Glass wool is widely used in building insulation, HVAC, and industrial equipment insulation. However, improper selection, construction, or maintenance can easily lead to several typical problems. The following systematically explains these common problems from the perspectives of material performance, construction, and usage environment.

One of the most common problems with glass wool is its decreased insulation performance after becoming damp. Glass wool is a porous fiber material, and its insulation principle relies on an internal static air layer. If moisture-proofing measures are inadequate during transportation, construction, or use, moisture can penetrate the fiber structure, significantly increasing the thermal conductivity and resulting in a marked decrease in insulation performance. Simultaneously, the increased weight of damp glass wool can cause sagging and deformation, affecting the overall structural stability.

The second common problem is fiber shedding and dust. During cutting, installation, or subsequent maintenance, glass wool easily generates fine fibers and dust. This not only affects the construction environment but can also irritate the skin and respiratory tract of construction workers. Without protective measures, it can easily cause skin itching, eye discomfort, and other problems. This is also one of the important reasons why the application of glass wool in high-cleanliness environments is limited. Third, limited compressive and impact resistance is a typical problem with glass wool. Glass wool has a relatively loose overall structure and low mechanical strength, making it prone to compression and deformation due to pressure or impact in areas such as ducts, equipment outer sheaths, or areas frequently touched by personnel. Once the thickness is compressed, the actual insulation performance decreases, potentially requiring replacement or reinforcement after long-term use.

Fourth, aging and settlement issues after long-term use cannot be ignored. In vertical installations or suspended ceiling structures, if the density of the glass wool is not properly selected, settlement and hollowing may occur after a period of use, leading to localized thermal bridging and affecting the overall insulation and energy-saving effect. This problem is particularly pronounced in large-area building envelopes and duct systems.

Fifth, while its fire resistance is good, its structural integrity is limited. Glass wool itself is a non-combustible or flame-retardant material, performing well in terms of fire resistance. However, under high temperatures or fire conditions, its fiber structure softens and collapses. Although it does not support combustion, it may lose its original insulation and support functions. Therefore, in applications with high fire resistance requirements, it is usually necessary to use it in conjunction with metal sheaths or other protective systems. Finally, the high dependence on construction quality is also one of the reasons why glass wool is prone to problems. Glass wool requires high-level construction techniques, including precise cutting dimensions, continuity of the moisture barrier, and joint treatment. If construction quality control is inadequate, even if the material itself is qualified, it can easily lead to cold bridging, insulation leakage, and condensation risks, affecting the actual performance.

Overall, glass wool has significant advantages in insulation, sound absorption, and fire resistance. However, in actual use, it is susceptible to factors such as moisture absorption, insufficient protection, limited structural strength, and construction quality. By selecting appropriate types, strengthening moisture-proofing measures, standardizing construction techniques, and installing outer protective layers in key areas, these problems can be effectively reduced, allowing the comprehensive performance of glass wool materials to be fully utilized.