Energy Source Builder
Less Itch and Recycled, Too
Johns Manville has introduced a new wrapper for an old material. Fiberglass insulation under the new ComfortTherm brand is wrapped in plastic to reduce irritating dust. The product appears targeted mainly at the do-it-yourself market, but may eventually be available through trade channels as well. Currently, the encapsulated batts are available only in R-11, R-13 and R-15.
The plastic facing and reinforced flanges are more tear-resistant than the familiar kraft paper. The facing is also more effective at retarding water vapor movement than coated kraft paper. It carries a Class A fire rating, allowing it to be left uncovered in garages, crawlspaces and other unfinished areas, if building codes permit.
Manville is unique among makers of fiberglass insulation because the recycled glass content of their products is certified by Scientific Certification Systems, Inc., an independent product certifying organization. According to SCS, post-consumer glass comprises at least 18 percent of the fiber in Manville's products. Pre-consumer industrial waste makes up another 7 percent for 25 percent total recycled content. This certification applies to Manville's Goldline brand insulation, too. According to Manville, a typical home insulated with their product would contain remelted glass from 600 recycled beverage containers.
Contact: Johns Manville
This article appeared in Energy Source Builder #41 October 1995 |
