Hemp-Based Insulation: A Critical Examination of HempWool

In the burgeoning sustainable building materials market, HempWool emerges as a significant yet controversial player. As it seeks to broaden its market reach, HempWool is concurrently embroiled in serious fire safety concerns.

This issue gains particular relevance as the company embarks on raising additional funds through WeFunder, casting a spotlight on its operational and ethical challenges.

Overview of HempWool’s Safety Concerns
The core of HempWool’s controversy lies in its fire safety standards. The product, according to its current Technical Data Sheet (TDS), holds an alarming ASTM rating of E, indicating a rapid ignition time of 6.67 seconds. This rating pertains not only to the original product but also, as stated in the TDS, to the current production in Idaho, which is manufactured to identical specifications. The company’s claim on social media of achieving an ‘A’ fire rating for their latest product lacks substantial corroborative details, as evidenced in their TDS footnote:

“Testing data obtained by our manufacturing partner for our imported HempWool® insulation. Our Idaho made HempWool® is made to the same specifications, but has not been independently tested. A new technical data sheet covering the results of our improved HempWool® formulation is pending. Please consult with your local building department to use the product that meets your local inspector’s compliance threshold.”

This ambiguous communication raises significant doubts about the product’s safety and the company’s transparency.

Take special note of this last staement wich put the onus on the buyer “Please consult with your local building department to use the product that meets your local inspector’s compliance threshold.”

Significance of Past Installations
Most concerning is that the majority of HempWool’s 1500 installations involve the older, E-rated material. This presents a severe safety hazard in existing structures and a looming liability concern, especially in light of the company’s recent fundraising efforts. The juxtaposition of seeking new investment while grappling with the repercussions of previous product shortcomings underscores a critical need for accountability.

Watch this video from the Conscious Builder and the issues and tests they did on Hempwool

Comparison with Other Hemp-Based Insulations
When juxtaposed with other hemp-based insulations like BioFib, Hemp/Flax, and particularly hempcrete, known for their fire-resistant properties, HempWool’s deficiencies become glaring. These products have set a benchmark in the industry for safety and reliability, a benchmark HempWool currently falls short of, highlighting an urgent need for enhanced safety measures and transparent communication.

Market Impact and Liability Concerns
HempWool’s initiative to raise capital via WeFunder amidst these safety issues presents a complex landscape for potential investors and consumers. The intertwining of trust, safety, and potential liability creates a precarious situation for all parties involved. Investors must weigh the ethical and financial implications of backing a product with a questionable safety record, while consumers are left to consider the risks associated with using such a product.

A Stark Reminder
The situation surrounding HempWool serves as a stark reminder of the crucial importance of transparency and adherence to safety standards within the sustainable building materials industry. As HempWool navigates its path forward, particularly in its pursuit of additional investment, addressing these pivotal safety and liability concerns becomes not just a matter of regulatory compliance, but a fundamental aspect of maintaining consumer trust and ensuring the integrity of their business operations.