Expanded polystyrene (EPS)

2.50

3.9

Resistant to fire and moisture. Easy to install.

In the event of a fire, can release toxic fumes.

Extruded polystyrene (XPS)

3

3.6

Resistant against humidity. Easy to install.

Not fire-resistant. Can release toxic fumes in the event of a fire.

Closed-cell polyurethane spray foam

2.50

3.2 to 5

Resistant to air and water vapour.

Not fire-resistant. Complex installation

Open-cell polyurethane foam

2

3.2 to 5

Resistant to air

Not resistant against water vapour. Does not resist fire.

Polyisocyanurate(PIR)

1.40

6

Resistant to flames and water vapour

Loses its insulating properties when in direct contact with cold

Ecobill (polystyrene beads)

1.49

4.4

Injected without need for demolition. Allows walls to breathe and doesn’t foster mould growth. Clean (dust and odour free). Permeable to water and air. Recyclable. Easy installation.

Like expanded polystyrene, can discharge toxic fumes in the event of a fire.

Soy soil based polyurethane

1.5

6

Air and water vapour resistant. Capacity for high expansion.

Application requires protection.

Rockwool

1.0

2.8 to 4.5

Resistant to moisture and fire. Delivers soundproofing qualities. Easy to install.

May contain traces of formaldehyde.

Fiberglass

0.85

3.0 to 4.5

Easy to install. Resists fire.

Sensitive to water. May contain traces of formaldehyde.

Cellular glass

3.5

2.6

Waterproof with air and vapour barrier. Flame resistant. Long life cycle. Soundproofing properties.

Lower grade of insulation.

Cellulose

0.85**

3.6

Resistant to flames, mould and corrosion. Delivers soundproofing qualities.

Complex installation process. Very sensitive to moisture. **Requires more thickness (does not majorly impact cost).

Hemp

2.5

3.7

Resistant to flames, bacteria, insects, and fungi. Soundproofing properties.

None

Straw

3***

2

Resists fire a somewhat humidity.

***Requires a thickness of at least 14 inches. Price is to build not to renovate.

Cotton

2.50

3.8

Resists flames. Soundproofing properties.

Sensitive to moisture.

Cork

0.55****

3.7

Long lifespan. Resists water, fire, insects and rodents. Offers good sound insulation.

****Requires a thickness of 8 to 12 inches.