Wool ideal for house insulation

THE construction industry and individuals should consider using sheep wool to insulate new houses, the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association has suggested.

Malcolm Thompson, president, said sheep wool is a natural insulator. As housing insulation, it keeps heat in and reduces condensation, resulting in lower fuel bills. Wool is also an environmentally friendly, sustainable and natural product.

“Today as a result of the increase in the use of man-made fibres in clothing, there is a declining market for wool. Sheep wool is viewed more as a by-product of the industry, (the wool paying for the cost of shearing), than a product in itself. But with the increase in eco awareness, the recent fuel crisis and the growing popularity of timber housing in Ireland, I see an opportunity for farmers to provide more wool to the building trade as an insulation product.”