Fiberglass insulation has been the norm for decades, but builders, consumers, and contractors are all paying closer attention to energy efficiency, material quality, and overall health.
Your home could be losing heat in more ways than you realize. Walls, attics, and ceilings tend to get most of the attention, but pipes and water tanks can also leak warmth.
Modern fiberglass insulation responds to these new expectations. It does more than trap heat. "The Performance+ portfolio is formulated with Knauf’s ECOSE® bio-based binder, is manufactured with at least 55% recycled glass, and is third-party tested to meet low-dust and low-VOC criteria that support better indoor air," explains Tim Cofran, Director - Marketing & Brand at Knauf.
While the insulation you thought you knew was effective and affordable, new products like this target indoor air quality (IAQ) in a big way.
Formaldehyde-Free Insulation Matters
Formaldehyde-free products are the healthy alternative. For decades, fiberglass insulation was bound with formaldehyde-based resins. As these materials garnered attention, governments and agencies applied pressure to improve material quality.
"Formaldehyde is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer and the State of California as a known human carcinogen," highlights Cofran. "[It's] a volatile organic compound (VOC) and an irritant at higher exposures."
In addition to irritation and sensitization, he notes that it also acts as an asthma trigger. Furthermore, long-term exposure is associated with nasal cancers and leukemia. Installers are specifically affected, but homeowners can be, too.
Knauf’s approach replaces traditional binders with plant-based chemistry.
"Performance+ insulation products use glass fibers held together with Knauf’s patented ECOSE® Technology — a plant-based, bio-derived binder that replaces traditional phenol-formaldehyde (PF) binders," describes Cofran. “ECOSE® delivers sustainability and handling advantages: lower embodied carbon in manufacturing, lower VOC emissions, and noticeably less dust and odor during handling.”
It’s a change worth your investment.
Easier DIY, Healthier Install
Easier and healthier leads with many consumers and builders. "Nine out of 10 homes in the U.S. are underinsulated," shared Cofran. “Upgrading or adding the correct R-value improves thermal comfort (fewer cold spots, more stable indoor temps) and lowers energy bills.”
The process of installing insulation isn’t complicated, especially when you're updating insulation around your pipes and water heater, but working with cleaner materials is a win-win for all parties involved.
"For homeowners who install insulation themselves, formaldehyde-free formulations mean easier handling, reduced risk of irritation during cutting and fitting, and lower VOC exposure during and immediately after installation," highlights Cofran. “Combined with low-dust product formulations, this can make the install experience more comfortable.”
That difference shows up for homeowners. Rooms that finally stay warm in winter. Cooler upstairs bedrooms in summer. Fewer drafts. It also extends to your water systems: insulating pipes and tanks helps water stay hot longer and reduces how often your heater runs.
Certifications That Mean Something
Labels and certifications are meaningful, but they can be confusing, so let's break it down.
"Asthma & Allergy Friendly® is a science-driven certification developed by Allergy Standards Ltd. in partnership with the Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA)," explains Cofran.
Insulation materials are independently tested to achieve certification. He explains that it tests for low particle release, non-toxic components, absence of prohibited chemicals, and low potential to support mold growth.
He adds, "Verified Healthier Air™ is a complementary verification program that assesses whether a product contributes to healthier indoor air (for example by not introducing pollutants or particulates)."
Together these marks are a meaningful signal for health-conscious homeowners and individuals navigating asthma and allergies.
Eco Trends are Industry-Wide
Keep watching the shift toward eco-friendly, cleaner materials across the insulation industry. Brands, manufacturers, and builders alike have their eye to materials that benefit crews and homeowners without sacrificing thermal resistance.
Wool insulation is another product gaining traction, especially for moisture control and fire resistance. And spray foam, though sometimes cost-prohibitive in the short-term, is proven to reduce energy costs.
How Do I Pick the Right Thickness or R-Value?
Choosing the right R-Value is a detail that varies by region.
“For wall and attic R-values, check local climate zone recommendations (e.g., DOE/IECC climate zone tables) and confirm product labeled R-values (batts are sold labeled by R-value and thickness). You can also use Knauf’s free online calculator.”
For pipes and tanks, full coverage matters more than thickness. Seal gaps and joints, and keep insulation dry to maintain its performance.
Can insulation help noise reduction?
Many homeowners focus on insulation for temperature control, but high-quality insulation can also help with sound dampening.
Fiberglass and mineral wool options, especially those with denser formulations, absorb airborne and structural noise between rooms and floors... something especially valuable in urban areas or multi-story homes.
