Sisal Wool Insulation

The Complete Guide to Sisal Wool Insulation in the UK

Sisal wool insulation represents an innovative, eco-friendly solution for UK buildings, combining superior thermal performance with outstanding environmental credentials. Developed in Scotland by Sisaltech Ltd, this revolutionary insulation material offers exceptional benefits for both new construction and retrofit projects.

What is Sisal Wool Insulation?

Sisal wool insulation is made from a blend of sisal fibres sourced ethically from Tanzania and recycled wool from the Harris Tweed and British wool carpet industries. This unique combination creates a truly circular economy product that is breathable, vapour permeable, and carbon neutral.

Sisalwool™ natural fibre insulation delivers excellent thermal and acoustic performance, making it suitable for a wide range of building insulation applications.

Sustainable Composition

• Natural Origins – Sisal fibres are ethically sourced from Tanzania and blended with recycled materials from the UK.

• Recycled Wool – The wool component is derived from the waste streams of the Harris Tweed and British wool carpet industries, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

• Circular Economy – By incorporating coffee sacks, ropes, and carpet waste, sisal wool insulation supports the principles of a circular economy.

Despite sourcing materials from East Africa, sisal wool insulation maintains a carbon-neutral footprint through:

• Sea transportation of raw materials.

• Recycled coffee sacks from Scottish roasters.

• Local recycled wool integration.

• A zero waste manufacturing process.

Performance Benefits

• Thermal Efficiency – With a thermal conductivity of 0.037 W/mK and a density of 40kg/m³, sisal wool insulation provides:

  • Superior temperature regulation.

  • Excellent breathability.

• Acoustic Properties – Sisal wool insulation offers sound reduction of up to 12dB at frequencies between 500-2000Hz, enhancing living space quality by minimising noise pollution.

Applications of Sisal Wool Insulation

• Wall and Partition Insulation – Ideal for stud walls and partitions, delivering both thermal and acoustic insulation.

• Floor and Joist Insulation – Installed between joists for enhanced energy efficiency and soundproofing.

• Roof Insulation – Suitable for use in loft spaces and rafters to improve building envelope performance.

• Timber Frame Construction – Provides natural insulation for timber frame buildings.

• Retrofit Projects – Perfect for retrofitting older homes, offering a breathable, sustainable insulation solution.

Why Choose Sisal Wool Insulation?

• Innovative Product – Sisal wool insulation is developed by John Ferguson following his MSc research in Tanzania. The product emerged from his studies into sisal fibre applications, benefiting both UK construction and East African farmers.

• Safe and Easy to Handle – Non-irritant to skin and can be installed without protective equipment.

• Easy to Install – Friction fitting allows the insulation to be easily placed between studs and joists. It can also be cut with a hand saw.

• Fire Resistance – Sisal wool insulation provides enhanced fire resistance through natural flame retardancy.

• Cost-Effective – Sisal wool insulation offers excellent value for money while contributing to energy savings and reduced heating bills.

Key Features of Sisal Wool Insulation

• Thermal Performance – Maintains consistent indoor temperatures throughout the year.

• Breathability – Helps regulate moisture, preventing condensation and contributing to healthier indoor air quality.

• Acoustic Properties – Reduces airborne noise, improving the acoustic environment of buildings.

• Recyclable and Biodegradable – At the end of its lifecycle, sisal wool insulation can be recycled or composted.

Innovation and Development

• Circular Economy Focus – Sisal wool insulation is manufactured with a commitment to sustainability by:

  • Utilising waste materials from the coffee roasting and carpet industries.

  • Supporting small-scale sisal farmers in Tanzania.

  • Ensuring end-of-life recycling.

Conclusion

Sisal wool insulation is a sustainable, high-performance solution that combines the benefits of natural fibres with recycled materials, offering outstanding thermal and acoustic properties. As an eco-friendly insulation product, it helps reduce carbon footprints while promoting healthier, more comfortable living environments. Choose Sisalwool™ natural fibre insulation for your next project and invest in a product that delivers both performance and sustainability.