America's most common insulation vs. America's healthiest. See why contractors and homeowners are making the switch.
🏆 WINNER
Superior in 7 of 8 categories. The clear upgrade from fiberglass.
RUNNER UP
Only advantage is upfront cost. You get what you pay for — and less over time.
Zero VOCs, naturally antibacterial. Improves indoor air quality. Safe to handle without protective equipment.
Contains microscopic glass fibers that cause skin, eye, and lung irritation. Classified as a possible carcinogen by IARC. Requires PPE for installation.
Class A fire rating. Does not burn — chars slowly. Produces no toxic fumes when exposed to flame.
Non-combustible glass fibers but paper/foil backing burns easily. Melts at high temperatures. Does not prevent fire spread through walls.
Naturally mold-resistant (pH 11+). Breathes and regulates humidity. Prevents condensation buildup.
Absorbs and retains moisture. Creates perfect environment for mold growth. Loses all insulating value when wet.
Carbon negative. Made from renewable hemp + lime. Biodegradable. Sequesters CO₂.
Energy-intensive manufacturing (melting glass at 2,500°F). Non-biodegradable. Contains formaldehyde binders in some products.
R-3.5/inch with exceptional thermal mass. Stores and releases heat slowly — keeps homes comfortable with less HVAC.
R-3.1-3.7/inch. No thermal mass. Temperature swings require more HVAC cycling. Settles over time reducing performance.
100+ year lifespan. Strengthens over time. Zero maintenance.
20-30 year effective lifespan. Settles, compresses, and degrades. Rodents and pests nest in it.
Higher initial investment ($3.50-5.00/sq ft installed).
Low upfront cost ($0.50-1.50/sq ft installed). Most affordable option on the market.
Naturally pest-resistant. Lime content deters rodents, insects, and termites.
Rodents, insects, and birds commonly nest in fiberglass. No natural pest deterrent properties.
Stop breathing glass fibers. Start breathing clean air. Get a free GaiaCrete® consultation.
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