Rock insulation reduces sound

Rock insulation reduces sound

An insulation made from rocks is being touted not only for its thermal insulation abilities, but also its ability to reduce sound and resist fire.

Roxul Inc.’s stone wool insulation is made from fibers created from molten rock. The insulation can’t absorb water, so it won’t rot, lose R-value when it gets wet or promote the growth of mold, mildew or bacteria.

The product comes in two forms: Roxul ComfortBatt for exterior walls and Roxul Safe’n’Sound, an acoustical insulation for interior walls. ComfortBatt has an R-value of 15 for 2-by-4 construction and 23 for 2-by-6 construction.

Suggested retail prices are $30 to $35 a bag. A bag of insulation covers from 37.5 square feet to 59.7 square feet, depending on the product.

Book of projects

Theresa Gonzalez and Nicole Smith are out to make even cinder block scintillating.

The two have teamed up on “Dorm Decor,” a book of projects designed to inspire crafty college students to make over their space.

“Dorm Decor” is published by Chronicle Books and sells for $19.95.

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