| Factor | Score |
|---|---|
| Comfort & Health | 5/10 |
| Efficiency | 5/10 |
| Longevity | 2/10 |
| Social Equity | 3/10 |
| Carbon | 4/10 |
Good Building Score: 19
Recommendation: Avoid
Fiberglass batts were patented in 1936, the kraft paper faced versions were an attempt at greater efficiency and moisture management. The positive is that this started the path of increased building performance. Unfortunately the vapor profile was off compared with the natural materials it attempted to copy and the install process has been most often botched for nearly 100 years now.
When buildings had little insulation the risks were low as walls baked themselves dry. At today’s code minimum insulation levels, the kraft facing causes more rot and mold failures than benefits. This should have been a short-term learning experience. Sadly, this material combo is still available today.
Our advice; switch to the Micro Mold Resistant Wall if you have the budget. If you have to use fiberglass skip the kraft facing and use Knauf Eco Batts to avoid the chemicals.