Knauf vs Aerolite
Knauf vs Aerolite Insulation – Which Is Better?
If you’re comparing Knauf vs Aerolite insulation, you’re looking at two of the most widely used ceiling insulation products in South Africa:
- Knauf – glasswool insulation
- Aerolite Soft Touch – glasswool insulation (formerly known as Think Pink Aerolite)
Both products are used for ceiling insulation and roof insulation in residential and commercial buildings, and both offer strong thermal performance. However, they differ slightly in density, handling, and overall feel during installation.
You can also explore all our insulation comparisons to compare different materials, brands, and applications.
Here’s how Knauf and Aerolite insulation compare, including performance, pricing, and which option is better for your home.
Quick Answer
- Best overall performance: Knauf
- Best thermal efficiency: Both equal (both have ±3.38 R-value)
- Best fire resistance: Both equal (A1 non-combustible)
- Best acoustic (noise dampening): Knauf (slightly higher density)
- Best comfort (soft to handle): Knauf
Both products perform at a high level and are often similarly priced. Knauf typically offers slightly higher density and structure, while still being soft-touch and low-itch. Aerolite is also comfortable to handle, but Knauf strikes a better balance between performance and installation comfort.
Knauf vs Aerolite Comparison
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Material | Glass mineral wool | Glass mineral wool |
| Thermal Performance | High (R-value ±3.38) | High (R-value ±3.30–3.35) |
| Fire Rating | Non-combustible (A1) | Non-combustible (A1) |
| Acoustic Performance | Strong sound absorption (higher density ±12kg/m³) | Strong sound absorption (±11kg/m³) |
| Density | Higher (±12kg/m³) | Slightly lower (11kg/m³) |
| Comfort (handling) | Soft-touch (low itch) | Very soft, low irritation |
| Lifespan | Long-lasting and stable | Long-lasting and stable |
| Typical Price Range | ±R899 (9m2 per roll) | ±R599 (6m2 per roll) |
Thermal Performance
Both Knauf and Aerolite are high-performance glasswool insulation products.
- 135mm Knauf provides an R-value of around 3.38
- 135mm Aerolite provides an R-value of around 3.38
Both options:
- Reduce heat loss in winter
- Reduce heat gain in summer
In real-world applications, the thermal performance difference is minimal.
Fire Safety
There is no meaningful difference here:
- Knauf = A1 fire rating (non-combustible)
- Aerolite = A1 fire rating (non-combustible)
Both products:
- Do not burn
- Do not contribute to fire spread
- Meet high fire safety standards
From a fire safety perspective, both are excellent and suitable for residential and commercial use.
If fire resistance is critical, you can also explore our fire-rated insulation products for higher-spec applications.
Acoustic Performance
Both products perform well in reducing noise due to their fibrous glasswool structure.
- Knauf (±12kg/m³) provides slightly better sound absorption due to higher density
- Aerolite (±11kg/m³) still offers strong acoustic performance
In most homes, the difference is not significant, but Knauf has a slight edge for sound dampening.
Price and Value
Pricing can differ noticeably depending on supplier and thickness:
- Knauf: ±R899 per roll (covers ±9m²)
- Aerolite: ±R599 per roll (covers ±6m²)
When broken down per square meter:
- Knauf ≈ R100/m²
- Aerolite ≈ R100/m²
Aerolite is typically more affordable per m²
However:
- Knauf offers slightly higher density
- Knauf offers marginally better acoustic performance
Aerolite = slightly better price
Knauf = slightly better performance
Real-World Recommendation
Choose Knauf if:
- You want slightly higher density insulation
- You want improved acoustic performance
- You prefer a more rigid, structured product
Choose Aerolite if:
- You want better value per m²
- You prefer a softer, more comfortable material
- You want easier handling during installation
Final Verdict
Both Knauf and Aerolite are high-quality glasswool insulation products.
However:
- Knauf offers slightly higher density and structure
- Aerolite offers better affordability and comfort
For most homes, both are excellent choices
Best overall performance:
Knauf Insulation
Best value for money:
Aerolite Insulation
Compare Knauf and Aerolite Insulation Options
What To Do Next
- View Knauf insulation prices
- View Aerolite insulation prices
- Shop ceiling insulation
- Shop roof insulation
- Browse glasswool insulation