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Doubletake Farm
258 Posts |
Posted - 10/16/2011 : 7:14:07 PM
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I came across this on the direct inquiry board and it got me to thinking. I can't find any good info on it. Thoughts, comments, any experience??
quote: I was thinking of possibly trying to use alpaca insulation for our new home, when we build it. Wondering if anyone has heard of anyone else using alpaca insulation for any type of building. If so, I would like to hear advantages and disadvantages about it and how it is best prepared before use. (I assume it may need to somehow be washed first and some type of borate solution used for fire and moth resistance.) I am also wondering if there would be enough of a source of organic alpaca fiber out there for this in the U.S. just for our own personal home. I was thinking I could use the "seconds" - the fiber that was not wanted for other things like clothes, rugs, etc. I am very interested in having 100% natural insulation and alpaca is after all very warm. I'm not entirely sure how the characteristics of wool would fair in comparison to alpaca as house insulation. For example, I know alpaca is supposed to be warmer, but what about the water absorption characteristics - is that more favorable for wool or alpaca? Which would dry out faster? (I do know wool insulation is expensive. I would also like to keep the cost reasonable.) Please, let me know your thoughts!
Kimberly Brummitt Doubletake Farm Orwell, Ohio 330.766.0152 www.alpacanation.com/doubletakefarm alpacas@doubletakefarm.com
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Heidi Christensen
4211 Posts |
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Adobe Park Alpacas
63 Posts |
Posted - 10/17/2011 : 02:28:26 AM
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Hi,
We are currently having 5500lb of polyester, wool and alpaca being needle felted into thick batts for the insulation of our new house. The alpaca and wool is scoured and moth proofed.
We are assuming that the alpaca,wool, polyester insulation will have better insulation properties than a wool, polyester mix. Moisture absorption is similar to wool insulation and provided there is not a problem with excess moisture (ie the house not being water proof) the batts act basically as a garment does.
Brian Kitson Adobe Park Alpacas Geraldine NZ |
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