HempWool Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our customers' most common questions regarding hemp insulation batting panels.
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Frequently Asked Questions of HempWool Insulation
What is HempWool?
HempWool is a type of insulation made from hemp fibers. It is used in construction and home insulation applications, and it is known for its sustainability, durability, and environmental benefits. HempWool is an eco-friendly and healthy fiber-batt insulation made from industrial hemp. Unlike many other insulation products, it does not contain any toxins and is naturally made. It is a suitable alternative to traditional insulation materials like fiberglass or Rockwool, and it is easy to use.
What is HempWool made out of?
HempWool is made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which is a member of the cannabis sativa family. Unlike marijuana, hemp is not psychoactive. To make HempWool, the fibers of the hemp plant are spun into a yarn, which is then woven or felted into a fabric. HempWool is constructed of roughly 92% hemp fiber and 8% textile fiber binder.
The fabric is then treated with a binding agent to help it retain its shape and improve its performance as an insulation material. The resulting product is a lightweight and flexible insulation material that is easy to handle and install.
How to order HempWool and have it sent directly to my project?
HempWool can be ordered from Material Warehouse and sent directly to your home or job-site assuming a standard 26' delivery truck is able to make it out to your location. All HempWool is shipped on pallets measuring 4'x4'x8'. The only exception are the 42 sq ft 2" thick R7 VanPacks, these are delivered via ground shipping.
https://mymaterialwarehouse.com/collections/hemp-insulation-panels-hempwool
What is the R-Value of Hemp Insulation?
The R-value of a material is a measure of its ability to resist heat transfer. The higher the R-value, the better the material is at insulating. The R-value of hemp insulation can vary depending on the specific product and the thickness of the insulation. However, in general, hemp insulation has an R-value of around 3.69 per inch of thickness. This is similar to the R-value of other types of insulation, such as fiberglass or Rockwool.
It is important to note that the R-value of hemp insulation can be affected by a number of factors, including the density of the material, the presence of any air spaces within the insulation
Overall, hemp insulation is a good choice for improving the energy efficiency of a building, as it has a relatively high R-value and is effective at reducing heat transfer.
HempWool bat sizing and R-Value Chart
How is HempWool installed?
HempWool can be easily installed using a pressure-fit system and is friendly for workers to use. It is recommended to cut the HempWool .5 inches thicker than the space it is being placed in for a snug pressure fit and for optimal performance.
The following steps can be taken for hemp insulation installation in most cases:
- Measure the area where the insulation will be installed to determine how much HempWool you will need. Be sure to allow for any gaps or spaces between the insulation and the framing of the wall or ceiling.
- Prepare the area for installation. Remove any old insulation or debris, and ensure that the surface is clean and dry.
- Cut the HempWool to fit the space using a non-serrated blade or a sharp utility knife.
- To install the insulation, position it between the studs and gently compress both sides. This will allow the insulation to take advantage of its "spring effect" and fit snugly between the wooden uprights. As it returns to its original shape, it will fit closely against the uprights, reducing the risk of thermal bridges.
- If the HempWool is being installed in a wall or ceiling that will be covered with drywall or other finishing materials, be sure to install any necessary vapor barriers or thermal barriers to ensure that the insulation performs effectively. Consult local building codes and professionals for appropriate vapor barrier.
Overall, installing HempWool is a relatively straightforward process that can be done by most homeowners with basic DIY skills. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take appropriate safety precautions when installing any type of insulation.
How to cut Hemp Insulation Hempwool?
HempWool, an environmentally friendly insulation made mostly of strong natural fibers, necessitates a distinct cutting method when compared to materials like fiberglass insulation.
We recommend using a grinder with a metal cutting wheel to ensure effective and quick results. The size of the cutting disc are determined by the thickness of the insulation to be cut, with a 7" cutting disc being appropriate for thicker insulation panels. If a mechanical grinder is not available or preferred then a hand insulation saw with waveform blades can be utilized instead.
Recommended tools for cutting hemp insulation HempWool:
- Hand grinder with metal cutting disc
- Insulation saw with a waveform blade
- Bread or insulation knife
- Table saw
Commonly used tools used to cut hemp insulation
How heavy is Hemp Insulation?
Many people are curious how heavy hemp insulation is so that they can understand if they will be able to install it by themselves or will need help manuvering the material into place.
HempWool insulation panels weigh 2.81 lbs/ft cubed. HempWool insulation panels are light enough for most people to be able to lift and install them unassisted.
Calculate the total square footage needed
How do I know how much Hemp Insulation is needed?
In most cases you will need to calculate the square footage of the areas you will be covering. For an interior wall this could be as easy as multiplying the total wall height from floor to ceiling by the total wall length.
If you have questions about your project and would like assistance during the ordering process please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team:
(800) 567-5358
What other kinds of complementary products work with Hemp Insulation?
HempWool can be used as a direct replacement for traditional insulation products in typical construction projects with 16-inch or 24-inch on-center framing layouts. It can be installed under drywall or used in conjunction with a wide range of standard building materials.
There are a number of complementary products that can be used in conjunction with HempWool insulation to improve the performance and efficiency of a building.
Some examples include:
- Vapor barriers: A vapor barrier is a material that is used to prevent moisture from entering a building or home. It is typically installed on the warm side of the insulation and helps to prevent condensation from forming within the walls or ceiling.
- Thermal barriers: A thermal barrier is a material that is used to reduce heat transfer through a building or home. It is typically installed on the exterior of a building and helps to improve the energy efficiency of the structure.
- Air sealing products: Air sealing products, such as caulk and weatherstripping, are used to seal gaps and cracks in a building or home to reduce air leakage and improve energy efficiency.
- Thermal mass materials: Thermal mass materials, such as concrete or brick, are used to store and release heat energy. They can be used in conjunction with insulation to improve the overall energy efficiency of a building.
There are a number of complementary products that can be used in conjunction with HempWool insulation to improve the performance and efficiency of a building. Some examples include:
Is Hemp Insulation fireproof?
Hemp insulation is NOT fireproof. It does however have a Class-E fire resistance, which means it has a higher FSI (Fire Safety Index) and SDI (Smoke Development Index) compared to some other insulation materials. However, it can be protected from fire by installing it between fire-resistant exterior siding and interior wallboards. While HempWool is generally approved for use on a case-by-case basis, it may not be suitable for all projects due to its lack of fire resistance.
A fire resistant variety of Hemp Insulation called "HempWool+" is currently in development and is expected to be released later in 2023.
Does HempWool promote mold growth?
HempWool insulation is resistant to mold growth and is an effective choice for humid environments. HempWool is hygrometric insulation made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which are naturally resistant to moisture. This makes HempWool less susceptible to mold growth compared to some other insulation materials. In addition, HempWool is vapor permeable, which means that it allows moisture to pass through it and helps to prevent the buildup of moisture within a wall or ceiling cavity.
Overall, HempWool is a good choice for preventing mold growth in construction and home insulation applications. It is durable, resistant to moisture, and allows moisture to pass through it, which helps to prevent the buildup of moisture within a building.
Hemp insulation is mold resistant
Is Hemp Insulation resistant to pests and insects?
HempWool insulation is resistant to pests, including insects and rodents, due to the natural properties of the hemp plant.
Hemp is naturally resistant to pests because the plants produce a variety of chemical compounds that act as natural repellents. These compounds, known as terpenes, have a strong, pungent aroma that is unpleasant to many insects and rodents. In addition, the fibers of the hemp plant are tough and difficult to chew, which makes it difficult for pests to damage or nest in the material.
When HempWool is used as insulation, these natural pest-repellent properties are retained, making it an effective choice for preventing pest infestations. In addition, HempWool is durable and resistant to moisture, which helps to further discourage pests from nesting in the material.
Overall, HempWool insulation is a good choice for preventing pest infestations in construction and home insulation applications due to its natural resistance to pests and its durability.
HempWool Insulation is safe to touch
Is Hemp Insulation safe to touch?
Hemp insulation is safe to touch, as it is made from natural fibers and does not contain any harmful chemicals or toxins. Hemp insulation is made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which are naturally soft and do not cause irritation or allergic reactions when touched. In addition, hemp insulation does not contain any harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde or asbestos, which can be harmful to touch or inhale.
Overall, hemp insulation is a safe and environmentally friendly choice for improving the energy efficiency of a building or home. It is easy to handle, does not cause irritation or allergic reactions when touched, and does not contain any harmful chemicals.
Is HempWool approved to use by my local building code?
Whether or not HempWool is approved for use by local building codes can vary depending on the specific regulations and requirements in the area where the building is located.
In general, HempWool has been approved for use by building departments across the country. However, it is a relatively new product in the construction industry, and some building offices and inspectors may be unfamiliar with its use. In these cases, it may be necessary to have a technical conversation with the local building jurisdiction to determine whether or not HempWool can be permitted for use.
It is important to check with your local building code and permitting office to determine whether or not HempWool is approved for use in your area. It may be necessary to provide documentation or other information to demonstrate that the product meets the local building code requirements.
What makes Hemp Insulation sustainable?
Hemp Insulation is considered a sustainable insulation material due to a number of factors, including its natural origins, its low environmental impact, and its durability.
HempWool is made from the fibers of the hemp plant, which is a fast-growing and renewable resource. Hemp plants are known for their ability to absorb and store carbon dioxide during their growth cycle, which helps to offset their environmental impact. In addition, hemp plants are resistant to pests and require fewer pesticides and fertilizers compared to some other crops, which further reduces their environmental impact.
HempWool insulation is also a durable and long-lasting product that does not break down or degrade over time. This means that it can be used for many years without needing to be replaced, which helps to reduce waste and the overall environmental impact of the material.