Is There an Alternative to Rockwool?

When it comes to acoustic and thermal insulation, Rockwool has long been one of the most trusted names in construction. Its mineral wool slabs are used in walls, ceilings, and floors across the UK — valued for their excellent sound absorption, fire safety, and durability. But with rising material costs, many builders and homeowners are asking the same question: is there an alternative to Rockwool?

Fortunately, several materials now offer similar acoustic performance at a more competitive price point. Whether you’re soundproofing a partition wall, upgrading floor insulation, or improving the acoustics of a home office or studio, there are reliable alternatives worth considering.

Why Rockwool Remains a Market Leader

Products like Rockwool RWA45 100 mm and Rockwool Flexi Slab 140 mm are benchmark products for professional builders. Made from natural volcanic rock spun into fine mineral fibres, they provide outstanding acoustic insulation by trapping and dissipating sound waves. Their high density — typically around 45 kg/m³ — makes them ideal for internal partitions, floors, and ceiling voids.

Rockwool’s A1 non-combustible fire rating and moisture-resistant structure also make it one of the safest and most stable insulation options on the market. It’s widely specified in both residential and commercial projects where acoustic comfort and fire safety are essential.

When to Consider Alternatives to Rockwool

While Rockwool delivers excellent performance, it’s not always the most cost-effective choice. Builders and specifiers may look for alternatives when:

• Working to tight budgets – Affordable mineral wool rolls can offer comparable acoustic performance at a lower cost per m².
• Needing flexible materials – Some projects require insulation that easily fits irregular cavities or timber frames.
• Prioritising quick installation – Lighter rolls are easier to handle on-site and can speed up fitting in partition systems.
• Pursuing sustainable choices – Environmentally friendly production and recyclable materials are increasingly important for new builds.

ODE Acoustic Partition Roll — A Cost-Effective Alternative

One of the best value alternatives to Rockwool on the market today is the ODE Acoustic Partition Roll (APR). Manufactured using high-density glass mineral wool, ODE APR is designed specifically for sound insulation in metal and timber stud walls, floors, and ceiling systems. It offers excellent acoustic performance while remaining lightweight, flexible, and easy to install.

Like Rockwool RWA45, ODE Acoustic Partition Roll absorbs airborne sound to reduce noise transmission between rooms. It also provides additional thermal performance, helping to create quieter and more energy-efficient interiors. With a density of around 45 kg/m³, it’s engineered to perform in line with Approved Document E requirements for sound insulation in residential and commercial buildings.

One of the biggest advantages of ODE APR is cost efficiency — it delivers the same acoustic performance as premium brands but at a significantly lower price point, making it ideal for larger projects or developers working to budget constraints. It also comes in long roll formats, reducing joint gaps and speeding up installation time.

Performance Comparison: Rockwool vs ODE Acoustic Partition Roll

Both Rockwool and ODE products use a fibrous, open-cell mineral structure to trap and dampen sound energy. However, ODE APR’s roll form gives it a flexibility advantage — it can be quickly unrolled and cut to fit stud bays without the need for precise slab trimming.

Key differences include:

• Format: Rockwool slabs are rigid; ODE APR comes in flexible rolls for faster fitting.
• Cost: ODE APR is typically 10–20 % more affordable per m².
• Handling: ODE’s lightweight structure makes it easier to transport and install overhead or in tight spaces.
• Performance: Both achieve similar acoustic absorption values when correctly installed in partition or floor assemblies.

For many contractors, the choice comes down to budget and convenience. If you require the highest possible density for specialist acoustic environments, Rockwool RWA45 100 mm remains a gold standard. But if you need strong performance at a lower cost, ODE Acoustic Partition Roll is an outstanding alternative.

Natural and Recycled Acoustic Insulation Options

In addition to mineral wool products, a growing number of sustainable acoustic materials are now available. Natural fibre insulations made from sheep’s wool, hemp, and recycled textiles are ideal for eco-builds and renovation projects where sustainability and comfort are priorities.

These materials are breathable, non-irritant, and fully recyclable at the end of their life. While they generally offer slightly lower density than mineral wools, they still deliver excellent sound absorption in domestic applications such as bedrooms, home offices, or media rooms.

Which Acoustic Insulation Should You Choose?

If you’re seeking the balance of acoustic performance, fire safety, and affordability, consider pairing products strategically:

• For premium sound and fire resistance — choose Rockwool RWA45 100 mm or Rockwool Flexi Slab 140 mm.
• For excellent value and easy installation — opt for ODE Acoustic Partition Roll, a practical and cost-effective alternative with comparable acoustic properties.
  

At Cut Price Insulation, we supply a wide range of Rockwool and ODE Acoustic Partition Roll products, all available for next-day delivery and free shipping on qualifying orders. Whatever your acoustic needs — from residential soundproofing to commercial partitioning — you’ll find reliable, affordable solutions that help you build quieter, more comfortable spaces.