Earthwool Insulation: What It Is, Benefits & R-Values
Earthwool insulation is a glasswool insulation product designed to improve thermal comfort and acoustic performance in Australian homes and buildings. Manufactured by Knauf Insulation, Earthwool uses ECOSE® Technology and is made using up to 80% recycled glass.
Earthwool is available for a range of applications, including ceilings, walls, underfloors and multi-use areas. Depending on the product and R-value selected, it can help reduce heat transfer, absorb unwanted sound and improve the overall comfort of a building.
One of the features that distinguishes Earthwool is its soft-to-handle formulation. ECOSE® Technology uses a bio-based binder with no added formaldehyde, while the glasswool itself provides the thermal and acoustic properties expected from insulation.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Earthwool insulation is, what it is made from, where it can be used, its key benefits, available R-values and how to choose the right type for your project.
What Is Earthwool made from?
Earthwool is a glasswool insulation made primarily from glass fibres, with up to 80% of the glass content coming from recycled glass. The fibres are formed into insulation batts and rolls designed to provide thermal and acoustic performance in ceilings, walls, floors and other building applications.
Earthwool also uses ECOSE® Technology, a plant-based binder that holds the glass fibres together. According to the manufacturer, the binder contains no added formaldehyde and is based on renewable, bio-based materials rather than traditional petrochemical-based binders.
Recycled Glass
One of the defining materials used in Earthwool is recycled glass. The manufacturer states that Earthwool is made using up to 80% recycled glass, including post-consumer glass. The recycled glass is processed into fine glass fibres that form the structure of the insulation.
Using recycled glass allows Earthwool to combine the thermal and acoustic properties of glasswool with a manufacturing approach that incorporates recycled material.
What Is ECOSE® Technology?
ECOSE® Technology is the binder technology used in Earthwool to hold the glass fibres together. It uses a renewable, plant-based binder and contains no added formaldehyde. The manufacturer also states that the binder is less energy intensive than traditional formaldehyde-based binders used in conventional glasswool insulation.
ECOSE® Technology also contributes to the characteristic soft feel and natural brown colour of Earthwool. The brown colour comes from the binder itself rather than added dyes or colourants.
Is There Wool in Earthwool?
Despite its name, Earthwool does not contain sheep’s wool. Earthwool is a glasswool insulation product made from glass fibres. The name refers to the product’s natural-looking appearance and its use of recycled glass and ECOSE® Technology, rather than wool from animals.
The exact construction and specifications can vary between Earthwool products, so the product datasheet should be checked when selecting insulation for a particular application.
What R-Value of Earthwool Insulation Do You Need?
The R-value of insulation measures its resistance to heat transfer. In simple terms, a higher R-value provides greater resistance to heat moving through the insulation.
However, choosing the right R-value is not simply a matter of selecting the highest number available. The appropriate Earthwool product depends on where the insulation is being installed, the building design, the existing insulation and the level of thermal performance required.
The current Earthwool ceiling range includes R3.5, R4.0, R5.0, R6.0, R7.0 and R8.0 products. The thickness increases as the R-value increases, from 175 mm for R3.5 through to 350 mm for R8.0.
Earthwool Ceiling Batt
Thickness
R3.5
175 mm
R4.0
195 mm
R5.0
210–230 mm
R6.0
275 mm
R7.0
330 mm
R8.0
350 mm
For specific ceiling applications, options include Knauf Earthwool R3.5 Ceiling Insulation Batts and Knauf Earthwool R4.0 Ceiling Insulation Batts, depending on the level of thermal resistance and available ceiling space required for the project. The higher-R-value ceiling products provide greater thermal resistance, but the available roof space and the physical thickness of the insulation also need to be considered.
Earthwool Wall and Acoustic R-Values
Earthwool wall products are available in different R-values and densities for thermal and acoustic applications. The range includes products such as R2.0, R2.0 HD, R2.5 HD SoundShield, R2.7 SoundShield Plus and R4.0 HD SoundShield Plus, depending on the wall system and application.
For walls where sound reduction is an important consideration, a higher-density SoundShield product may be more appropriate than choosing a wall batt based solely on its R-value.
This is an important distinction: R-value relates to thermal resistance, while acoustic performance depends on the complete wall or ceiling system and the characteristics of the insulation used within it.
Earthwool Underfloor Insulation
Earthwool FloorShield is an underfloor batt with an R2.5 rating. It is designed for sub-floor applications, including timber sub-floors, pole houses and other suitable underfloor spaces.
Underfloor insulation can help reduce heat transfer between the interior of a building and the space below the floor, contributing to a more comfortable indoor environment.
Earthwool Multi-Use Insulation
Earthwool also includes R2.5 Multi-Use Roll, which can be used in suitable applications where a flexible roll format is preferred. The manufacturer’s current product range lists the R2.5 Multi-Use Roll at 90 mm thickness.
The correct application should always be checked against the manufacturer’s product specifications rather than assuming that one Earthwool product can be substituted for another.
Does a Higher R-Value Mean Better Insulation?
Generally, a higher R-value means greater resistance to heat transfer through the insulation itself. However, the highest R-value is not automatically the right choice for every project.
The available space, installation conditions, building design, climate, required energy performance and relevant Australian requirements all need to be considered.
It’s also important to install insulation at its specified thickness. Earthwool states that ceiling batts should not be compressed to fit another application, because compressing the insulation can reduce its thermal performance.
Key Benefits of Earthwool Insulation
Earthwool insulation is designed to provide more than thermal insulation alone. Depending on the product selected, it can help improve indoor comfort, reduce heat transfer, absorb unwanted sound and provide a practical insulation solution for ceilings, walls and floors.
Key benefits of Earthwool include:
Thermal Performance
Earthwool insulation helps slow the movement of heat through ceilings, walls and floors. In winter, insulation helps reduce heat loss from the home, while in summer it helps limit heat entering from outside.
The R-value of the product determines its level of thermal resistance, so selecting the appropriate R-value for the application is important when planning an insulation upgrade.
Acoustic Performance
Earthwool can also help reduce unwanted noise by absorbing sound within wall, ceiling and floor systems.
For projects where acoustic performance is particularly important, the Earthwool Sound Shield range is available in different densities and R-values to provide additional sound-absorbing performance.
This can be useful in bedrooms, living areas, home offices and between rooms where reducing sound transfer is a priority.
Soft and Easier to Handle
One of the features associated with Earthwool is its softer feel compared with traditional glasswool products.
Knauf Insulation states that its fibreisation process creates longer glass fibres, while ECOSE® Technology contributes to a softer, less dusty product. This is designed to make Earthwool more comfortable to handle and install.
Even so, appropriate protective equipment and safe installation practices should always be followed when working with insulation.
Non-Combustible
Earthwool insulation is classified as non-combustible under AS 1530.1. Its fire performance is an important consideration when selecting insulation for Australian building applications.
The exact fire performance and compliance requirements can vary depending on the building system and application, so the relevant product documentation should be checked for a specific project.
Made Using Recycled Glass
Earthwool is manufactured using up to 80% recycled glass, which forms part of its sustainability credentials. The recycled glass is processed into the glass fibres used to manufacture the insulation.
This means Earthwool combines the established thermal and acoustic properties of glasswool with the use of recycled material in its manufacturing process.
No Added Formaldehyde
Earthwool products made with ECOSE® Technology use a plant-based binder that contains no added formaldehyde, according to the manufacturer. The technology is based on renewable, bio-based materials rather than traditional petrochemical-based binders.
Earthwool products are also designed to have low levels of dust and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, with certain products carrying indoor air quality certifications.
Odourless and Resistant to Microbial Growth
Earthwool product documentation describes the insulation as odourless, while testing for specific products indicates that it does not support microbial growth.
The manufacturer also states that Earthwool does not sustain vermin or attract insects.
These characteristics can be useful considerations when choosing insulation for enclosed building spaces.
Efficient Packaging
Earthwool uses compression packaging to reduce the space required during transport and storage. The manufacturer states that some products can provide up to 55% more insulation per pack through compression packaging.
Once opened, the insulation is designed to recover to its specified thickness. It should not, however, be permanently compressed after installation because compression can reduce the product’s thermal performance.
A Range of Applications
Earthwool is available in different products designed for specific applications, including ceilings, walls, underfloors and acoustic insulation.
Choosing the correct product is important because insulation products are designed for particular applications, R-values, densities and installation conditions. For example, the manufacturer specifically advises that Earthwool ceiling batts should not be used in walls or compressed to fit another application.
What is ECOSE Technology?
ECOSE® Technology is Knauf Insulation’s proprietary bio-based binder system used to manufacture Earthwool. Instead of harsh chemical resins, it uses only natural raw materials derived from rapidly renewable resources.
Launched in 2009, ECOSE® Technology completely eliminates added formaldehyde, phenols, acrylics and artificial dyes from the manufacturing process — making Earthwool significantly more eco-friendly and healthier than conventional glasswool insulation. The natural brown colour of Earthwool comes directly from the ECOSE® binder itself, with no artificial colourants needed.
Critically, the ECOSE® binder is actually stronger than traditional formaldehyde-based resins — resulting in better long-term durability and Eurofins Gold certification for outstanding indoor air quality.
Earthwool vs Other Insulation Brands
Earthwool vs Bradford Insulation
Both are glasswool products with similar thermal performance and R-value options. Earthwool has the clear edge in handling comfort, indoor air quality and environmental credentials thanks to ECOSE® Technology. Bradford Gold uses conventional formaldehyde-based resins and lacks the Eurofins Gold certification. For most residential ceiling and wall applications, Earthwool is the better all-round choice.
Earthwool vs Polyester Insulation
Polyester is completely itch-free and contains no VOCs, making it the preferred choice for internal walls, between-floor applications and allergy-sensitive households. However polyester falls short on fire resistance — it melts rather than being non-combustible — making Earthwool the safer and more cost-effective choice for ceiling and roof insulation.
Earthwool vs Fletcher Insulation
Pink Batts by Fletcher Insulation is the budget-friendly option and widely available across Australia. However it uses conventional glasswool manufacturing with standard chemical binders, making it itchier to handle and without the eco credentials of Earthwool. If cost is the primary driver, Pink Batts is a reasonable choice — but for a comparable price, Earthwool delivers a meaningfully better product. See our full Pink Batts vs Earthwool comparison for the complete breakdown.
Earthwool vs Rockwool
Rockwool offers superior fire ratings and acoustic performance, making it the go-to choice for commercial insulation and high-fire-risk applications. For standard residential projects however, Earthwool strikes a better balance of thermal performance, ease of installation and competitive pricing. Rockwool’s premium price point is rarely justified in a typical home build or renovation. See our full Earthwool vs Rockwool comparison for a detailed breakdown of thermal, acoustic, fire and cost differences.
VERDICT: For most Australian homeowners insulating ceilings and walls, Earthwool is the sweet spot — formaldehyde-free, non-combustible, eco-certified and competitively priced. View our full Earthwool insulation range to find the right product for your project.
Earthwool vs Ecowool
Ecowool and Earthwool are often confused thanks to the similar name and branding, but they’re made by different companies using different technology — Earthwool by Knauf Insulation with ECOSE® Technology, Ecowool by PGF Insulation with SensiTouch Technology. Both are soft to handle and formaldehyde-free, with genuinely comparable thermal and fire performance. Ecowool’s standout is its 70-year warranty, 20 years longer than Earthwool’s 50-year cover, while Earthwool carries a broader certification trail including GreenTag Level A and Red List Free status. See our full Ecowool vs Earthwool comparison for the complete breakdown.
Is Earthwool Australian Made?
Earthwool is a Knauf Insulation product developed and supplied for the Australian market. Product availability and manufacturing arrangements can vary by product and should be confirmed with the manufacturer or supplier.
Is Earthwool Insulation Dangerous?
No — Earthwool is non-toxic and safe to handle both during and after installation. Because it’s made using the bio-based ECOSE® binder rather than traditional formaldehyde-based resins, it avoids the harsher chemical exposure associated with some conventional glasswool products. That said, as with any insulation material, it’s still worth wearing basic protective gear when installing it — a dust mask, long sleeves and safety glasses are recommended, since loose fibres can still shed during handling even with Earthwool’s low-itch formula. It’s also important to avoid installing insulation directly over electrical cabling, and to follow the manufacturer’s installation guidelines to reduce any fire risk during the build.
Conclusion: Is Earthwool Insulation a Good Choice?
Earthwool is a glasswool insulation range designed to provide thermal and acoustic performance across a variety of applications, including ceilings, walls and floors. Its use of recycled glass and ECOSE® Technology, combined with its range of R-values and product formats, makes it a versatile option for many Australian insulation projects.
The right Earthwool product depends on the application, required R-value, available installation space and the thermal or acoustic performance required. Rather than choosing an insulation product based on R-value alone, it is important to select a product designed for the specific area being insulated.
If you’re considering Earthwool for your project, you can explore the available products and applications in our Earthwool insulation range.
FAQs
No — Earthwool's ECOSE® Technology binder and finer fibre structure make it significantly more comfortable to handle than traditional fibreglass insulation, with up to 80% less irritation. Most installers and homeowners find it noticeably softer to touch than older-style glasswool.
No. Earthwool contains no added formaldehyde or phenol-based chemicals. The ECOSE® Technology bio-based binder is completely formaldehyde-free, making it a healthier choice for home insulation and indoor air quality.
Yes. Earthwool is non-toxic and safe to handle both during and after installation, thanks to its bio-based ECOSE® binder rather than traditional formaldehyde-based resins. As with any insulation material, it's still worth wearing basic protective gear during installation — a dust mask, long sleeves and safety glasses — since loose fibres can still shed during handling.
No, Earthwool is non-hygroscopic and doesn't absorb water. However, wet insulation temporarily loses R-value, so it's important to fix any roof leaks before installing insulation to maintain optimal thermal performance.
50+ years with proper installation. Knauf backs Earthwool with a 50-year product warranty.
Yes, if the existing insulation is clean, dry and not compressed. If it's contaminated, wet or degraded, it's best to remove it first for optimal results. We offer professional insulation removal services if you need expert help.
The right R-value depends on your climate zone under the National Construction Code — see the climate zone table above for a complete breakdown. For most Melbourne homes, R4.0–R6.0 ceiling batts are recommended, while wall, acoustic and underfloor applications have their own specific R-value ranges.
Earthwool Ceiling Batts are manufactured to fit standard Australian roof joist spacings of 430mm and 580mm, so they slot in without needing to be cut down in most standard homes. Sound Shield wall batts are similarly sized to fit common stud spacings. It's worth checking your actual joist or stud spacing before ordering, since older homes occasionally use non-standard spacing.
Start by measuring the total area you're insulating in square metres, then subtract for any large obstructions like skylights, bulkheads or vents. Each pack's coverage is listed on the packaging or product page, so once you know your total area you can work out how many packs you'll need. It's worth ordering slightly more than the bare minimum to allow for cutting around downlights, vents and joists.
What our customers say about us?
After removing old materials, expert teams can install energy-efficient insulation tailored to the home’s specific needs. This might include blown-in insulation, new batts, or other high-performance insulation materials designed to reduce energy bills and improve comfort.
Arthur and team were great. From quick turnaround on quotes to sending the team up and getting the job done in a day. It's already feeling better in the house.
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After struggling to even get calls back from other providers, Arthur at No Gap was speedy with a quote, communicative, and really helpful in setting us up for our insulation removal and replacement.
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Cannot fault the team, and the house is already feeling more comfortable, and even more quiet with the new insulation.
Very happy with the service. Arthur was easy to deal with, and the team that came out provided and installed roofing insulation in a thorough, professional and efficient manner.
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Response from the owner
1 year ago
Hi, we really appreciate you taking the time to leave a positive review! Your feedback means a lot to us as we continually strive for
excellence. Thanks for your recommendation!
Hi Geoff, we really appreciate you taking the time to leave a positive review! Your feedback means a lot to us as we continually strive for
excellence. Thanks for your recommendation!
We recently engaged No Gap Insulation and found the whole process, from quotation through to installation, absolutely seamless. Arthur was my single point of contact throughout — he was professional, responsive to my queries, and made everything straightforward.
The work involved removing and disposing of the existing insulation batts and installing new ones. The team was very thorough, and I appreciated being shown clear before-and-after photos to see the difference. Overall, an excellent experience — highly recommended.
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Great service overall. Arthur and his team with Jacob were very efficient and professional.
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We highly recommend the guys at No Gap. Good price, great service. After one month we can already see the savings on our gas bill and feel the difference it makes inside. We should have done this years ago..
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1 year ago
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Commercial Insulation: A Complete Guide for Australian Buildings Commercial buildings have different insulation requirements depending on their design, construction and
