The Top Signs of a Poor Home Insulation

The basement area represents roughly 20% of the total heat loss in a house. If you want to renovate your basement, it's best to insulate the basement floor first, not only to improve your overall comfort but also to save on your heating bills. Are you in the middle of building a new home? Or are you simply renovating your home and looking to insulate your basement floor? Keep reading to learn more about it! What Does it Mean to Insulate a Basement Floor? Source: Canva Basement floor insulation consists of top-layer insulation. In other words, the insulation is laid on top of your basement floor, thus making it accessible and fit for use as a living space. For greater thermal comfort, you can also insulate the other surfaces in your basement, i.e. your walls or ceiling. Note that this work can be done either during a construction or a renovation project. Why Insulate Your Basement Floor? When attempting to address the issue of energy loss in the home, basement and floor insulation normally figures at the bottom of any priority list. In other words, we tend to focus on the attic, windows, and doors. However, basement floor insulation is a key factor when it comes to limiting energy loss and improving overall comfort indoors. Since the basement floor is sitting directly on the ground, it's prone to various issues, such as humidity, which spreads to the rest of the house and promotes fungus and mould growth, as well as energy loss due to drafts. All of this can result in poor health and serious damage to furniture, as well as higher utility bills. Therefore, it's important to insulate your basement floor to improve the thermal performance of the structure and avoid moisture damage. Furthermore, it helps maintain the structural stability of the building as does increasing the value of your home in the event of a future home sale, since you can create a new living space in the basement (bedroom, playroom, etc.), or even convert it into a garage, cellar, storage area, etc. The possibilities are endless! Basement Floor Insulation: Pre-Insulation Steps Source: Canva Prior to installing insulation, it's important to consider a number of variables to ensure that the insulation is both effective and long-lasting. Measure the level of ground moisture Before installing insulation, check the humidity level in your basement. If the humidity level in the room exceeds 70%, you'll need to renovate the room before proceeding. If the humidity level is excessively high, your insulation might not last very long and might deteriorate over time. Furthermore, it wouldn't be practical if you want to convert it into a living space, because living in a room with a too high level of humidity is never a good idea. Hire a professional to assess the situation. They'll be able to determine the humidity level in your basement and suggest an appropriate course of action to alleviate it, and then proceed to install your insulation. Choosing the right thermal insulation Considering that basements typically have high humidity levels, it's important to choose insulation that isn't prone to rot. That said, there are three main categories of thermal insulation for basement floor insulation: Mineral insulation: These are the most popular insulations on the market, mainly because of their excellent quality/price ratio. For example, you can choose rockwool, which is best known for its excellent thermal performance, or glass wool. Natural insulation: This type of insulation is valued for its eco-friendly nature, and is made from natural fibres derived from animals or plants. However, they're not affordable to all; this material is rather on the expensive side. Examples of this type of insulation include sheep's wool and expanded cork board, which, on top of having the best thermal performance, is a good soundproofing material. Synthetic insulation: These materials are derived from petroleum products. Despite their non-green nature, they're still very sought after due to their excellent thermal performance and soundproofing. Among these insulations, one finds polyurethane panels and expanded or extruded polystyrene. Choosing insulation shouldn't be done at random. You should make a choice based on the characteristics of the insulation and whether it meets the conditions of your basement. Therefore, consider the following: Insulation type: natural, mineral, or synthetic; Thermal performance of insulation, meaning its thermal capacity, R-value; Condition of the home; Type of surface to insulate; Soundproofing. If, in spite of these guidelines, you're having trouble finding the right insulation, the best thing to do is to consult a professional, they'll be able to advise you on the best option based on your needs. Note: For basement floor insulation, it isn't advisable to use natural insulation materials such as wood wool insulation, as it’s extremely vulnerable to humidity. Instead, opt for synthetic insulation such as extruded polystyrene panels. Are you looking for experts for your basement floor insulation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Basement Floor Insulation: The Best Installation Method When it comes to installing basement floor insulation, it's best to have an experienced professional handle the work to ensure quality and lasting results. If you still want to do it as a DIY project, here are some guidelines to help you. Carefully cut the insulation In order to guarantee optimal thermal comfort, the thickness of your insulation must meet the required standards. The minimum thermal resistance must be R = 3. Therefore, you have to cut your insulation according to the right dimensions. Note that these dimensions vary according to the kind of material you chose. Below are the ideal size (thickness) of some basement floor insulation materials: 12 to 20 cm for cork; 11 to 17 cm for rockwool; 10 to 15 cm for polysterene; 7 to 12 cm for polyurethane. Insulation installation Installing the insulation is relatively simple and done from atop the floor. Simply lay it on top of the existing bare floor. Then, cover it with the flooring of your choice; you can opt for parquet, tiles, or laminate. It’s important to adequately clean the floor prior to laying the insulation. To improve the overall performance of the material, we recommend spreading a layer of sand between the ground and the insulation to prevent the material from ripping. Also, to ensure good thermal insulation, we suggest laying a vapour barrier between the insulation and the flooring. In fact, the vapour barrier will act as a protective film, thus shielding the surface from water vapour infiltration in the basement, meaning reducing the risks of condensation. The vapour barrier will also protect against the humidity contained in the basement. Even though it isn't essential, you can also install a free-floating screed on top of your insulation. It'll reinforce the material's insulating capacities. Cost of a Basement Floor Insulation Source: Canva In Quebec, installing a basement floor thermal insulator is an expensive endeavour. However, the costs vary depending on whether hired professionals carry out the work or not, the type of project (construction or renovation) in mind, and material costs (these vary). Basement floor insulation is easily done during the construction stage, as it doesn’t involve as many expenses as opposed to the renovation stage. Moreso, the material cost will be more or less expensive depending on the chosen material. Account for: $3/sq. ft. for an expanded polystyrene panel; $3.60/sq. ft. for an extruded polystyrene panel; $1.20/sq. ft. for rockwool insulation; $1/sq. ft. for fibreglass wool insulation; $3/sq. ft. for spray polyurethane foam insulation. Should you hire a professional, labour costs will be established by them. However, you can compare quotes to determine if you're being charged a fair amount. You should also budget for the necessary supplies to install the insulation (staples, glue, vapour barrier, etc.).

When contemplating about insulating a house or condo, window insulation is rarely at the forefront of our minds. However, every year, in Quebec, energy costs related to poorly insulated window joints are valued at $417 out of the $1,460 spent. That’s 30% of your energy budget that’s just gone out the window. However, all of that can change with properly insulated window joints. The above-mentioned financial losses are far from being the only ramification of poorly insulated windows. What Are the Ramifications of a Poorly Insulated Window? Source: Canva There are plenty, and Zein Chehadeh of MAG-MTL Projects Inc. best filled us in on some of these when he sat down with us and stated that “a poorly insulated window will have a lot of ramifications, including poor [thermal, Ed.] insulation and poor soundproofing.” And it doesn’t end here. According to him, there are at least 5 ramifications: air leaks, weak thermal insulation, poor soundproofing, condensation buildup, and mould growth. Air Leaks When it comes to window thermal insulation, there are two elements that should be factored into the pressure drop between the inside and outside of our home: Temperature difference; Wind force. Temperature Difference & Air Density The temperature, to which humidity levels are combined, directly influences air density: Temperature (measured in °C & °F) Air mass at 100% humidity Air mass at 1% humidity -10°C/14°F 1.340 1.341 0°C/32°F 1.289 1.292 10°C/50°F 1.241 1.247 20°C/68°F 1.194 1.204 30°C/86°F 1.146 1.164 40°C/104°F 1.096 1.127 This difference in density between the indoor and outdoor air masses results in what is referred to as the "stack effect." The heavier air mass will move towards the lighter air mass, much like the way water flows from one container to another. As a result, if your house is kept at a toasty 20°C (68°F) during the winter, when it’s -10°C (14°F) outside, the cold outside air, which is heavier, will seep into your dwelling. On the other hand, during the summer, the refreshing 20°C (68°F) temperature inside your house will flow outside if the temperature is higher, like 30°C (86°F) for example. It’s all about communicating vessels. As such, for a 10-metre high house, and an inside-and-outside temperature difference of 10°C (14°F), the stack effect will be 4 Pa (pascal). This usually happens during summertime. For the same reason, a temperature difference of 30°C (86°F) between the inside and the outside will result in a 13 Pa stack effect. This unit will increase based on the height of the building since warm air is lighting than cold air. Wind Force The above-mentioned values failed to take into account the wind force, which can profoundly change the pressure value. Thus, for a wind speed of 18 km/h (11 mph), the pressure exerted on the building's façade exposed to wind is 15 Pa, while the unexposed areas are subjected to a low pressure of 5 to 10 Pa. In other words, if your windows are poorly insulated, your house will rapidly become the centre focus of drafts. Poor Thermal Insulation As you’ve gathered from our brief overview of air masses: During the winter, you’re warming up the exterior atmosphere, and during the summer, you’re cooling it. Might as well point out that you’re literally throwing cash out the window. The environmental and financial impacts are so important that our neighbours across the pond (France), have, for example, set up a so-called CEE (White Certificates), which have led to more than 3 million window replacements since 2011, including those of their Senate. This shows how pressing the topic of thermal insulation is nowadays, when energy consumption is the focal point of all concerns. Little Soundproofing As Chehadeh mentioned, windows with faulty or no insulation joints have very weak soundproofing abilities. A substandard window will only reduce exterior sounds seeping into your house by 26 to 28 decibels. On a decibel scale, 30 dB is comparable to a quiet bedroom. With such windows, outside sounds are almost as loud as if they were in your house. A high-end, double-pane window with joint insulation reduces noise levels to 40 decibels, which amounts to the average noise a moviegoer might emit. More Condensation This is another serious problem that results from poorly insulated windows. In Quebec, condensation is especially prevalent in homes with poorly insulated windows since it usually occurs during the winter. And that’s why the Canadian government encourages its citizens to invest in Energy Star-certified windows, meaning windows that have the following: Triple panes; Fitted with an anti-condensation coating; Inert gas between the glass panes; Quality spacers; Insulated frames and sashes; Extensively waterproof. The whole lot is designed to better fight against a serious problem that we’ve already broached in a previous article: mould. Mould Growth Chehadeh draws the perfect parallel between condensation and mould: “Substandard window insulation will result in more condensation, which will, in turn, facilitate mould growth.” In fact, mould growth in homes can cause health problems such as asthma, or much more serious illnesses in cases involving individuals with an immune deficiency. Among other things, mycetoma is, in immunocompromised individuals, a disease caused by the presence of mould spores in the lungs. Are you looking for experts for your window insulation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! How to Calculate Window Insulation Value Source: Canva Before going over the various features offered with window insulation joints, let’s clarify the constraints these face, and how they’re measured. To understand window insulation levels, you first need to consider two things: the window joints and the window itself. Joint Thermal Efficiency Windows are naturally subject to air pressure, which will vary between 50 and 600 Pa, and amount to a 5 to 60 kg/m² pressure, or 11 Lb to 132 Lb/sq. ft. So, what’s the reason behind such a variation? Well, because it correlates to 32 to 111 km/h winds, which equals 20 to 69 mph. Like a structure’s façade, windows are exposed to severe constraints, which directly affect the joints. Therefore, the thermal permeability is measured in m³/(h x m x Pa2/3). This ratio shows the cubic metres of air that penetrate a joint per hour and per joint metre, according to a pressure difference of 1 Pa. It's then used to determine the heat loss value, measured in W/m²K. If you’re unfamiliar with K-value, continue on to the section down below. Window K-Value It’s a window's thermal conductivity value, measured in W/(m²K). A window, made up of a sash, a glass pane, as well as a screen, has a good thermal conductivity value when it’s measured somewhere between 1.1 and 0.6 W/m²K. This value can take into account up to 12 different factors, which ultimately correspond to the window’s overall thermal conductivity value (glass pane, frame, screen, etc.) divided by their total surface area. As such, not all materials are the same, as depicted in the chart below: Material Thermal conductivity [W/mk] Standard K-value [W/m²K] for a window sash Standard K-value [W/m²K] for a window Wood 0.12 2.1 -3.1 1.5 - 2.8 Aluminum 220 5.0 - 6.6 (thermally insulated) 1.9 - 3.3 PVC plastic 0.16 2.3 - 3.9 1.7 - 2.9 Various Sealants & Their Features Source: Canva There are at least 5 different types of window insulation materials, and each has its pros and cons. As such, we've outlined their characteristics to help you choose between silicone, polyurethane, acrylic, MS polymer, latex, and hybrid sealants. Caulking Silicone Silicone is a white sealant made of silicon and methyl chloride. It’s: Stretchy; Resistant to adverse weather; Easy to apply; Adhesive; Cheap. It’s available under three formulas: neutral, ascetic, and aqueous. Ascetic formulations have a vinegar-like odour while curing. Like neutral formulations, they're ideal for glass surfaces. The aqueous formulation will work fine when applied to a damp or wet surface. Silicone sealants have a shelf life of over 20 years and are virtually unaffected by temperature variations, which is ideal for sealing windows in Canada, where the temperature fluctuation varies greatly from one season to the next. Silicone sealants also have downsides: Have to be applied in dry temperatures above 0°C (32°F); Rendered useless when submerged or in stagnant water; Can’t be painted; Can stain stone and mirrors; Will yellow when lacking UV exposure. Hence, never use silicone sealant on a stone surface. The oily nature of the sealant can seep into the stone and discolour it. However, you can use sealants that were specially designed for this type of material. Polyurethane Sealants Polyurethane sealants are found in three formats: putty, foam, and tape. They have plenty of advantages over silicone. The following are listed below: Water and submersion proof; Flexible; Can be applied to plastic, glass, stainless steel, soil, etc.; UV ray resistant; 20-year shelf life. They also have downsides, most notably: Temperature fluctuation sensitivity (hardens during winter, softens during summer); Can harden and crack over time; Toxic isocyanate-based. Acrylic Sealant It's a mix of acrylic resins designed to fill in expansion joints or cracks. These sealants have a lot of advantages: they can be painted, are odourless while curing, and are easy to smooth out when first applied. However, compared to silicone, acrylic sealants have a lot more downsides: Less flexible; Not as adhesive; Not as waterproof; Also has to be applied during dry temperatures above 0°C (32°F); Have to be painted if applied outside. MS Polymer Sealants Consists of polymer and silane compounds that are also intended to render joints waterproof, benefiting from the fact that they're: Supple; Stretchy; Compatible with water-based paints; Devoid of isocyanates; Can be applied to damp surfaces and all types of materials. However, MS polymer sealants also have downsides. As such, this material doesn’t age well when exposed to UV rays and doesn’t usually adhere well to solvent-based paints. Latex Sealants Latex-sealed window joints are made using a water-based compound, and it has a lot of advantages. This type of product is cheap, can be painted, and is ideal for an aesthetic finish. However, it isn't made for outdoor use. Hybrid Sealants Hybrid sealants are compounds that combine both polyurethane and silicone. As such, it’s designed to blend the advantages of both types of caulking. However, it's still very new in the construction industry. Therefore, there’s yet to be any feedback regarding this type of sealant. Waterproofing Membranes If sealants have yet to convince you that they're effective window joint insulation materials, you can also turn to another solution: window membranes. Such material is an elastomeric covering that’s installed around the perimeter of the window, which acts as a thermal insulator. The membrane also acts as a water leak prevention tool. For this reason, it's always paired with the installation of flashing with a drip edge. Price Range for Window Insulation Materials Source: Canva Cost of Silicone Sealant For a 2.7 oz (roughly 81 ml) tube of silicone sealant, expect to pay $20. Some retailers carry multi-pack kits, which can be purchased for as little as $12 apiece. Which amounts to $4.44/oz. Cost of Polyurethane Sealant As for polyurethane sealant tubes, these go for about $35 for 10.01 oz (about 300ml). They’re cheaper than silicone sealants. Which amounts to $3.46/oz. Cost of Acrylic Sealants The cost of acrylic sealants varies between that of silicone and polyurethane sealants; for a 14.5 oz (about 435ml) tube, the price is around $55. Which amounts to $3.79/oz. Cost of MS Polymer Sealant This is the most expensive window sealant product mentioned. For two 19.3 oz (580 ml) tubes, expect to pay a little under 120 dollars. Which amounts to $6.22/oz. Cost of Latex Sealant Latex sealant is, by far, the cheapest option. 10 oz tubes (about 300 ml) go for less than $5 apiece. Which amounts to $0.50/oz. Cost of a Hydrid Covering You can purchase hybrid coverings for less than a silicone or polyurethane sealant. In fact, you can buy 10.1 oz (304 ml) tubes for roughly $8. Which amounts to $1.26/oz. Cost of a Window Waterproofing Membrane Sold in roll form, you can find a 12-inch wide by 75 feet-long roll for less than $85. Cover photo source: Ozgu Ozden - Unsplash

Slab insulation plays a key role in overall home construction as it improves energy efficiency, controls moisture, increases durability, and reduces energy costs. Although your concrete slab insulation might vary depending on local building codes, it doesn't hurt to install one in your home. If you want to know more about slab insulation, such as information regarding the best insulation methods and their benefits, basement slab insulation regulations, and the price for the best insulation boards, keep scrolling to the end so you don't miss anything. How to Insulate a Garage Slab Source: Canva If you’ve started noticing cracks or fissures in your concrete slab, the most probable reason is that it most likely wasn’t adequately protected, and in this section of the article, you’ll learn about the best ways to do so. Unfortunately, a lot of homeowners assume that heating their floor is the only thing they need to do to make up for a poorly insulated garage floor, or an inadequately insulated concrete slab. However, overheating your garage slab can result in a significant increase in your heating bill and a quick deterioration of the slab. That's why it's important to carefully consider insulating your garage slab. So, how should you proceed? Essentially, in the construction industry, there are two main methods: Laying insulation atop concrete slab: This method consists of making a sort of “sandwich” with the insulation and your slab to eliminate thermal bridges. Here, the insulation panels are laid in place and covered by a concrete screed. Laying under-slab insulation: This method is ideal when renovating the existing floor. To do so, the contractor will install insulation panels before pouring the concrete. Insulation material beneath the slab allows for a constant, yet low source of heat, one that progressively heats the concrete’s thermal mass and maintains a constant temperature. Now that you’re familiar with the different insulation methods, you’re going to want to know more about the insulation materials designed for garage slab insulation. There are a lot of different options available on the Canadian market, however, professionals most often recommend polyurea and plain epoxy floor coatings. Polyurea is ideal as a concrete garage floor protective coating. Garage floors are constantly under stress from a variety of substances, including calcium and other chemicals. It can also expand and shrink as a result of humidity and temperature fluctuations. Add water infiltration to the mix, and you've got the right combination for the surface to succumb to cracks. A polyurea cover is a perfect solution, because this coating is flexible, withstands great temperature variations, and tends to shadow the movements of concrete. With this coating, your garage slab will be more resistant to water infiltration (no risk of cracking). However, for optimal insulation, we recommend hiring professionals to tackle the job. Epoxy (plain or clear): This one is also known to be an excellent insulation material because it’s really durable. Unlike polyurea, epoxy does require some alterations to better adapt to the garage floor’s unstable nature. However, if you still wish to use an epoxy coating for your concrete slab project, definitely opt for plain epoxy. It benefits those who reside in snow-prone regions, where salts and deicing fluids can damage the concrete. Furthermore, epoxy coatings consistently get good reviews from mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. Since it's as resistant to chemicals as it is to stains, brake fluids and gasoline and other harsh car chemicals can easily be wiped off, even if they linger on the surface for an extended period of time. To sum it up, an epoxy coating is suitable for living areas, while polyurea will be much more appropriate for garage floors. Basement Concrete Slab Insulation Regulations As of August 2012, the National Building Code of Canada, which serves as the basis for the Quebec Construction Code, stipulated that under-slab insulation must be installed in all newly constructed buildings. Additionally, the insulation system must be able to provide both air and vapour barrier functions. These new building codes have been adopted in an effort to mitigate climate change and increase overall energy efficiency. To comply with the new laws regarding under-slab insulation, here are the three procedures to apply: Concrete slab surface has an overall R-5 value; An R-7.5 value over a distance of 4 feet around the under-slab perimeter; Overall R-10 value on the entire surface if you’re building a heated floor. Reminder: The R-value of insulation materials measures the effectiveness of a type of insulation in regard to heat flow resistance. The higher a material’s R-value, the more effective it is in preventing heat transfer. Steps to Insulating a Basement Concrete Slab Source: Canva If you want to insulate your basement concrete slab, here are the basic steps recommended by constructions professionals: Prepare and level out the ground. To do so, you’ll need to use four inches of gravel. Once the prep work and the levelling are done, spray 1.5 inches of Type II R-6 spray urethane foam on the gravel itself. This layer is applied in such a way that the urethane will act as an air and vapour barrier despite the irregularities of gravel. Given that the Construction Code of Quebec requires thermal insulation between foundation walls and the slab, apply urethane all the while raising the foundation walls by about 15.24 cm (6 inches). Now, pour your concrete slab and put up the partitions (2 by 4). To finish it off, use spray urethane foam to insulate the edges and the foundations. Are you looking for experts for your slab insulation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Additional Basement Slab Insulation Options If, for one reason or another, you don’t want to use polyurea to insulate your basement concrete slab, here are other options available to you: STYROFOAM BOARDS These lightweight and rigid panels are a favourite in Canada. Since the bulk of this material is air, it's a terrible heat conductor, but makes for an excellent convector: It creates tiny pockets of air that prevent thermal energy transfer. Therefore, styrofoam boards are effective insulators since they limit heat transfer by conduction and convection. And because it retains air and reduces heat flow, it keeps the building's interior warmer for longer. Note that in Canada, compression-strength Styrofoam boards are available in stores, for example, as load-bearing structures. However, the downside is that they're not easy to anchor. POLYTHENE VAPOUR BARRIERS These are used to manage natural water vapour caused by the building’s overall use. This material was designed to address a wide variety of structural systems, providing specific solutions for various uses and requirements. They also act as an effective draft barrier to prevent unwanted convection flow losses. RADIANT BARRIERS Such an insulation system works by reflecting heat as well as maintaining cool air within spaces during summer, without air conditioning. However, it's different from other types of insulation: its effectiveness can’t be measured by an R-value. It usually consists of a double layer of polyethylene bubble wrap enclosed between layers of 99% pure aluminum on one side and white polyethylene on the other. This insulation is used for a variety of insulation purposes, including basement floors and concrete garage slabs. To install, simply lay down the insulation, unfurl it, and seal the joints with tape. Pricing Details for a Slab Insulation Panel Source: Canva If you live in Quebec, make sure to familiarize yourself with the different prices in regard to slab insulation. For instance, note that you’ll need to spend about $45.90 to purchase an Iflexfoam 160 insulation panel (dimensions: 2 1/2 in x 4 ft x 8 ft). This material is made from high-density expanded polystyrene, and then it’s laminated with a polypropylene membrane on both sides. The bottom membrane is covered in very small holes across its entire surface. It can be used as under-slab insulation, as well as garage insulation in commercial or residential environments. Since it's made of at least 95% air and no more than 5% plastic, it has fewer toxicity risks than traditional building materials. FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions How do I insulate a slab on top of an existing foundation? To insulate solid ground beneath a concrete slab, you have the option of using PIR insulation panels (rigid foam boards) or EPS insulation panels (expanded polystyrene). EPS can be a very cost-effective alternative to PIR floor insulation, and with a thicker layer, the same thermal performance can be achieved. What’s a monolithic slab, and what are its advantages? In civil engineering, the monolithic slab is referred to as a “slab on grade” foundation. It consists of a single pour of cement, with thicker patches of concrete around the periphery and areas supporting load-bearing walls. It's energy-efficient, meaning it requires less energy to heat and cool your home; it's low maintenance, quick to install and dries faster than any other type of cement foundation. However, the biggest concern with slab-on-grade insulation is that it's exposed, and thus susceptible to damage.

Foam insulation is a valuable product, especially since it’s lightweight and easy to install. It’s also an effective way to insulate walls and floors. However little known, polyurethane foam is an amazing product that can very likely be a solution to many a problem. Since it’s particularly adhesive and effectively insulates, every year, this product enables Canadians to shield their residences from the harsh winter cold. Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation: Features Source: Canva Spray polyurethane foam insulation is an effective thermal and sound insulation method that can be used in a variety of cases. It’s often used in buildings since it resists well to warm and cold air, and it’s a good soundproofing material. It can also be used in vehicles, appliances, and furniture. Spray polyurethane foam is also known as urethane. It’s the most effective and high-performing insulation material available on the market, therefore, it’s a massive hit. When sprayed, the two fluids are combined and then applied to the targeted surface. For that reason, sprayed polyurethane is also called "polyurethane foam." Once this mixture comes in contact with the target, it immediately expands and hardens. This foam can be applied to many surfaces, as long as they're more than an inch thick. Polyurethane foam adheres to construction materials, and as a matter of fact, can be used independently, depending on the desired result. Normally, polyurethane foam has the following characteristics: Commercial or residential use; R-value between 5 and 7; Humidity resistant; Air barrier; Vapour barrier. More detailed information about the product is available through the manufacturer, like Airmétic Soya or BASF Walltite ECO, and their data sheets. These documents are accessible on the respective company's website, and will fully describe the product in question. Benefits of Spray Polyurethane Insulation The benefits of polyurethane insulation are numerous and varied. It’s an excellent insulator, both in terms of thermal use and soundproofing. Since it’s in a spray form, it adequately fills in all exposed crevices, which eliminates the possibility of drafts and guarantees the overall protection of the dwelling. Moreover, it's resistant to mould and moisture, making it ideal for damp environments. Polyurethane insulation is also fire resistant and, when it burns, it doesn't emit toxic fumes. Sprayed polyurethane has the highest thermal resistance of any insulation material on the market (R-value between R-6 and R-7 per inch). It’s also recyclable. Thus, polyurethane insulation is an ideal material for effective thermal and acoustic insulation. This foam is odourless; it doesn’t smell at all, and it’s easy to paint to render invisible, yet it still resists most solvents and other chemical products. Urethane is an amazing material that allows for a quick and flexible installation, done safely. As such, choosing spray polyurethane insulation means benefiting from a far better thermal performance than you would otherwise with other types of insulation, as well as having an air and moisture barrier in your home. Also, it adheres well to irregular surfaces, and you’ll have a clear conscience since this product is certified green. Using Spray Polyurethane Insulation Source: Canva Spray polyurethane insulation is an effective thermal insulation product. This technique involves spraying foam in cavities between walls, ceilings, and floors. As such, this method was specially designed for older houses and decrepit buildings since it insulates spaces without the need for major renovation or demolition work. Moreso, spray polyurethane insulation is very durable and withstands bad weather pretty well. You can insulate: Between the roof and attic; A flat roof; A cathedral ceiling; Exterior walls; Foundations, basements, and others; Rim joists. Spray polyurethane cans are very easy to find in hardware stores and are fairly easy to use. However, should you want to insulate large areas, it’s probably best to call in a professional technician. Also, beware of misappropriated uses of polyurethane foam. In fact, the latter can’t be used in just any which way. It shouldn’t be used outdoors to seal a gas line or a ventilation duct, as the foam is then exposed to UV rays and will quickly disintegrate. Note that urethane is flammable, albeit with very high thermal resistance. Therefore, we always recommend covering the foam with fireproof materials, such as drywall. Fun Facts About Spray Polyurethane Foam Spray polyurethane foam is a versatile, eco-friendly, and durable product. It’s made with recycled polymers and devoid of any toxic substances. It’s also hypoallergenic and moisture-resistant. It’s also easy to clean and can be used repeatedly. It’s perfect for those who are looking for an ecological and durable product. Urethane is a 4-in-1 product: insulation, air barrier, vapour barrier, and radon protection. It may contain renewable fuel as well as recycled plastics, and the foam is a super sturdy element that doesn’t crumble or flatten. Should you want to spray foam in strategic areas, it can be rendered very cost-effective in terms of heating. To do so, you’ll have to contact a professional service to insulate the inside of your foundation walls, the exterior façade (basement), the ceiling (through the attic), the joists between each level, and the floor as well. Are you looking for experts for your foam insulation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Pricing for Various Types of Foam Insulations Source: Canva There are various foam insulation products available on the market, all priced differently. For example, closed-cell spray foam insulation is normally more expensive than open-cell spray foam insulation. However, this is explained by the fact that the former is much more effective in terms of thermal insulation and sealing against drafts. Other types of foam insulation products, such as rigid foam boards, can also vary price-wise, depending on the product’s features. Foam insulation is for the most part more expensive than other insulation materials like wool batt insulation or cellulose considering its efficiency bypasses the latter by far. However, its steep price is quickly offset in terms of material and workforce savings. Indeed, this foam insulation is very easy to use. It perfectly adapts to irregular surfaces and creates a protective shield against the outdoors. Account for roughly $3 per square foot for about an 8 cm-thick layer, if done by a professional. Moreso, cost savings due to insulation are huge and quickly offset the initial financial investment. This insulation material turns out to be an excellent choice in terms of eco-energy since it’s highly insulating and leak-proof. It renders surfaces draft-free, which is especially important in cold, northern regions of Canada. So, if you reside in Quebec or another cold Canadian region, opt for spray polyurethane foam insulation, and benefit from highly efficient, durable insulation for your home. This insulation product is perfect for countless types of projects.

Foam insulation is a valuable product, especially since it’s lightweight and easy to install. It’s also an effective way to insulate walls and floors. However little known, polyurethane foam is an amazing product that can very likely be a solution to many a problem. Since it’s particularly adhesive and effectively insulates, every year, this product enables Canadians to shield their residences from the harsh winter cold. Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation: Features Source: Canva Spray polyurethane foam insulation is an effective thermal and sound insulation method that can be used in a variety of cases. It’s often used in buildings since it resists well to warm and cold air, and it’s a good soundproofing material. It can also be used in vehicles, appliances, and furniture. Spray polyurethane foam is also known as urethane. It’s the most effective and high-performing insulation material available on the market, therefore, it’s a massive hit. When sprayed, the two fluids are combined and then applied to the targeted surface. For that reason, sprayed polyurethane is also called "polyurethane foam." Once this mixture comes in contact with the target, it immediately expands and hardens. This foam can be applied to many surfaces, as long as they're more than an inch thick. Polyurethane foam adheres to construction materials, and as a matter of fact, can be used independently, depending on the desired result. Normally, polyurethane foam has the following characteristics: Commercial or residential use; R-value between 5 and 7; Humidity resistant; Air barrier; Vapour barrier. More detailed information about the product is available through the manufacturer, like Airmétic Soya or BASF Walltite ECO, and their data sheets. These documents are accessible on the respective company's website, and will fully describe the product in question. Benefits of Spray Polyurethane Insulation The benefits of polyurethane insulation are numerous and varied. It’s an excellent insulator, both in terms of thermal use and soundproofing. Since it’s in a spray form, it adequately fills in all exposed crevices, which eliminates the possibility of drafts and guarantees the overall protection of the dwelling. Moreover, it's resistant to mould and moisture, making it ideal for damp environments. Polyurethane insulation is also fire resistant and, when it burns, it doesn't emit toxic fumes. Sprayed polyurethane has the highest thermal resistance of any insulation material on the market (R-value between R-6 and R-7 per inch). It’s also recyclable. Thus, polyurethane insulation is an ideal material for effective thermal and acoustic insulation. This foam is odourless; it doesn’t smell at all, and it’s easy to paint to render invisible, yet it still resists most solvents and other chemical products. Urethane is an amazing material that allows for a quick and flexible installation, done safely. As such, choosing spray polyurethane insulation means benefiting from a far better thermal performance than you would otherwise with other types of insulation, as well as having an air and moisture barrier in your home. Also, it adheres well to irregular surfaces, and you’ll have a clear conscience since this product is certified green. Using Spray Polyurethane Insulation Source: Canva Spray polyurethane insulation is an effective thermal insulation product. This technique involves spraying foam in cavities between walls, ceilings, and floors. As such, this method was specially designed for older houses and decrepit buildings since it insulates spaces without the need for major renovation or demolition work. Moreso, spray polyurethane insulation is very durable and withstands bad weather pretty well. You can insulate: Between the roof and attic; A flat roof; A cathedral ceiling; Exterior walls; Foundations, basements, and others; Rim joists. Spray polyurethane cans are very easy to find in hardware stores and are fairly easy to use. However, should you want to insulate large areas, it’s probably best to call in a professional technician. Also, beware of misappropriated uses of polyurethane foam. In fact, the latter can’t be used in just any which way. It shouldn’t be used outdoors to seal a gas line or a ventilation duct, as the foam is then exposed to UV rays and will quickly disintegrate. Note that urethane is flammable, albeit with very high thermal resistance. Therefore, we always recommend covering the foam with fireproof materials, such as drywall. Fun Facts About Spray Polyurethane Foam Spray polyurethane foam is a versatile, eco-friendly, and durable product. It’s made with recycled polymers and devoid of any toxic substances. It’s also hypoallergenic and moisture-resistant. It’s also easy to clean and can be used repeatedly. It’s perfect for those who are looking for an ecological and durable product. Urethane is a 4-in-1 product: insulation, air barrier, vapour barrier, and radon protection. It may contain renewable fuel as well as recycled plastics, and the foam is a super sturdy element that doesn’t crumble or flatten. Should you want to spray foam in strategic areas, it can be rendered very cost-effective in terms of heating. To do so, you’ll have to contact a professional service to insulate the inside of your foundation walls, the exterior façade (basement), the ceiling (through the attic), the joists between each level, and the floor as well. Are you looking for experts for your foam insulation project? Fill in this form to be connected with top-rated contractors! Pricing for Various Types of Foam Insulations Source: Canva There are various foam insulation products available on the market, all priced differently. For example, closed-cell spray foam insulation is normally more expensive than open-cell spray foam insulation. However, this is explained by the fact that the former is much more effective in terms of thermal insulation and sealing against drafts. Other types of foam insulation products, such as rigid foam boards, can also vary price-wise, depending on the product’s features. Foam insulation is for the most part more expensive than other insulation materials like wool batt insulation or cellulose considering its efficiency bypasses the latter by far. However, its steep price is quickly offset in terms of material and workforce savings. Indeed, this foam insulation is very easy to use. It perfectly adapts to irregular surfaces and creates a protective shield against the outdoors. Account for roughly $3 per square foot for about an 8 cm-thick layer, if done by a professional. Moreso, cost savings due to insulation are huge and quickly offset the initial financial investment. This insulation material turns out to be an excellent choice in terms of eco-energy since it’s highly insulating and leak-proof. It renders surfaces draft-free, which is especially important in cold, northern regions of Canada. So, if you reside in Quebec or another cold Canadian region, opt for spray polyurethane foam insulation, and benefit from highly efficient, durable insulation for your home. This insulation product is perfect for countless types of projects.