Havelock Wool's Sustainable Journey from Nature's Blueprint to Healthy Living Spaces
By, Sabrina Aguilar
In a world where our choices deeply impact the environment and our well-being, creating a home that is both sustainable and healthy has become a priority for many homeowners. In a past episode of Blooming—a Healthy Home by Design, we had the privilege of conversing with Philip Walsh, Head of Marketing at Havelock Wool. In this enlightening dialogue, we explored the intricacies of home insulation and delved into the innovative and sustainable solutions introduced by Havelock Wool. As we revisit this illuminating conversation, we invite you to rediscover the profound impact of redefining how we conceive and create healthier living spaces, particularly in the realm of insulation, for fostering a non-toxic and eco-friendly living environment.
Thousands of years ago, wool was recognized for its insulation properties. However, Havelock Wool, a company established around ten years ago by Andrew Legge, took this age-old idea and brought it into the modern era. With a keen understanding of New Zealand's vibrant wool industry, Legge saw an opportunity to bridge the gap in the insulation market in the US and North America. The vision was clear — to provide insulation that is not only high-performing but also healthy and sustainable.
Adaptable Insulation for Changing Environments
While the R-value is a critical measure of insulation, (Havelock Wool comes in at an impressive R-Value PER INCH of 3.6 & 4.3 for Blown-in products) Havelock Wool encourages a broader perspective. Insulation must adapt to the changing dynamics of a wall cavity.
In simple terms, the R-value is a measure that indicates how effective an insulation material is at resisting heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation's ability to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. It's like a thermal resistance score – the higher, the better. Unlike fiberglass insulation, which loses R-value when wet, wool insulation sustains its performance throughout its lifespan. Its ability to manage moisture prevents issues like condensation and mold, contributing to a healthier home environment.
Wool: Nature's Insulator and Sustainable Building Block
Wool, a dynamically evolving fiber, boasts impressive capabilities. It effectively manages moisture, dries quickly, and provides exceptional warmth while allowing for breathability. These innate qualities make wool an ideal insulation material. The emphasis at Havelock Wool is on education — empowering homeowners and builders to make informed decisions about the materials shaping their living spaces. They believe nature does it best and they are on a mission to give consumers a more intelligent option when it comes to choosing the right insulation.
Sustainability Beyond The Immediate
The conversation delves into the longevity of wool insulation. Beyond its immediate environmental benefits, wool insulation from Havelock Wool stands the test of time. This aspect justifies its premium, drawing parallels to the early skepticism surrounding organic products. Much like choosing organic for its lasting impact, homeowners are increasingly recognizing the value of investing in insulation that has performed consistently over the years.
Reflecting on how homes were built a century ago, the conversation touches on the evolution of construction materials. In a world now saturated with a variety of man-made products, the consequences, including the "sick building syndrome," are becoming evident. Havelock Wool advocates for a different approach — promoting wool insulation as a sustainable and healthy alternative to contribute to the well-being of both occupants and the planet.
As we contemplate the evolution of home construction over the past century, the significance of materials becomes apparent. Modern homes, inundated with a myriad of man-made products, face challenges such as the "sick building syndrome." Havelock Wool envisions a different path, promoting wool insulation as a sustainable and healthy alternative. Whether outfitting a small van or a spacious home, the message is clear — informed decisions about materials contribute to the well-being of both occupants and the planet.
By, Sabrina Aguilar
In-house writer and
Marketing Strategist for WellnessRE Magazine
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