Product Comparison Compare Wool to Synthetics
Whether you’re building to LEED Platinum standards, or simply trying to reduce your carbon footprint on your home remodel, Oregon Shepherd’s blown-in wool or wool batting products will help keep your project clean and green. To prove it, we’ve compiled this handy comparison chart showing the benefits of all natural wool over traditional synthetics/fiberglass:
| PROPERTIES | OREGON SHEPHERD | VS. SYNTHETIC/FIBERGLASS |
| Recyclable | Yes | Not currently; can be reused, but there are no facilities for recycling |
| Renewable | Yes | No (but some brands use portions of recycled glass) |
| Low embodied energy | Yes | No |
| Safe to install | Yes | Requires protective clothing |
| Biodegradable | Yes | No |
| High natural content | Yes | No |
| Emissions | None | Manufacturing process can emit chlorides and fluorides, as well as various particulates and solvents; burning insulation emits toxic fumes |
| Breathes | Yes | No |
| Condensation | Wool actively absorbs and desorbs moisture, preventing condensation | Synthetic fibers do not absorb/desorb moisture. |
| Non-combustible | Yes | Yes, but may emit harmful gases at high temperatures |
| Appraised | Yes | Yes (various levels of approval depending on product) |
| Fire resistant | Yes | Yes, but relies on toxic petrochemical additives |
| Pest resistant | Yes | Yes, but relies on toxic petrochemical additives
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