La fibre de bois comme isolant: avantages et inconvénients

Wood Fibre Insulation: Pros and Cons

The construction industry is constantly evolving, especially when it comes to insulation. In recent years, more and more homeowners have been renovating in order to reduce their energy bills.


Fiberglass insulation has long been the top choice in Quebec and across Canada. Nowadays, people are turning to more eco-friendly options like rock wool, coconut fiber, and wood fiber. The latter—made from wood chips or residues—is gaining popularity among contractors for its exceptional insulating performance.


Wood fiber is sold in thick boards or panels. The good news is we no longer need to import it, as it’s now produced right here in Quebec. Is it the insulation of the future for our homes? Quite possibly. But before jumping to conclusions, let’s take a closer look at the advantages and drawbacks of wood fiber insulation.

Advantages of Wood Fibre Insulation


  • Optimal Insulation
  • Wood fiber has excellent insulating properties. It effectively retains heat, resists mold and condensation, and provides good soundproofing thanks to its thermal properties.


  • Environmentally Friendly
  • One of wood fiber’s biggest strengths is its eco-friendliness. Sourced directly from our forests, it’s a natural and abundant resource that helps reduce both our environmental footprint and manufacturing costs. Plus, wood inherently has insulating properties and is recyclable. Its manufacturing process, which typically doesn’t require water, further demonstrates a commitment to protecting the environment.


  • Safe
  • Wood is a breathable material. The tiny air pockets in its fibres allow a home to “breathe”, ensuring optimal indoor air quality. This characteristic also comes with another major benefit: unlike some other insulation materials, wood fiber doesn’t give off toxic smoke in a fire, making your home safer.


  • Versatility
  • Wood fiber can be installed just about anywhere in the house—roofs, walls, attics, and floors. It’s particularly well suited to tight spaces, such as between floors, where other types of insulation can be harder to install.


    Drawbacks of Wood Fiber Insulation


  • Dust Emissions 
  • Handling wood fiber panels can release irritating dust. It’s important to wear proper protective equipment during installation and thoroughly clean the area afterward.


  • Moisture Sensitivity
  • Like other insulation materials, wood fiber is vulnerable to moisture. In some cases, a vapor barrier may be required to prevent condensation.

    The Verdict?


    All things considered, wood fiber is an excellent insulation choice despite a few limitations. Its impressive thermal and acoustic performance more than makes up for any drawbacks. We recommend GUTEX Multitherm® T&G rigid wood fiber panels, which are known for their exceptional quality. As with any renovation project, we encourage you to consult one of our qualified professionals before getting started. Contact us for more information or to request a personalized quote!


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