Timber frame construction is an efficient and flexible build method. Compared to traditional masonry, it can accommodate more timber frame insulation in between the wooden studs, as in a cavity. 

A continuous layer on the outside provides extra performance, while a layer on the inside gives additional room for electrical wiring. This helps create safe, efficient and positive living and working environments.     

Discover the applications, benefits and all the timber frame wall insulation details you need on this page.

Timber Frame Insulation Products

Why do we need timber frame insulation?

Timber frames filled with insulation generally offer better thermal performance than masonry walls of the same total thickness1. However, their reduced mass and wood properties mean they need the right material to provide strong fire protection and acoustic performance. ROCKWOOL timber frame wall insulation delivers fire resilience and acoustic capabilities, alongside its thermal resistance qualities2.

Timber frame house insulation is well suited for use in timber frame buildings with its quick and easy fitting and dimensional stability. It will adjust to the small movements of the construction and stay in place for a lifetime. 

 

Benefits of ROCKWOOL products include:

  • Fire resilience
  • Sound absorption
  • Thermal resistance
  • Flexible application
  • Water repellent

 

Using mineral wool insulation, insulated external timber frame walls will typically provide better insulation performance than masonry walls of a similar thickness.

Source: https://mima.info/applications/walls/timber-frame-wall-insulation/

Calculator and savings

The amount of insulation required will depend on the size and dimensions of the timber frame construction. With thermal requirements mostly determining the insulation thickness required, use a U-value calculator or contact our local technical team about the best product to use. 

In most cases, it will be a combination of full fill insulation between the wooden frame with a layer on the in or outside.

Use our ROCKWOOL U-Value calculator to determine the thermal performance of the building’s external walls.

Insulating a timber frame wall is a form of external/cavity wall insulation and could lead to savings of up to the following: 

Source: Energy Saving Trust 

Property type

Energy bill savings (£/year)

Detached

435

Semi-detached

260

Mid terrace

160

Bungalow

175

Flat

120

Timber Frame Construction
The low carbon footprint of ROCKWOOL timber frame products is a perfect match with that of the wooden structure. The construction is easily dismantled at the end of its lifecycle, adding to the reduction of our environmental footprint.

Roger Peeters

ROCKWOOL Group Product Manager

Case studies

The problem

F. Socciarelli School in Italy required an efficient, safe and aesthetically pleasing extension. It needed to be sustainable, quick to build and meet the school’s green aims.

The solution

Using a laminated wood and ‘post and beam’ frame system, a façade was constructed with Rockpanel to reduce heat loss, energy consumption and allow breathability. The colours and wood complement the school’s design – and ROCKWOOL solutions are designed to prevent the spread of fire.

The results

F. Socciarelli School benefits from A4 energy performance – making the school nearly zero-energy efficient. Excellent safety and fire resilience add to the building’s success.

Case Study, F. Socciarelli School
We have invested not only for the future but for the present of our children too. To give them a safe place to study, play and live is a matter of pride for us. The school has an excellent level of thermal and acoustic comfort. We also have to recognise that we completed the project in less than 100 days.

Francesco Subissati

Legal Representative at Subissati Srl
To be updated
PDF
11.2 MB

The ROCKWOOL Red Book

To be updated
PDF
3.1 MB

Timber Frame Slab Datasheet

To be updated
PDF
1.8 MB

Thermal Timber Frame Slab Datasheet

Download our guides

Financial support

Check the Energy Savings Trust website to see whether there are any financial support schemes available for timber frame wall insulation.

Energy Efficiency, Key, Keyboard, Button

FAQs

What is the best insulation for a timber frame house?