CSR Limited proudly celebrates 90 years of Bradford, one of Australia’s leading insulation brands known for its commitment to comfort and energy efficiency. Since its founding in 1934, Bradford has grown from a small business that converted steel waste slag into insulation to an industry leader providing a comprehensive range of Glasswool and Rockwool insulation solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications.
A journey from 1934 to today
Bradford’s journey began in 1934 when the Bradford brothers launched their first insulation plant in Newcastle, transforming waste slag from steel manufacturing into sustainable insulation products. This use of recycled materials in insulation manufacturing laid the foundation for Bradford’s enduring legacy of sustainability, which continues to present day as Bradford’s glasswool manufacturing plants continue to use up to 80% recycled glass content, derived from 100% recycled post-consumer glass, used beverage containers (UBC), and waste flat glass.
Bradford’s first insulation plant in Newcastle
In the 1950s, CSR acquired the Bradford business and introduced non-combustible rockwool manufacturing. The 1960s saw Bradford achieve leadership in acoustic, thermal, and fire-safe insulation solutions. During the 1970s, Bradford established a NATA-certified lab for in-house compliance testing, introduced glasswool technology as an energy-efficient solution, and launched Anticon roofing blankets along with the debut of its mascot, Braddy Batt.
The 1980s marked Bradford’s expansion into new overseas Asian markets and the development of home-grown rockwool technology, driving the adoption of insulation in new homes. In the 1990s, Bradford launched world-class glasswool technology at the new Ingleburn plant, acquired a construction fabrics factory in Mulgrave, Victoria, and introduced Bradford Gold Batts.
In the 2000s, Bradford launched SoundScreen high-density acoustic insulation, played a key role in driving Building Code of Australia regulations for home insulation, acquired Edmonds Ventilation, and saw a major upgrade to the Ingleburn Glasswool plant. The federal government introduced the Home Insulation Program, and Bradford introduced new roof spacer systems for the commercial market.
The 2010s brought the launch of DesignSmart technical support, the introduction of vapour-permeable wrap solutions for condensation control, the acquisition of the Martini polyester business, and the introduction of CSR’s digital Thermal Calculator. Bradford also established a new Approved Distributor Program and upgraded and relocated its construction fabrics factory to Scoresby, Victoria.
In the 2020s, Bradford celebrated over 50 years of continuous accreditation with NATA and launched the Total Home Comfort program, along with a major upgrade to the Brendale Glasswool plant.
Leading the way in comfort and energy efficiency
Today, Bradford’s comprehensive range of insulation and ventilation products includes glasswool, rockwool, building wraps and ventilation solutions designed for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. For residential use, Bradford provides thermal, acoustic and fire insulation, and vapour permeable building wrap, and ventilation systems for roofs, bathrooms, and living spaces. In the commercial sector, Bradford offers insulation for metal roofing, air conditioning systems, fire rated systems, partitioning, ceilings, silencers, and acoustic absorbers. For industrial applications, Bradford supplies Fibertex rockwool and Bradford glasswool products for heavy industrial markets.
Commitment to sustainability
Bradford has always been at the forefront of sustainability, from its early use of recycled materials to its ongoing commitment to energy-efficient solutions. Notable initiatives include the ongoing investment in locally manufactured glasswool technology to build more energy efficient buildings, driving regulations for home insulation, promoting the benefits of condensation control, and introducing the digital Thermal Calculator to improve technical specifications.
Looking to the future
As Bradford looks ahead to the next 90 years, the company remains dedicated to advancing comfort, energy efficiency and sustainability. “Our vision for the future is to continue leading the industry with innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance the comfort and energy efficiency of homes and buildings,” said Mariana Lai, Category Manager at Bradford. “We are committed to reducing environmental impact while delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
Main image: Bradford’s Ingleburn plant
