

Ecowool or basalt insulation, which is better: comparative characteristics

Before making a decision, it is necessary to carefully study the features of a particular heat insulator. For clarity, here is a comparative description of ecowool and basalt insulation:

Next, you should take into account the labor intensity of the work, which is significantly higher when using ecowool. The cost of 1 m3 is approximately the same and ranges from 1300 to 1700 rubles.

Conclusion:

in the event that adherence to the base is of fundamental importance, ecowool should be used; in all other cases, it is more advisable to use basalt insulation boards.

Installation of basalt insulation

Although there are no fundamental differences in the process of cladding with basalt slabs when insulating walls, roofs, floors or facades, there are still some subtleties that should be paid attention to.

Roof insulation

Due to the difference in day and night temperatures, condensation may form on the surface of the roofing material, so thermal insulation of the roof should be carried out in the following order:

1. A vapor barrier made of polyethylene film 0.5 - 0.8 mm thick is laid on the horizontal lathing, the joints are sealed using adhesive tape or special tape;
2. Basalt slabs with a thickness of 180 to 200 mm are placed tightly between the guides;
3. A windproof membrane is laid;
4. Ventilation is ensured with the help of additional sheathing;
5. Roofing material is being laid.

Insulation of floor and ceiling

In addition to thermal insulation, the use of basalt slabs on the floor and ceiling significantly increases sound insulation in the room. The work is carried out in several stages:

1. A vapor barrier made of polyethylene is attached to the ceilings;
2. The sheathing is installed;
3. Thermal insulation material is tightly packed into the cells;
4. Subfloors are laid from moisture-resistant material (plywood, OSB, etc.);
5. Further work is carried out in accordance with the selected option for flooring or ceiling finishing.

Wall insulation

For high-quality insulation of walls from the inside with basalt insulation, you need:

1. Clean the walls from crumbling plaster and other contaminants;
2. Seal cracks, having previously expanded them;
3. Carefully prime the wall with deep penetration soil;
4. Mount a vertical frame with a pitch of 58-59 cm to ensure dense laying of basalt slabs;
5. Lay the insulation into the cells of the frame, avoiding the slightest gaps and cracks;
6. Attach drywall using the same frame as for laying basalt insulation.

Facade insulation

Insulation of the facade is carried out as follows:

1. A frame is attached to the wall, the pitch of which should be calculated based on the size of the basalt slabs and the features of the finishing (lining, siding, etc.);
2. Insulation boards are laid between the sheathing guides and secured using appropriate hardware. During installation, a small ventilation gap should be provided between the outer plane of the slab and the plane of the frame;
3. A windproof membrane is installed;
4. The final cladding of the facade is being carried out.

Compliance with these rules will not only minimize heat loss, but also ensure a comfortable microclimate and sufficient sound insulation in the house.

High-quality insulation of facades with mineral wool video

The ease of installation, low thermal conductivity, moisture resistance and vapor permeability of basalt slabs have ensured their widest popularity. Environmental safety, inertness to aggressive compounds, and the ability to withstand open fire and high temperatures make it possible to use basalt insulation for insulating not only buildings and structures, but also especially critical main pipelines.

Manufacturers from different countries, offers from companies in Russia and beyond

At the preliminary stage of construction or renovation, many owners of private houses, summer cottages, baths, saunas and other premises, as well as performers of the work, are wondering - which brand of basalt insulation is better ? Given the diversity that exists on the building materials market, choosing the optimal option can become a serious problem for an inexperienced consumer in the relevant field .

TechnoNIKOL stone wool for flooring 8 slabs 1200x600x30 mm. Photo by Leroy Merlin

Information about production features is not always available, so you have to rely on widely available information , the appearance of the insulation and reviews. But there is an alternative solution; it is necessary to compare basalt wool from different manufacturers. Customers are provided with a wide selection of products , but there are not many large enterprises with a good reputation that produce high-quality insulation materials. Some brands and manufacturers that are of increased interest to Internet users are presented below.

Isover

The Isover trademark belongs to the international industrial group of companies Saint-Gobain , whose headquarters are located in Paris. The Group of Companies has representative offices in many countries. Saint-Gobain specializes in the development, production and sale of high-quality materials and effective solutions for creating comfortable living spaces. Successfully operates in three sectors:

• innovative materials;
• construction products manufactured under several brands, in particular insulation materials are produced under the brands Isover, Isoroc, Isotec;
• distribution of building materials.

The company produces mineral wool insulation based on quartz and basalt . Stone wool is produced in factories in Germany, Spain, France, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Romania. In 2011, the company acquired a plant for the production of basalt insulation in Chelyabinsk. And just two years later, Isover stone wool appeared on the Russian market, meeting all modern requirements and quality standards . This was preceded by hard work aimed at modernizing production facilities, attracting qualified foreign and Russian colleagues, interacting with research laboratories and carrying out work based on customer feedback.

Isover stone wool is a reliable material that provides a high level of thermal protection for at least 50 years. The special fiber structure provides floor and wall insulation with excellent acoustic characteristics, which significantly reduces the noise level in the room. Insulation materials meet all basic requirements, they are durable and safe for humans and the environment. These properties have been confirmed by Russian research institutes. Thermal insulation materials are produced in accordance with the European standard EN 13162 and the international standard ISO 9011 .

Under the Isover brand, a wide range of heat and sound insulation materials are sold for all types of buildings and structures. Basalt materials cover all structures requiring insulation and insulation. It is possible to opt for a universal option or purchase products designed specifically for each individual design. The range includes solutions for private and professional construction .

Products for apartments and houses are intended for insulation of the entire house, frame walls, roofs, partitions, ceilings, floors, balconies, facades, siding. The slabs vary in thickness (from 25 to 1150 mm) and heat retention class. Professionals are provided with materials for insulating roofs, frame walls, partitions and ceilings, facades and floors. It is possible to include stone wool for sound insulation labeled “Acoustic” into a separate category.

The manufacturer's Russian-language website makes it easy to choose the best option for basalt wool by correctly selecting the required purpose, scope of application, shape, type of material, load on the insulation, heat retention class and thickness of the products.

IZOVOL

The production of IZOVOL brand products was carried out by the Belgorod Stone Wool Plant . In 2022, TECHNONICOL acquired 100% of the shares of the joint stock company ZNOiM, part of the IZOVOL group of companies. A year later, the integration of the Belgorod plant into the structure of the TECHNONICOL corporation was completed. Modernization and automation of production and logical processes made it possible to increase labor productivity by 17%. In 2019, the product range included materials for shipbuilding and new types of professional insulation for construction needs. Products are supplied to various regions of the country and abroad .

The production of high-quality basalt wool is carried out using a unique melting device , which completely eliminates the formation of slag and ensures maximum melt quality. As a result, the brand’s products are distinguished by high physical, mechanical and consumer characteristics, optimal thermal conductivity, durability, reliability and safety for humans and the environment.

The manufacturer also notes the resistance of the insulation to the effects of bending and rodents. The company's product range includes several lines of stone wool:

• IZOVOL ST , products vary in density, indicators range from 50 to 90 kg/cub.m., used for floors, partitions and sloping roofs.
• IZOVOL B , designed for insulation of ventilated facades, has a protective layer that prevents stone wool from being blown out.
• IZOVOL F , designed for thermal insulation of plaster facades, has high density and strength, water absorption does not exceed 1%.
• IZOVOL K , used for insulating flat roofs, is produced in sheets with an almost square shape, which allows you to quickly insulate large areas.
• IZOVOL KV , used for insulation of single- and two-layer roofing systems, is characterized by increased rigidity and moisture resistance.
• IZOVOL L and IZOBEL L , more universal products, are used for partitions, floors, attic spaces, attic floors.
• IZOVOL LIGHT IZOBEL LIGHT is used as a non-load-bearing heat and sound insulation layer in pitched roofs, ceilings and partitions, floors, attics and attics.

KNAUF

The top lines in the ratings of the best manufacturers of mineral wool insulation are occupied by KNAUF products. The company was founded by the Knauf brothers in 1932 . Initially, the company specialized in the production of plaster mixtures from gypsum, and later construction gypsum mixtures. In 1958, plasterboard production opened. Since the 1970s, ready-made structural parts and construction chemicals have appeared in the assortment. The subsequent stages of development included the production of high-quality insulation from glass and basalt fiber, foamed polystyrene. The company came to Russia in 1993.

Insulation TeploKnauf Wall 50 mm, 6 sq.m. Photo by Leroy Merlin

Now the transnational company includes more than 200 factories located in Asia, Europe, North and South America. For potential clients, it is important to note that the Russian market mainly presents fiberglass-based products. Stone wool is quite difficult to find; you need to contact either the manufacturer directly or the official partners of the German company.

KNAUF insulation products are highly resistant to evaporation, have a low thermal conductivity coefficient, effectively absorb sound, and are produced without the use of dyes or bleaches. Available in slabs and rolls . There are two categories of products:

• Knauf heat is a series of basalt and fiberglass materials used in private construction to insulate various building elements: walls, ceilings, roofs. There is an option TeploKNAUF Bath based on fiberglass.
• Knauf Insulation - materials intended for professional insulation are divided into several types for use on various structures.

Paroc

Paroc was founded in 1930 in Sweden . In 1950, the production of stone wool was opened in Finland, and in Sweden the production of technical insulation and cylinders was launched. Since 1970, packaging has acquired the familiar white color with red stripes . In 1980, sandwich panels appeared in the product range, and products began to be produced under the Paroc brand. 1990-2000s the company actively expands to European and Baltic countries . Today, the enterprise has production facilities in Finland, Sweden, Poland, and Lithuania. The head office is located in the Finnish city of Vanta.

The company produces and sells energy-efficient thermal insulation solutions made from stone wool. The highest quality of basalt fiber provides a unique combination of advantages of finished products : mechanical strength, fire safety, moisture resistance, processability, sound insulation, chemical resistance, environmental properties, elasticity, dynamic elasticity. Customers are provided with insulation in the form of plates, rolls, cylinders, bends, lamellas and lamella mats .

The entire list of materials can be divided into products for construction and technical insulation. The first category includes several groups of products: general building thermal insulation and thermal insulation for walls, plaster facades, sandwich panels, flat roofs, foundations and floors on the ground, insulation and fire protection of ceilings and floors, fire-resistant building insulation, soundproof building insulation. The second group includes technical bends and segments, cylinders, lamella, piercing and OBK mats, mats for OBK and industry, plates, HVAC and OEM plates. Each line has individual characteristics and is designed to implement specific tasks.

ROCKWOOL: Sauna Butts 1000x600x100 mm. and other offers

ROCKWOOL Group (ROCKWOOL) is an international group of companies, the structure of which includes several divisions : ROCKWOOL; Rockfon; Grodan; Lapinus; Rockpanel; Rockdelta; BuildDesk. The division of the same name is a manufacturer of a wide range of solutions based on basalt wool. The company was founded in 1909 in Denmark , the central office is located in the city of Hedehusen. The production of thermal insulation was launched in 1937.

The next four decades saw the expansion of production in Europe and North America . The 1990s were marked by active expansion in the East, the company acquired and modernized factories in Eastern and Central Europe, and increased its zones of influence in Asia. In 1999, the first Russian plant , located in Balashikha, began production. Between 2006 and 2012, three more factories opened . Thus, today the number of production sites located on different continents exceeds 40.

ROCKWOOL is a manufacturer and supplier of comprehensive solutions for heat and sound insulation, fire protection of all types of buildings and structures, in shipbuilding and for industrial equipment. It's that simple. In more detail, clients are provided with materials for:

• fire protection;
• marine and industrial insulation;
• private housing construction, with the help of which it is possible to heat and sound insulate baths and saunas, fireplaces, attics and attics, ceilings, walls, in particular frame walls, the insulation of which can be carried out from the street or indoors, floors;

Reference. Of particular interest is cotton wool Sauna Butts 1000x600x100 mm, designed for insulation of baths and saunas, specially designed for walls and ceilings of steam rooms. Provides heat and vapor barrier (aluminum foil is located on one side of the sheets). They retain heat, which allows you to save on wood and electricity.

• soundproofing;
• roofs;
• facades.

The company offers basalt insulation with middle density indicators; the most chaotic arrangement of fibers ensures high strength. The service life is at least 50 years, during which the wool does not lose its characteristics. The manufacturer notes the following advantages of the product:

• Non-flammability. Insulation materials do not burn, prevent the spread of fire, withstand temperatures up to 1000 degrees, and do not emit heat or smoke in the event of a fire.
• Thermal insulation. Insulation materials allow you to achieve optimal temperature in a room, increase its energy efficiency, and reduce utility costs.
• Soundproofing. Many insulation options absorb, some are more effective, since they are designed specifically for sound insulation.
• Water resistance. Prevents water penetration.
• Environmentally friendly. The materials are easily dismantled and recycled. Basalt wool can be converted into a similar material again and again.

URSA

Despite the interest of Internet users in URSA stone wool, the company does not offer these products, but sells the following categories of thermal insulation materials:

• URSA GEO - fiberglass-based insulation, produced taking into account high environmental requirements;
• URSA TERRA - non-flammable mineral insulation, intended for private housing construction, meets professional standards;
• URSA PUREONE - new generation non-flammable mineral insulation;
• URSA XPS - high quality extruded polystyrene foam materials;
• URSA SECO - modern high-quality membranes and films for vapor and waterproofing, wind protection of walls, ceilings and roofs.

Beltep

The production of thermal insulation of the Beltep brand is carried out by OJSC Gomelstroymaterialy (Republic of Belarus) . The company is one of the largest manufacturers of a wide range of building materials. The main goal of the enterprise is to produce only high-quality products . Beltep stone wool guarantees environmental friendliness, fire safety, energy efficiency, acoustic comfort, manufacturability, and the best price-quality ratio.

The main advantages of stone wool are vapor permeability, non-hygroscopicity, resistance to deformation, low shrinkage, different densities, and affordable price. Using Beltep stone wool, it is possible to effectively insulate various elements of buildings and structures:

• walls, ceilings, floors and partitions;
• frame buildings;
• ventilated and plaster facades;
• flat and pitched roofs.

The range also includes universal materials designed for insulating various structural elements. The products are produced in slabs, the density of which varies from 35 to 190 kg/cub.m., and thickness from 30 to 200 mm.

Euroizol

Basalt insulation of the Euroizol brand is produced in Ulyanovsk . The production of products is carried out by a company of the same name, created on the basis of the Ulyanovsk plant of thermal insulation products, known on the market since 1957. A new milestone in the history of the enterprise began in 2004. Then, together with specialists from the TERMO plant (Slovenia), the automated Heraclith line was launched . Equipping its facilities with innovative equipment allowed the company to become a major manufacturer and supplier of thermal insulation materials with a wide range of applications.

Euroizol products are distinguished by consistently high quality, low water absorption, non-flammability, resistance to deformation, good sound insulation, chemical and biological resistance. The use of unique AeroDraive technologies makes it possible to improve the basic properties of materials.

Euroizol stone wool is used for insulation in private housing construction and in the construction of civil and industrial facilities . It is used for insulation of pitched and flat roofs, floors along joists and under screed, ventilated and plaster facades, partitions, as a filler for sandwich panels, for sound insulation. Available in slabs of various thicknesses (30-200 mm) and densities (25-200 kg/cub.m.).

IZBA

The production of mineral thermal insulation is carried out by the Bogdanovichi Mineral Wool Plates Plant (BZMP). The enterprise is equipped with modern high-tech Italian equipment . The manufacturer notes the following advantages of IZBA slabs: non-flammability, non-hygroscopicity, resistance to mechanical stress, high heat and sound insulation, long service life.

Insulation Izba Light Super 50 mm., 4.8 sq.m. Photo by Leroy Merlin

Products are manufactured on the basis of gabbro-basalt rocks with the addition of a synthetic binder. This composition provides several more important characteristics : low water absorption, biostability, and environmental friendliness.

IZBA slabs are intended for use as a heat and/or sound insulating layer in three-layer and frame walls, partitions, interfloor, basement and attic floors, plaster and ventilated facades, soft flat, pitched and flat roofs with a polymer membrane. The company offers several product lines:

• IZBA Super Light;
• IZBA Light;
• IZBA Standard;
• HUT Venti;
• IZBA Facade;
• IZBA Roof;
• IZBA Roof Top;
• IZBA Roof Bottom;
• IZBA Sandwich;
• Minslab, GOST-9573-2012, four varieties : soft slabs marked “PM”, semi-rigid - “PP”, hard - “PZh” and increased rigidity - “PPZh”.

ISOROC

ISOROC (ISOROC) is a trademark under which mineral wool thermal insulation is produced, owned by CJSC ISOROC, created in 2000, a Russian company with 100 percent foreign capital . In 2016, the company became part of the Saint-Gobain concern. Integration into the structure of a global industry leader opened up new markets for the company and the opportunity to expand its product line. Today the company produces materials of European quality that are in demand in the domestic market.

ISOROC stone wool Super Warm. Teplostroy Photos

The products have low thermal conductivity, high fire resistance, deformation and tear strength, hydrophobicity, sound insulation ability, good vapor permeability, and environmental friendliness. The consumer has several options for building insulation to choose from:

• heat-resistant boards marked “Thermal Protection” for insulating stoves, fireplaces and surfaces near this equipment;
• “Super” slabs - a line of products in slabs and rolls;
• rulers marked “P” and “PP” are intended for three-layer wall structures, frame structures, partitions and pitched roofs;
• “Izolight” and “Ultralight” - lines of materials for a wide range of tasks;
• "Isophas" - a line of products for walls under plaster;
• "Izoruf" - a series of insulating materials in slabs for interfloor ceilings and roofing of buildings;
• "Isovent" - slabs for three-layer and frame walls, ventilated facades, interfloor ceilings, pitched roofs.

Nazarovo

Nazarovo Plant of Thermal Insulation Products and Structures (Nazarovo Plant TIiK) specializes in the production of one of the most effective materials for heat and sound insulation - products based on stone wool. The production process is highly technological, as it is carried out in accordance with the project (Sweden) . This ensures high quality and compliance with stringent international requirements , which are significantly higher than Russian state standards. As a result, the finished products surpass in their characteristics not only domestic analogues, but also materials from global enterprises.

The products of the Nazarovsky plant are divided into four categories:

1) Thermal insulation boards. Used to insulate a wide range of building structures. They are made from basalt energy wool with the addition of synthetic binders with water-repellent additives.

2) Two types of mats: thermal insulation and basalt pierced energy mats with one-, two- or all-sided lining. Refers to the type of non-combustible materials. Used for insulating power equipment.

3) Two types of cords: thermal insulation and basalt energy . Designed for insulation of equipment and pipelines with surface temperatures from -120 to +700 degrees.

4) Heat-insulating energy cylinders . They are used for insulating pipelines with surface temperatures from -120 to +400 degrees. They have a longitudinal through cut, which makes installation and dismantling easier, and they can be reused.

Thermolife

The production of basalt wool under the Thermolife brand was carried out by a company of the same name from Ukraine. Based on publicly available information, it can be concluded that the company is no longer operating. However, it is possible to find Thermolife materials on sale.

Thermolife stone wool has thermal insulation, fire protection and hydrophobic properties, chemical resistance, environmental friendliness, and provides high quality installation and sound insulation.

Used for thermal insulation of internal structures: Light, EcoLight and Cavity; for facade thermal insulation: Facade, VentFasad, VentFasad V and VentFasad N; for roofing thermal insulation: Roofing; Roof B; Roof S and Roof H; for thermal insulation of floors: Pol and Pol-S; for sandwich panels: Sandwich C and Sandwich K; for technical thermal insulation: Techizol 50, 75, Techizol 100, 125 and Techizol 150.

TECHNONICOL: Rocklight and others

TECHNONICOL Corporation was founded in 1992 and is a leading manufacturer of effective and reliable solutions for construction. The structure of the enterprise includes a significant number of production sites equipped with modern equipment from leading European enterprises from Denmark, Germany, Italy, Slovenia, etc. A wide range of products . The corporation's research centers are conducting activities to develop new products . The corporation's representative offices ensure effective cooperation with clients from different countries. The corporation offers consumers a wide range of insulation materials, which can be divided into three classes:

Insulation TechnoNIKOL GreenGuard Universal 50 mm 8 plates 600x1200 mm. Photo by Leroy Merlin

TECHNONICOL - non-flammable materials based on basalt rocks, intended for heat and sound insulation of various structural elements: plaster and ventilated facades, pitched and flat roofs, walls, ceilings, floors. In demand in private and industrial construction. Of particular interest is Rocklight wool , which is intended for use as an insulating layer in pitched roofs. Available in slabs.

BAZALIT - hydrophobized, non-flammable basalt materials for heat and sound insulation of facades, roofs, partitions and ceilings, attics, attics, pipelines of various types, heating networks, as well as for use in sandwich panels. Available in slabs and mats.

GreenGuard. The development of this product has become a qualitative leap in the company’s activities. The revolutionary material is produced using GEOlife technology, which is based on the use of exclusively natural raw materials and natural binders. As a result, the main advantages are: service life is 100 years, odorless, recommended for use in kindergartens and schools, medical institutions, and residential buildings.

How does basalt wool differ from glass-based materials?

Each of the materials is insulation; they represent one group. Some consumers take into account the opportunity to save money when purchasing a suitable option. Is it worth replacing one analogue with another? And in what situations is comparison even acceptable?

• The biological and chemical parameters of basalt insulation remain passive, unlike glass-based analogues.
• Stone wool fibers are short in length and thick. During installation they will not crumble into small pieces.
• The thermal insulation of stone wool is also much better. The same cannot be said about the ability to absorb extraneous sounds. Such a shell will not help here.
• During operation, glass wool is characterized by a serious degree of shrinkage. The analogue, where the base is basalt, is characterized by a longer service life.
• Safety precautions are maintained when working with any type of materials. After all, both of them can cause irritation of the mucous membrane if these rules are ignored. The concentration of material particles in the air is also controlled separately to avoid negative effects on the body. Then the construction technology will remain safe.

Video description

Basalt wool or mineral wool: comparison of insulation.
Mineral wool is more convenient in this regard. Its fibers are relatively long, soft and durable. This material produces virtually no dust and is more environmentally friendly.

What these materials have in common is that they are both non-flammable. It is believed that these types of insulation are not susceptible to attacks by rodents or pests. If moisture penetrates inside, it will not lead to rotting or fungus formation. The thermal insulation properties of both materials are approximately the same.

Installation of roof insulation Source pulscen.ru

Features of the production of basalt insulation

For basalt insulation, the general specific name “mineral wool” is often used, under which glass wool and slag wool are also produced.

The differences between them lie, first of all, in the raw materials, which are different for each material.

Basalt, or stone, wool is made from molten gabbro-basalt rock, quartz is used to produce glass wool, and slag materials are made from waste from mining and metallurgical enterprises - blast furnace slag.

The basis of stone wool is thin basalt fibers, which can be arranged horizontally in the form of layers, vertically, structurally corrugated or randomly.

To obtain such thin fibers, basalt rock is melted at a temperature of more than 1500 °C and drawn on special drums to obtain thin threads no more than 7 microns thick and up to 50 mm long.

Based on the thickness of the fiber, basalt insulation materials receive a special marking: BTV - materials made from a thin thread, and BSTV - from an ultra-fine one.

To obtain a thermal insulation material, the fibers are glued together using arbolo-urea resins, which are safe for health and do not contain formaldehyde, after which the products are formed, which are produced industrially in the form of slabs, mats or cylinders.

It is important to take into account that types of products with equal thickness can have different densities, which determines such material parameters as weight, caking resistance and thermal conductivity.

Therefore, when choosing insulation, you should take this characteristic into account and use materials recommended for thermal insulation of specific structural elements.

Products made from basalt wool may also differ in the presence or absence of reinforcement and a foil layer.

Comparison with analogues

Photo: This thing will be quiet.
Many people confuse basalt wool with other mineral thermal insulation materials. The similarity lies in the fibrous base, and that’s basically where it ends. Each type of insulating wool has its own characteristics and characteristics that affect the area of ​​application. The difference between basalt wool and analogues lies in the use of different raw materials. The basalt slab is based on volcanic rock. During production, raw materials are crushed into small fractions and further heated to more than 1000 degrees Celsius. The material melts and becomes viscous, after which it is blown in a special air turbine to produce thin fibers. Another difference between basalt wool is that it is produced in slabs and rolls.

Areas and methods of using basalt wool

Stone wool insulation can be considered a universal thermal insulation material, the installation of which can be done either dry or wet.
In the first case, it is used as an insulating layer in ventilated curtain facades, in the construction of roofing pie, insulation of floors and floor slabs in private houses and public buildings, etc.

It is used for work both on the outside of buildings and indoors. Stone wool is also widely used when insulating buildings using wet facade technology, in which the surface is plastered to protect the insulation externally.

Due to the high fire resistance of the material, it is often used as an element of passive fire protection - as a fire cutter.

In civil engineering, including individual construction, stone wool is used to insulate horizontal and vertical, loaded and unloaded structures and building elements.

Widely used for frame and wooden construction due to the high fire safety of the material.

Most often, basalt wool insulation in residential construction is used for:

• devices for roofing flat roofs, as well as for insulating rafter structures;
• thermal insulation of interfloor ceilings and subfloor installations;
• as internal or external insulation of vertical and inclined surfaces that do not bear loads;
• thermal insulation and insulation of chimneys;
• for insulation of external walls of houses using “wet facade” technologies and installation of ventilated curtain systems;
• installation of fireplaces in the house;
• installation of heating and other heating equipment;
• for the production of sandwich panels used in frame construction, etc.

Products made from basalt wool can also be used to insulate internal walls and partitions, but in this case, their high sound insulation characteristics are mainly used, thanks to which it is possible to create comfortable conditions for living and working.

How is stone made soft and fluffy?

Let's reveal a secret: to turn a real stone into soft cotton wool, it is melted in an oven at a temperature of 1300-1500 degrees Celsius. Only at this temperature does basalt become liquid. It drips into a rapidly rotating large flywheel, or immediately seeps through micro-holes into the centrifuge - depending on what technology is used in production.

There, organic matter is added to the fibers formed from the droplets. Fibers under different pressures are formed into mats and slabs. This is how stone wool reaches its final microstructure and density:

In real life this process looks like this:

Interesting, isn't it?

How to find out the recommended thickness of the basalt layer

There is a formula by which you can find out the optimal thickness indicators. Then the thermal insulation will fully perform its functions and the funds will not be wasted. To begin with, you should find out the following indicators:

• R – thermal resistance. It is designated m2*K/W;
• λB – thermal conductivity of basalt wool (indicated on the packaging from the manufacturer). Let's choose average values ​​of 0.45 (W/m2 * K).

Index B indicates the possibility of using insulation for rooms with high humidity. R – thermal resistance (the properties of a material to prevent heat from passing through it. The higher this indicator, the better the heat is retained inside.

On average, for walls this coefficient is 3.3 m2*K/W, for a roof – 4.95 m2*K/W. Based on the formula (R* λB), you can calculate the thickness of the wool layer for wall insulation: 3.3 * 0.45 = 1.485 m = 14.85 cm. If we round, we get the optimal thickness of the basalt layer of 15 cm.

For the roof, the indicators are as follows: 4.95 * 0.45 = 2.2275 m. By rounding, you can get a thickness of 22.3 cm. Now that the thickness has been decided, you can insulate the facade with basalt slabs, the roof or walls from the inside.

"Disadvantages" of glass wool

• It is hygroscopic; fiberglass wool easily absorbs water. When moistened, it loses its thermal insulation properties and contributes to the creation of a humid environment, which can lead to destruction of the insulated surface and rotting. To avoid negative consequences and achieve increased thermal conductivity, 2 layers of vapor barrier are used for its installation: before laying the slabs and on top;
• inconvenient installation; the need to use special equipment: respirator, gloves, goggles, clothing. Glass wool fibers are fragile, they break, crumble, and when they come into contact with the skin, they cause burning and itching.
• short service life without changing the original characteristics, glass wool performs its functions for 8-10 years, after which it “shrinks” and loses its properties.

Photo 3. The disadvantage of glass wool is the need to use special protective clothing during installation

Advantages and disadvantages

Some call basalt wool one of the best among analogues. Over the years of use, it confirms its status. Here is a list of the positive properties that are inherent in stone wool:

1. Basalt slabs are a one-component material. There are options with impurities, but their share is too small. It is used for insulation of external and internal walls.
2. Excellent sound and heat insulation performance. The thermal conductivity of the slabs is low, the fiber structure ideally fulfills its primary tasks: does not release heat, insulates from sound, and dampens vibration and sound waves. They are converted into thermal energy.
3. Light weight. There is only air between the fibers. Transporting the material is as simple as working with it. Due to their low weight, sip panels are made with basalt insulation. Light wooden houses are also insulated with slabs, since the insulating layer will not heavily load the structure.
4. Long service life. According to experts, basalt wool will last 30–40 years without changes if the installation technology is followed. As practice shows, these figures are clearly underestimated; the slabs last longer.
5. The material is not afraid of the influence of aggressive chemicals: alkali, organic oils, solvents and acids.
6. Easy installation. Home insulation is sold in convenient mats. The dimensions are ideal for quickly covering any surface.
7. Not all insulation materials can boast moisture protection. Mineral wool, for example, when wet, becomes deformed and loses its properties. Basalt slabs do not have this drawback; moisture absorption is a scanty 2–5%.
8. The stove is not afraid of fungal microorganisms and mold.
9. The material resists negative atmospheric influences. Over the years, basalt slabs will remain in their original position without loss of characteristics. Temperature fluctuations, humidity - the products are not afraid of this. This allows the walls to be insulated with basalt slabs from the outside.
10. Under normal conditions, the insulation will not ignite. It is fireproof.
11. Ecological cleanliness. The boards are made from environmentally friendly and natural raw materials.

However, the product also has disadvantages. They are:

1. When asking the question which basalt insulation is best to choose for a frame house, it is important to take into account the operating conditions. After all, there are different manufacturers who make slabs thicker or thinner, denser or less dense, with or without a protective layer. For example, for wet rooms it is preferable to buy aluminum-coated slabs.
2. High price. This seems to be a minus, but if you take into account all the positive properties, it is logical that you have to pay for quality.

Based on this, we can conclude that basalt slabs are a universal material that has virtually no disadvantages and will serve for a long time without losing its properties.

Review of manufacturers, or what does the Russian market offer?

Let's look at which manufacturers today supply stone wool to the domestic market of insulating materials:

Knauf: recognized world leader

The most famous manufacturer of stone wool in the whole world is the German concern Knauf. He began producing products in 1932, and in the field of thermal insulation he mainly specializes in basalt fiber, although he sometimes produces fiberglass materials.

Knauf has a fairly well thought out choice of insulation for different house structures; for this purpose, they produce as many as five series: for the roof, and for the walls, and for the ceiling and partitions. Knauf also has universal mineral wool, which is suitable for any task:

Today Knauf produces stone wool literally for the whole world. But, unfortunately, buyers often complain about the increased rigidity of the slabs, which prick.

Of course, it’s not like glass wool; it’s more likely that there’s just an unpleasant sensation when working with bare hands. On the other hand, no one abroad would even think of working with cotton insulation without gloves.

Rockwool: high quality

No less famous is Rockwool - a Danish company operating since 1909. All its factories use only European equipment, which the company is especially proud of. Stone wool is supplied in the following forms:

By the way, Rockwool also has factories in Russia. Among other advantages of this basalt insulation, users usually note that it does not crumble or shrink, and also pleases with a wide selection of sizes and packaging. Those. It’s quite easy to choose the right option for building your home.

Ursa: expensive equipment

But Ursa have developed a new line of mineral wool. In fact, these are three entire production sites operating as the Ursa Eurasia association. Their main trump card is high-tech equipment. Previously, they worked more with fiberglass slabs, but today they use more natural basalt raw materials with acrylic-containing components.

Urs also has factories in Russia, namely in the city of Chudnovo. According to the manufacturer, new high-tech equipment from Europe was also imported there, and therefore you don’t have to worry about quality.

And Russia especially liked the Pureone series. By the way, this manufacturer’s basalt insulation is considered one of the best in terms of sound and heat insulation, although it has insufficient vapor permeability, as some complain.

TechnoNIKOL: for special loads

TechnoNIKOL is one of the most famous manufacturers of basalt insulation in Russia, producing its products under the Rocklight brand:

Interestingly, each TechnoNIKOL enterprise has its own laboratory. Thanks to this, multi-stage control is constantly carried out over the products. As a result, TechnoNIKOL received a European level certificate for its products.

And at one time, TechnoNIKOL modernized its production lines and was able to achieve a rather unique property of mineral wool - increased rigidity, thanks to which each basalt slab can withstand a load of up to 7 tons. The manufacturer is also trying to make the insulation unattractive to small rodents, since they really love such materials.

But, unfortunately, this insulation still has problems with hydrophobicity. There are also sometimes reports that mice especially love this mineral wool, and new slabs sometimes have an unpleasant chemical smell.

Isover: enviable durability

Basalt wool from the French company Isover has been produced for a very long time - more than 80 years. Such slabs are good because even over many years they do not change their shape and do not lose their properties.

Among the disadvantages, only poor moisture resistance and the repulsive odor of the material are noted.

Recommendations for choosing basalt insulation

Since basalt-based mineral insulation has different densities and shapes, you need to be guided by some principles when choosing a material.
Since basalt-based mineral insulation has different densities and shapes, you need to be guided by the following principles when choosing a material:

• To insulate a sloping roof, it is better to use a material whose thickness is at least 15 cm and whose density is from 40 kg/m3.
• To achieve high-quality sound insulation in interior partitions, you can use insulation with a density of 40-60 kg/m3. This will be enough, but there is no point in overpaying.
• To insulate the external walls of a house, it is recommended to use basalt insulation slabs with a thickness of 10 cm and a density of at least 80 kg/m3.
• If a ventilated façade is to be installed in two layers, then it is advisable to use two types of material – soft wool and then a harder one. In this case, softer material should be installed closer to the walls, and hard slabs should be installed closer to the façade finishing.

Important: when buying basalt-based insulation, pay attention to the packaging. As a rule, the manufacturer packages the material in shrink film, which prevents moisture from getting inside. And if the packaging is torn or damaged in places, it is better to refuse such a purchase. It is quite possible that during the process of storing or transporting the insulation, moisture has already entered it, which reduces the thermal insulation properties of basalt wool.

Pros and cons of mineral wool for facade insulation

Like all building materials, mineral wool has a number of advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include the following:

• Low level of flammability. Insulating a façade with mineral wool over plaster can be considered safe, since the material does not change its physical properties even when heated to a thousand degrees. Thanks to this, mineral wool is used as fire protection.
• Suitable for insulating wooden houses. Using mineral wool for the facade, it is possible to create a breathable layer that protects the wood from further rotting.
• Durability. If the walls are properly insulated, the thermal insulation layer will last more than 60 years.
• Density. Mineral wool holds its shape better than other building materials. It never dries out or becomes deformed.
• Easy to install. Even an inexperienced person who has never done this before can insulate a façade with mineral wool with his own hands.

The only serious drawback of mineral wool is its hygroscopicity. Due to frequent absorption of moisture, the thermal insulation properties of building materials gradually deteriorate.

To reduce the level of moisture absorption, the cotton wool will have to be treated with water-repellent agents.

The feasibility of external insulation

When insulating buildings, you should not only provide good thermal insulation performance, but also consider how you can avoid the appearance of condensation inside the walls during the cold season. Due to the change in the temperature of the building wall from minus on the outside to plus on the inside, at the conventional “dew” point, temperature changes turn into condensate, which is contained in the air of water vapor. When you move this point, along the thickness of the wall itself, the material becomes damp, and fungus and mold appear on it.

In the construction industry, the dew point is the temperature at which condensation forms. According to the rules, it should not be inside load-bearing walls.

When using wet facade technology, this point is moved beyond the building wall, thereby maintaining positive temperatures of all load-bearing structures.