Overview of Isover and Its Global Reach

Isover, established in 1937, has built a strong reputation over more than 85 years in the insulation industry.

As part of the Saint-Gobain Group, a global leader in construction materials, Isover focuses on mineral wool insulation for thermal, acoustic, and fire protection in buildings and technical applications.

With 62 production sites across 27 countries, the company boasts a significant global presence. Its workforce of approximately 10,000 employees operates in over 39 countries, including a facility in Runcorn, Cheshire, which utilises 100% renewable electricity.

Isover’s extensive reach enables it to offer tailored solutions for various markets such as construction, transportation, and industrial sectors, addressing local needs with innovative, sustainable products. The company’s global distribution network ensures efficient delivery and support worldwide.

This global presence positions Isover as a trusted name in insulation across the UK and beyond.

Types of Insulation Materials Offered by Isover

Isover offers a wide range of insulation materials designed to meet various building and industrial needs in the UK. One of their primary products is glass wool insulation, made from sand and recycled glass, which provides effective thermal comfort along with environmental benefits. Glass wool's manufacturing process involves melting raw materials at high temperatures and spinning them into fine fibers, creating a lightweight and versatile insulation material. It's available in rolls or slabs for diverse applications and is resistant to moisture, rot, and pests, ensuring durability. Stone wool insulation is another option, crafted from natural stone, offering high strength and fire resistance, making it ideal for industrial settings and harsh conditions. Isover also provides marine and offshore insulation facings, including fire-resistant and reflective varieties, suitable for challenging environments. Their insulation rolls, made from recycled glass, are easy to install and offer both thermal and acoustic benefits. Each material is designed to meet specific project needs while emphasising sustainability.

Thermal Performance and Energy Efficiency Benefits

Isover insulation products boast a low thermal conductivity of 0.044 W/mK, which effectively reduces heat transfer through walls and roofs.

This exceptional thermal efficiency can result in considerable energy savings by minimising heat loss during winter and heat gain in summer.

Consequently, buildings remain cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, leading to lower energy bills and promoting environmental sustainability in the UK.

Thermal Conductivity Advantages

Because thermal conductivity directly affects how effectively insulation prevents heat transfer, materials with low thermal conductivity offer significant advantages in energy efficiency.

Isover insulation typically boasts a thermal conductivity value of around 0.039 W/mK, which means it effectively restricts heat flow. This low value aids in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures and reduces the effort required for heating or cooling.

Furthermore, consistent performance across a broad temperature range ensures that the insulation remains dependable in various climates throughout the UK. Isover’s high-quality mineral wool fibres enhance this efficiency, promoting better energy utilisation.

These features make Isover products ideal for improving thermal performance, contributing to more sustainable buildings and lower energy bills.

• Reduces heat loss and gain
• Maintains consistent insulation across different temperatures
• Supports energy-efficient building practices
• Improves overall thermal comfort

Energy Savings Impact

Effective insulation leads to significant energy savings by reducing the amount of heat lost in winter and gained in summer. It minimises the need for large heating and cooling systems, resulting in lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. For instance, industrial insulation can cut energy use by 14 Mtoe annually, which is equivalent to powering 10 million households. Improved thermal performance also helps meet UK climate targets, as CO2 emissions decrease by 40 Mt each year.

Outcome	Impact	Benefit
Reduced energy use	Less heat loss and gain	Lower utility bills
Cost savings	Short payback periods	Quick return on investment
Environmental impact	Less CO2 emissions	Supports sustainability goals
Increased efficiency	Better performance of systems	More reliable operations

Fire Safety and Passive Fire Protection Features

Fire safety is a critical aspect of building design, and insulation materials play a key role in passive fire protection.

Isover insulation utilises non-combustible mineral wool with high fire resistance ratings, helping to prevent the spread of fire and smoke. It maintains structural integrity during fires lasting up to 120 minutes, thereby protecting essential systems and occupants.

The materials emit minimal smoke or flaming droplets, reducing the release of toxic gases and hazards.

Additionally, Isover offers products like the U Protect series, which are certified for high fire performance, including the containment of fire and smoke in ducts. Isover insulation materials meet fire safety standards such as Euroclass B-s3, d0 and UL94 V-0, HF 1, ensuring reliable performance in fire scenarios.

These solutions are lightweight and easy to install, fitting seamlessly with existing building systems.

They also aid in limiting heat transfer and the risks of fire spreading through service penetrations, creating safer environments for everyone.

Environmental Commitment and Sustainability Initiatives

Isover is committed to reducing its environmental impact through a wide range of sustainability initiatives.

The company aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, guided by a detailed Sustainability Roadmap with milestones planned through 2025. They focus on lowering emissions, with targets to cut 33% of Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 2030, and are working on reducing Scope 3 emissions by 16%. The company also has a focus on continuous progress towards sustainability goals, ensuring ongoing improvements. Production sites are optimised to decrease carbon emissions by 20% and energy use by 15% between 2010 and 2025.

Isover also emphasises circular economy efforts, such as using recycled materials and redesigning packaging for recyclability.

Additionally, investments in renewable energy and waste reduction initiatives demonstrate their dedication to sustainable practices, helping to protect natural resources for future generations in the UK.

Installation Convenience and Product Certifications

Isover insulation products are designed for easy installation, often employing mechanical fixing systems that save time and reduce complexity.

They also comply with stringent industry standards, with certifications such as Euroclass A1 that ensure fire safety and environmental compliance.

Furthermore, Isover upholds quality management systems to verify consistent product performance and reliability.

Effortless Installation Features

Installing insulation can be a challenging task, but innovative features make the process much easier. Isover insulation's lightweight glass mineral wool and batts reduce installer fatigue and allow for quick handling. The flexibility of rolls and slabs makes friction fitting between studs, joists, or pipes straightforward, often eliminating the need for adhesives or fasteners. Products like ULTIMATE™ U TECH provide extra flexibility, helping fit around irregular shapes more easily. These lightweight materials speed up installation, saving time and lowering costs. Additionally, pre-cut and customisable sizes allow installers to adapt to unique spaces without the need for complex cutting. These design features are certified to meet strict standards, ensuring safety and compliance. Clear technical guides, safety instructions, and certification standards ensure the process is safe, compliant, and efficient. Isover’s focus on ease makes insulation installation accessible to all, fostering a sense of community and support in the UK.

Compliance With Standards

Ensuring that insulation products meet multiple standards and certifications is essential for safety, quality, and compliance.

Isover products comply with ISO 9001, which guarantees consistent manufacturing quality, and are certified by organisations such as DNV GL, Bureau Veritas, and Lloyd’s Register. They meet stringent IMO standards for maritime safety, including fire safety and toxicity limits.

European norms are satisfied through CE marking and EUCEB certification, confirming product safety and environmental responsibility. Isover products also meet international ASTM and EN standards, covering safety, performance, and materials.

They comply with UK thermal regulations, including Part L and Section 6, ensuring energy efficiency.

With fire safety certifications like Euroclass A1 and maritime approvals, Isover products support safe, reliable, and environmentally responsible building and marine applications.

Quality Management Systems

Quality management systems play an essential role in ensuring that insulation products meet high standards of performance and safety. Isover operates under strict standards such as ISO 9001, which guarantees consistent quality across all products. Their products also comply with EN 13950 and BS EN 13162 standards, ensuring they meet European specifications. The CE mark demonstrates that the products are produced in accordance with safety and performance regulations. Furthermore, Isover’s environmental efforts are confirmed through ISO 14001:2015 certification, highlighting their commitment to sustainability. Independent third-party accreditations like VDI 2055 further validate their quality and thermal performance. These measures help build trust and foster a sense of belonging among customers who rely on Isover’s dedication to delivering safe and effective insulation solutions. ISO 9001 guarantees consistent quality control and is recognized worldwide as a leading quality assurance standard. CE marking confirms safety and performance. ISO 14001 showcases sustainability efforts. Third-party accreditations validate quality.

Applications of Isover Insulation in Building Projects

Isover insulation is extensively utilised in various building projects across the UK due to its adaptable applications in enhancing energy efficiency, safety, and comfort.

It provides highly effective thermal insulation for walls, roofs, lofts, and floors in both residential and commercial spaces. By reducing heat loss, Isover helps to lower heating and cooling costs, making buildings more energy-efficient.

It's suitable for different construction types, such as timber frames, masonry, and metal studs, and can be employed in both new builds and retrofit projects.

Furthermore, Isover mineral wool enhances soundproofing in multi-family dwellings, offices, and schools, fostering quieter environments.

Its non-combustible material also offers fire protection, helping to contain fire spread and enhancing occupant safety. The non-combustible properties of Isover mineral wool meet strict fire safety standards, providing peace of mind for building occupants.

These applications make Isover a reliable choice for building projects that prioritise comfort, safety, and sustainability in the UK.

Innovations and Future Developments in Isover Products

Innovations and future developments in Isover products focus on enhancing insulation to be more effective, sustainable, and easier to install.

Isover continuously refines its materials by utilising biosourced binders, making products not only environmentally friendly but also simpler to handle. These innovations significantly improve energy efficiency, helping to reduce energy consumption in buildings and industrial systems across the UK. Isover ULTIMATE utilizes proprietary technology to improve production processes and product performance. They're also designed to comply with evolving safety and environmental standards, ensuring that products are safer and more eco-friendly. Future efforts will place a strong emphasis on sustainability, lighter materials, and tailored solutions that meet specific customer needs.

Advances in marine insulation, such as lighter, flexible, and environmentally compliant options, further demonstrate Isover’s dedication to these principles. These developments support industry standards, promote safety, and advance more sustainable practices for a better future.

• Use of biosourced binders for sustainability
• Lighter, more efficient insulation materials
• Improved safety and environmental compliance
• Tailored solutions for specific needs

Choosing the Right Isover Insulation for Your Needs

How do you choose the right Isover insulation for your project?

First, consider the application. Isover offers products suitable for various needs, such as HVAC, marine, or industrial insulation.

Next, think about thermal performance; different thicknesses, such as 100mm, 150mm, or 200mm, provide varying levels of insulation.

Facing options also matter—ALU1 offers moisture resistance, while G220 or G120 facings provide fire resistance.

For environments requiring soundproofing, Isover’s acoustic rolls are particularly effective.

The choice depends on your specific requirements, including energy efficiency and durability.

Utilise Isover’s comparison tools and technical support to make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Isover offers a comprehensive range of insulation products that enhance energy efficiency, ensure fire safety, and promote sustainability. Their innovations and certifications facilitate straightforward installation for various building projects. With a global presence, Isover continues to develop new solutions to meet the evolving needs of the UK market. Choosing the right insulation is essential for achieving improved thermal performance and environmental responsibility. Overall, Isover’s products provide reliable, effective, and eco-friendly options for both new and existing buildings throughout the UK.