About Nu-Wool

75 Years of Expertise in the Insulation Market

About Us

Beginning in 1949, Nu-Wool’s vision was simple: Manufacture superior performing insulation from recycled paper.  To this day, Nu-Wool has remained true to that vision.  Over the past 75 years through advancements in technology, installation and application technique, Nu-Wool has manufactured insulation with high recycled content that thermally and acoustically outperforms other types of insulation, resulting in energy savings – a product so superior it is backed by a 10-Year Energy Guarantee on heating and cooling bills.  

Throughout its history, Nu-Wool has remained a family owned and operated business, and is the world’s oldest and most product and service innovative manufacturer of cellulose insulation.

Nu-Wool processes more than 20,000 tons of recycled paper into insulation products each year. Nu-Wool takes pride knowing that we use non-virgin materials for production and are annually helping prevent those 20,000 tons of paper from entering landfills. Our products are all natural and energy saving and continue to be one of the best choices of insulating structures. Our manufacturing process, dealer training and support, and innovative equipment designs continue to propel us to the forefront of the insulation industry. With a customer first mentality, we are and plan to continue to be the longest running cellulose insulation company in the world for future generations. 

Company History

1940's

The Inspiration

Historically, mud, sticks, leaves, straw and other materials have been used to seal the gaps and cracks in dwellings to prevent air movement in and out of the structure.  In the 1940’s, it was common for people to glue newspapers to their walls to help with air infiltration and to keep their homes warm.  This simple activity was the inspiration for cellulose insulation.

1940's

1949 - the late 1960's

In the Beginning

In 1949, as insulating homes became popular and the supply of quality cellulose insulation was minimal, our founder, Al Altenbernt, saw an opportunity and began creating his own cellulose to install – Nu-Wool Insulation. By the late 1960’s, the demand for Nu-Wool was significant so the company decided to stop installing and only sell to other contractors and retailers.  

1949 - the late 1960's

1970's

Recognition

Beginning in the 1970’s, Nu-Wool started receiving recognition for its innovative ideas due to our commitment to quality and to helping our customers reach their full potential. Our innovation has spread into all facets of our operation, beginning with our manufacturing process, raw materials, mechanical support, equipment fabrication, technical support and training of inside and outside sales staff.  

1970's

1970-now

A Family Business

In 1970, Fred Henderson began selling Nu-Wool Insulation and by 1972 was a shareholder along with his wife Jenny. Fred guided Nu-Wool through the next 3 decades as President, and in the 1990’s the Henderson’s became sole owners of the company. Their son, Mark Henderson, joined the company in 1996, and took the reins as President in 1998. The company is currently owned by Mark and his wife, Valerie. The 3rd generation of Henderson’s are now active in the business. 

1970-now

1987

Nu-Wool WALLSEAL System

Developed in 1987, the Nu-Wool WALLSEAL System, a method of installing Nu-Wool Premium Cellulose Insulation in wall cavities, became Nu-Wool’s ticket into the new housing construction process. Our many cost saving firewall designs are expanding our business in the multi-unit residential and commercial market. Nu-Wool’s strategic plan will have Nu-Wool Premium Cellulose Insulation and our WALLSEAL System known as the very best insulation value for property owners.

1987

2010

ECOCELL Batts & Blankets

Nu-Wool’s latest innovations, ECOCELL batts and blankets made from Nu-Wool Premium Cellulose Insulation and other fibers, are the only US made cellulose based batts and blankets in the market.

2010

Today

Eco-Friendly Commitment

As building science and consumers continue to push for eco-friendly products that reduce carbon footprints and emissions, Nu-Wool takes pride in knowing our cellulose products have been GREEN Since 1949… before GREEN building existed. 

Today
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How to Buy Nu-Wool

Nu-Wool Insulation products are available for professional install by a certified installer or can be purchased at select lumberyards and retailers for DIY install.

Energy Savings Calculator

Disclaimer

The use of this calculator is limited to comparisons between energy costs of example homes only. The numbers shown do not represent actual dollar amounts or dollar savings from Nu-Wool Co., Inc. Your savings may vary. The calculations are based on typical new home construction, state average utility costs, new high efficiency HVAC systems, and typical weather for the state selected. These numbers do not include base utility costs such as water heating, lights, and appliances. If you have questions, please contact the Nu-Wool technical department at (616) 669-0100.