More and more construction companies, property owners, and architects are realizing the benefits of natural organic materials in construction processes for a sustainable and climate-smart future, both in terms of construction and the environment as a whole. Here, we ask Westergrens Bygg in Hallstavik AB, which uses Swedish-made cellulose insulation from iCell in its production, among other things, to gain a better understanding of their decision and how it affects their construction projects.
What type of natural materials do you use and why did you choose them?
– We use cellulose insulation and wood products to the greatest extent possible. The choice is because they are products that we think work well and are also good for the environment.
What advantages do you see in using cellulose as insulation compared to commonly used synthetic alternatives such as mineral wool?
– In our opinion, the major advantage of cellulose as insulation is the dust and sound properties, which also improve our working environment.
Have you encountered any challenges in connection with the use of natural materials? If so, what were they, and how did you solve them?
– If we stick to iCell, we were a little conservative about trying something other than mineral and stone wool. But it was a customer who wanted us to use cellulose insulation on their project. So we tried it and were very impressed with the product, and the support iCell provided means that we now very much prefer to choose iCell.
What types of construction projects are best suited for cellulose insulation?
– We believe that you can choose cellulose insulation in almost any project.
How do you experience the use of organic material such as cellulose to work with in terms of environment and sustainability?
– It is primarily the dust and the stability of the boards that improve both the completed project and our working environment.
What is your general attitude towards other material choices when it comes to the environment and sustainability?
– We, and everyone else for that matter, must get better at choosing recycled and sustainable products.
What advice would you give to other builders who are considering switching more and more to organic and natural materials?
– In our opinion, the construction industry is quite conservative, but our advice is definitely to dare to try it, it works and is usually good products – both for you and the environment.
How do you see the future for the use of more natural building materials in the construction industry?
– We believe that developments mean that we must become better at using sustainable products to protect our nature and environment, which benefits everyone!
Name: Håkan Westergren
Company: Westergrens Bygg i Hallstavik AB
Website: www.westergrensbygg.se
