Insulation ~ Cork

You knew there was a use for cork except for sealing wine bottles…

Description
Cork is a natural and effective insulator. One disadvantage for the UK builder is the need to import cork from countries with the climate to grow it such as Portugal and other Mediterranean countries (China and India are now getting in on the act). Cork is fire-retardant, resists mold and is non-toxic.

Features

• Biodegradable.
• Renewable.
• Low embodied energy.
• Excellent acoustic insulation.
• Low impact production – few chemical additives.
• Self-supporting. Cork boards do not slump and therefore maintain their structure and insulating properties over time.

Performance
Cork boards at 120 kgs/m2 have a thermal conductivity or K value of 0.04 W/m.K.
(Watts per meter Kelvin ~ a lower value is a better result)

Cost
As production is still relatively small scale, cost is relatively high – I guess! I’m currently unable to get UK prices for Cork insulation – anyone able to advise?

…if only we could collect our wine bottle corks and make our own…