Here you find a variety of materials for insulation
In Switzerland, a variety of materials are available for sustainable building renovations, particularly for insulation. Biogenic and low-carbon materials are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and excellent performance. These include straw, hemp, cellulose, and wood fiber.
Straw is a renewable, biodegradable material that provides excellent thermal insulation and helps reduce energy consumption.
Hemp is another versatile option, offering good thermal and acoustic insulation properties, while also being resistant to pests and mold.
Cellulose insulation, made from recycled paper, is an effective way to utilize waste materials and provides high thermal resistance.
Wood fiber insulation is derived from sustainable forestry practices and offers both thermal and acoustic benefits.
The advantages of using these biogenic and low-carbon materials include reducing the carbon footprint of buildings, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable resources. These materials also contribute to healthier indoor environments by being non-toxic and improving air quality. As Switzerland aims to meet its ambitious climate goals, the adoption of such sustainable insulation materials is crucial for environmentally friendly and energy-efficient renovations.
Straw
Straw
Straw, an abundant agricultural byproduct, is gaining attention as an eco-friendly insulation material in sustainable construction. Known for its excellent thermal properties, straw bales can provide effective insulation, keeping buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. This natural material is not only renewable but also biodegradable, contributing to lower carbon footprints and reduced environmental impact. Straw insulation is often used in combination with other natural materials, creating breathable walls that help regulate indoor humidity. Additionally, straw bales offer good sound insulation and can be treated to enhance fire resistance. As a cost-effective and sustainable option, straw insulation is becoming a popular choice for those seeking to build or renovate with environmental consciousness.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.066 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.096 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Straw is renewable and biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact compared to synthetic insulation materials.
- Straw bales offer excellent thermal performance, enhancing energy efficiency and lowering heating and cooling costs.
- As an agricultural byproduct, straw is widely available and inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly insulation option.
Hemp
Hemp
Hemp, a rapidly renewable resource, is increasingly used as an eco-friendly insulation material in sustainable construction. Renowned for its impressive thermal and acoustic properties, hemp insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces noise levels. This natural material is renewable, biodegradable, and has low embodied emissions, making it an environmentally responsible choice. Hemp insulation also contributes to indoor air quality by regulating humidity and is resistant to pests and mold. Its ability to sequester carbon during growth further lowers its environmental footprint, making it an attractive option for sustainable building projects.
Properties
- U-value: 0.04 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.622 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Hemp is renewable and biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact compared to synthetic materials.
- Offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Resistant to pests and mold, enhancing building durability and indoor air quality.
Cellulose
Cellulose
Cellulose insulation, derived primarily from recycled paper products, is a sustainable and effective solution for improving building energy efficiency. Known for its superior thermal properties, cellulose insulation helps keep buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. This eco-friendly material is both renewable and biodegradable, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Cellulose insulation is treated with non-toxic fire retardants, enhancing its safety profile. Its ability to fill small gaps and voids ensures comprehensive coverage and improved air tightness, leading to lower heating and cooling costs. As a recycled product, cellulose insulation supports waste reduction and promotes sustainable construction practices.
Properties
- U-value: 0.04 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.281 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from recycled materials, reducing waste and supporting sustainability.
- Excellent thermal performance, improving energy efficiency and reducing utility costs.
- Treated with non-toxic fire retardants, enhancing safety without compromising environmental integrity.
Wood Fiber
Wood Fiber
Wood fiber insulation, made from sustainable forestry byproducts, is an eco-friendly and efficient solution for improving building energy performance. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic properties, wood fiber insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces noise. This natural material is both renewable and biodegradable, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Wood fiber insulation also offers good vapor permeability, allowing buildings to "breathe" and regulate indoor humidity levels. Treated to enhance fire resistance, wood fiber insulation combines safety with environmental responsibility, making it a popular choice for sustainable construction projects.
Properties
- U-value: 0.038 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.46 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
Made from sustainable forestry byproducts, supporting responsible forest management and reducing waste.
Excellent thermal and acoustic performance, enhancing energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
Good vapor permeability, improving indoor air quality and preventing moisture-related issues.
Treated for enhanced fire resistance, ensuring safety without compromising environmental integrity.
Hempcrete
Hempcrete
Hempcrete, a bio-composite material made from the inner woody core of the hemp plant mixed with a lime-based binder, is an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for construction. Known for its excellent thermal insulation and high breathability, hempcrete helps maintain stable indoor temperatures and regulate humidity, contributing to a healthy living environment. Hempcrete also offers good fire resistance and acoustic properties, making it a popular choice for sustainable and resilient building projects.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.06 - 0.09 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.32 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from hemp, a fast-growing renewable resource.
- Excellent thermal insulation and breathability, improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Naturally resistant to mold and pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- High fire resistance, enhancing safety
Sheep wool
Sheep wool
Sheep wool insulation, crafted from the natural fibers of sheep's fleece, offers a sustainable and efficient solution for enhancing building energy performance. It has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce noise. As a renewable and biodegradable material, sheep wool insulation contributes to a lower carbon footprint. Its natural ability to manage moisture aids in regulating indoor humidity, promoting a healthier indoor environment. Treated for fire resistance and pest control, sheep wool insulation combines safety with environmental responsibility.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.035 - 0.04 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.9 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from renewable sheep wool, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing environmental impact.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance, improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Naturally hygroscopic, helping to regulate indoor humidity and enhance air quality.
- Treated for fire resistance and pest deterrence, ensuring safety without compromising environmental sustainability.
Recycled cotton
Recycled cotton
Recycled cotton insulation, produced from reclaimed cotton fibers such as denim and other textile waste, offers an eco-friendly and effective solution for improving building energy performance. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic properties, recycled cotton insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce noise. Recycled cotton insulation also offers good moisture absorption, which helps regulate indoor humidity levels and enhance air quality.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.039 - 0.044 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.25 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from reclaimed cotton fibers, reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance
- Good moisture absorption, improving indoor air quality and preventing mold growth.
Cellulose soft panels
Cellulose soft panels
Cellulose soft panels, crafted from recycled paper fibers, are an eco-conscious choice for enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings. These panels provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to keep indoor temperatures stable while also offering soundproofing. Made from renewable and biodegradable materials, cellulose soft panels contribute to a reduced environmental impact. They excel in moisture control, which aids in maintaining optimal indoor humidity and improving air quality. With treatments to enhance fire resistance and inhibit mold growth, these panels not only promote sustainability but also ensure a safe and durable solution for modern construction needs.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.037 - 0.042 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.203 kgCO2eq/kg
Key Benefits
- Produced from recycled paper fibers, these panels help minimize waste and support environmentally friendly practices.
- Outstanding thermal and acoustic insulation properties boost energy efficiency and enhance indoor comfort.
- Effective moisture control improves air quality and reduces the likelihood of mold.
Poured earth with additives
Poured earth with additives
Poured earth with model clays is a sustainable building material that combines the natural properties of earth with the plasticity and strength of clays. This material offers a unique aesthetic and excellent thermal mass, contributing to energy-efficient building designs. Poured earth with model clays is highly durable and can be customized with different clay types and pigments to achieve varied textures and appearances. As a natural and locally sourced material, it significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction methods. Additionally, it provides good fire resistance and moisture regulation, making it a resilient and eco-friendly option for modern construction projects.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Varies depending on the clay and earth mixture but generally provides high thermal mass for energy efficiency.
- Durability: Enhanced by the clay content, providing long-lasting structural integrity.
- Moisture Regulation: Naturally regulates indoor humidity, contributing to a healthy living environment.
Key Benefits
- Combines natural earth and clay materials, reducing reliance on industrial building products and minimizing environmental impact.
- Offers excellent thermal mass, which helps in maintaining stable indoor temperatures and reducing energy consumption.
- Aesthetic versatility allows for customization in color and texture, enabling unique architectural designs.
- Provides natural fire resistance and moisture management, enhancing the safety and durability of structures built with this material.
Light earth
Light earth
Light earth with hemp shives or wood chips is an innovative and eco-friendly construction material that combines the natural insulating properties of hemp or wood chips with the thermal mass of earth. This composite material is lightweight yet durable, offering excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. The inclusion of hemp shives or wood chips enhances the breathability and flexibility of the material, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, it provides natural fire resistance and effective moisture regulation, ensuring both safety and comfort in construction.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Low, providing strong insulation and reducing energy needs for heating and cooling.
- Density: Lightweight compared to traditional earth-based materials, making it easier to work with and reducing structural load.
- Vapor Permeability: High, allowing the building to "breathe" and maintain balanced indoor humidity levels.
Key Benefits
- Combines the thermal mass of earth with the insulating properties of hemp, enhancing energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Highly breathable, promoting a healthy indoor climate by regulating moisture and reducing the risk of mold growth.
- Naturally fire-resistant and durable, providing long-term safety and resilience.
Typha board
Typha board
Typha board, made from the fibers of the cattail plant (Typha spp.), is an innovative and sustainable construction material. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties, Typha board helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduce noise pollution. This material is renewable and biodegradable, and is naturally resistant to moisture and pests, making it a durable choice for various building applications. With its unique combination of lightweight structure and high insulating capacity, Typha board is a versatile and eco-friendly option for modern sustainable construction.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Approximately 0.05 - 0.06 W/m·K
- Density: Light, typically around 200-300 kg/m³, offering ease of handling and installation.
- Vapor Permeability: High, allowing the material to regulate indoor humidity effectively.
Key Benefits
- Made from renewable cattail fibers, Typha board supports sustainable harvesting practices and minimizes environmental impact.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties enhance energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Naturally moisture-resistant, reducing the risk of mold and contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
- Lightweight and easy to work with, while still providing robust insulation and structural support in various building applications.
Straw
Straw
Straw, an abundant agricultural byproduct, is gaining attention as an eco-friendly insulation material in sustainable construction. Known for its excellent thermal properties, straw bales can provide effective insulation, keeping buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. This natural material is not only renewable but also biodegradable, contributing to lower carbon footprints and reduced environmental impact. Straw insulation is often used in combination with other natural materials, creating breathable walls that help regulate indoor humidity. Additionally, straw bales offer good sound insulation and can be treated to enhance fire resistance. As a cost-effective and sustainable option, straw insulation is becoming a popular choice for those seeking to build or renovate with environmental consciousness.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.066 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.096 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Straw is renewable and biodegradable, reducing the environmental impact compared to synthetic insulation materials.
- Straw bales offer excellent thermal performance, enhancing energy efficiency and lowering heating and cooling costs.
- As an agricultural byproduct, straw is widely available and inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly insulation option.
Hemp
Hemp
Hemp, a rapidly renewable resource, is increasingly used as an eco-friendly insulation material in sustainable construction. Renowned for its impressive thermal and acoustic properties, hemp insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces noise levels. This natural material is renewable, biodegradable, and has low embodied emissions, making it an environmentally responsible choice. Hemp insulation also contributes to indoor air quality by regulating humidity and is resistant to pests and mold. Its ability to sequester carbon during growth further lowers its environmental footprint, making it an attractive option for sustainable building projects.
Properties
- U-value: 0.04 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.622 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Hemp is renewable and biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact compared to synthetic materials.
- Offers excellent thermal and acoustic insulation, improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Resistant to pests and mold, enhancing building durability and indoor air quality.
Cellulose
Cellulose
Cellulose insulation, derived primarily from recycled paper products, is a sustainable and effective solution for improving building energy efficiency. Known for its superior thermal properties, cellulose insulation helps keep buildings warm in winter and cool in summer. This eco-friendly material is both renewable and biodegradable, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Cellulose insulation is treated with non-toxic fire retardants, enhancing its safety profile. Its ability to fill small gaps and voids ensures comprehensive coverage and improved air tightness, leading to lower heating and cooling costs. As a recycled product, cellulose insulation supports waste reduction and promotes sustainable construction practices.
Properties
- U-value: 0.04 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.281 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from recycled materials, reducing waste and supporting sustainability.
- Excellent thermal performance, improving energy efficiency and reducing utility costs.
- Treated with non-toxic fire retardants, enhancing safety without compromising environmental integrity.
Wood Fiber
Wood Fiber
Wood fiber insulation, made from sustainable forestry byproducts, is an eco-friendly and efficient solution for improving building energy performance. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic properties, wood fiber insulation helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces noise. This natural material is both renewable and biodegradable, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Wood fiber insulation also offers good vapor permeability, allowing buildings to "breathe" and regulate indoor humidity levels. Treated to enhance fire resistance, wood fiber insulation combines safety with environmental responsibility, making it a popular choice for sustainable construction projects.
Properties
- U-value: 0.038 W/m,K
- GHG emissions production: 0.46 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
Made from sustainable forestry byproducts, supporting responsible forest management and reducing waste.
Excellent thermal and acoustic performance, enhancing energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
Good vapor permeability, improving indoor air quality and preventing moisture-related issues.
Treated for enhanced fire resistance, ensuring safety without compromising environmental integrity.
Hempcrete
Hempcrete
Hempcrete, a bio-composite material made from the inner woody core of the hemp plant mixed with a lime-based binder, is an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for construction. Known for its excellent thermal insulation and high breathability, hempcrete helps maintain stable indoor temperatures and regulate humidity, contributing to a healthy living environment. Hempcrete also offers good fire resistance and acoustic properties, making it a popular choice for sustainable and resilient building projects.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.06 - 0.09 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.32 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from hemp, a fast-growing renewable resource.
- Excellent thermal insulation and breathability, improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Naturally resistant to mold and pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
- High fire resistance, enhancing safety
Sheep wool
Sheep wool
Sheep wool insulation, crafted from the natural fibers of sheep's fleece, offers a sustainable and efficient solution for enhancing building energy performance. It has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties and helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce noise. As a renewable and biodegradable material, sheep wool insulation contributes to a lower carbon footprint. Its natural ability to manage moisture aids in regulating indoor humidity, promoting a healthier indoor environment. Treated for fire resistance and pest control, sheep wool insulation combines safety with environmental responsibility.
Properties
- Thermal conductivity: 0.035 - 0.04 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.9 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from renewable sheep wool, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing environmental impact.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance, improving energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Naturally hygroscopic, helping to regulate indoor humidity and enhance air quality.
- Treated for fire resistance and pest deterrence, ensuring safety without compromising environmental sustainability.
Recycled cotton
Recycled cotton
Recycled cotton insulation, produced from reclaimed cotton fibers such as denim and other textile waste, offers an eco-friendly and effective solution for improving building energy performance. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic properties, recycled cotton insulation helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce noise. Recycled cotton insulation also offers good moisture absorption, which helps regulate indoor humidity levels and enhance air quality.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.039 - 0.044 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.25 kgCO2eq/kg
Advantages
- Made from reclaimed cotton fibers, reducing waste and supporting sustainable practices.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic performance
- Good moisture absorption, improving indoor air quality and preventing mold growth.
Cellulose soft panels
Cellulose soft panels
Cellulose soft panels, crafted from recycled paper fibers, are an eco-conscious choice for enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings. These panels provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to keep indoor temperatures stable while also offering soundproofing. Made from renewable and biodegradable materials, cellulose soft panels contribute to a reduced environmental impact. They excel in moisture control, which aids in maintaining optimal indoor humidity and improving air quality. With treatments to enhance fire resistance and inhibit mold growth, these panels not only promote sustainability but also ensure a safe and durable solution for modern construction needs.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: 0.037 - 0.042 W/m·K
- GHG emissions production: 0.203 kgCO2eq/kg
Key Benefits
- Produced from recycled paper fibers, these panels help minimize waste and support environmentally friendly practices.
- Outstanding thermal and acoustic insulation properties boost energy efficiency and enhance indoor comfort.
- Effective moisture control improves air quality and reduces the likelihood of mold.
Poured earth with additives
Poured earth with additives
Poured earth with model clays is a sustainable building material that combines the natural properties of earth with the plasticity and strength of clays. This material offers a unique aesthetic and excellent thermal mass, contributing to energy-efficient building designs. Poured earth with model clays is highly durable and can be customized with different clay types and pigments to achieve varied textures and appearances. As a natural and locally sourced material, it significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with traditional construction methods. Additionally, it provides good fire resistance and moisture regulation, making it a resilient and eco-friendly option for modern construction projects.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Varies depending on the clay and earth mixture but generally provides high thermal mass for energy efficiency.
- Durability: Enhanced by the clay content, providing long-lasting structural integrity.
- Moisture Regulation: Naturally regulates indoor humidity, contributing to a healthy living environment.
Key Benefits
- Combines natural earth and clay materials, reducing reliance on industrial building products and minimizing environmental impact.
- Offers excellent thermal mass, which helps in maintaining stable indoor temperatures and reducing energy consumption.
- Aesthetic versatility allows for customization in color and texture, enabling unique architectural designs.
- Provides natural fire resistance and moisture management, enhancing the safety and durability of structures built with this material.
Light earth
Light earth
Light earth with hemp shives or wood chips is an innovative and eco-friendly construction material that combines the natural insulating properties of hemp or wood chips with the thermal mass of earth. This composite material is lightweight yet durable, offering excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. The inclusion of hemp shives or wood chips enhances the breathability and flexibility of the material, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. Additionally, it provides natural fire resistance and effective moisture regulation, ensuring both safety and comfort in construction.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Low, providing strong insulation and reducing energy needs for heating and cooling.
- Density: Lightweight compared to traditional earth-based materials, making it easier to work with and reducing structural load.
- Vapor Permeability: High, allowing the building to "breathe" and maintain balanced indoor humidity levels.
Key Benefits
- Combines the thermal mass of earth with the insulating properties of hemp, enhancing energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Highly breathable, promoting a healthy indoor climate by regulating moisture and reducing the risk of mold growth.
- Naturally fire-resistant and durable, providing long-term safety and resilience.
Typha board
Typha board
Typha board, made from the fibers of the cattail plant (Typha spp.), is an innovative and sustainable construction material. Known for its excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties, Typha board helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures and reduce noise pollution. This material is renewable and biodegradable, and is naturally resistant to moisture and pests, making it a durable choice for various building applications. With its unique combination of lightweight structure and high insulating capacity, Typha board is a versatile and eco-friendly option for modern sustainable construction.
Properties
- Thermal Conductivity: Approximately 0.05 - 0.06 W/m·K
- Density: Light, typically around 200-300 kg/m³, offering ease of handling and installation.
- Vapor Permeability: High, allowing the material to regulate indoor humidity effectively.
Key Benefits
- Made from renewable cattail fibers, Typha board supports sustainable harvesting practices and minimizes environmental impact.
- Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation properties enhance energy efficiency and indoor comfort.
- Naturally moisture-resistant, reducing the risk of mold and contributing to a healthier indoor environment.
- Lightweight and easy to work with, while still providing robust insulation and structural support in various building applications.
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