Insulation

The Purpose of Insulation

Insulation is one of the most important systems in any home, acting as a thermal barrier that keeps interiors warm in winter and cool in summer. In Eastern Ontario, with its cold winters, humid summers, and wide seasonal temperature swings, proper insulation is critical not only for comfort but also for reducing energy costs and preventing issues like ice dams, condensation, or drafts.

Common Types of Insulation

1. Fiberglass Batt Insulation

• Description: Made of fine glass fibers, sold in pre-cut rolls or batts.

• Where It’s Used: Walls, attics, floors, basements.

• Pros: Affordable, easy to install, fire-resistant, widely available.

• Cons: Can leave gaps if not fitted properly, less effective in irregular spaces, irritant to skin and lungs if handled without care.

• Eastern Ontario Use: Common in attics and walls of suburban homes and renovations.

2. Blown-In Cellulose Insulation

• Description: Made from recycled paper treated with fire retardants, blown into cavities or attics.

• Where It’s Used: Attic floors, wall cavities (retrofits).

• Pros: Great for filling irregular spaces, eco-friendly, excellent coverage.

• Cons: Can settle over time, less resistant to moisture compared to other types.

• Eastern Ontario Use: Popular for upgrading older homes, especially where adding batts isn’t practical.

3. Spray Foam Insulation (Open and Closed Cell)

• Description: Expands on application, sealing cracks and gaps.

• Where It’s Used: Rim joists, basements, walls, attics.

• Pros: Superior air seal, high R-value, moisture resistant, prevents drafts.

• Cons: Expensive, requires professional installation, can’t be easily removed.

• Eastern Ontario Use: Often chosen for custom builds or energy-efficient retrofits to combat drafts and moisture.

4. Rigid Foam Board Insulation

• Description: Panels of polystyrene (EPS/XPS) or polyisocyanurate.

• Where It’s Used: Exterior sheathing, basements, foundations, under slabs.

• Pros: High R-value per inch, moisture resistant, adds structural rigidity.

• Cons: More costly than batts or cellulose, requires careful sealing at joints.

• Eastern Ontario Use: Frequently installed on exterior walls and below-grade foundations to prevent frost penetration.

5. Mineral Wool (Rockwool) Insulation

• Description: Made from spun rock or slag fibers, available in batts or rigid boards.

• Where It’s Used: Walls, attics, floors, around fireplaces.

• Pros: Fire-resistant, soundproofing qualities, water-resistant.

• Cons: Slightly more expensive than fiberglass, heavier to handle.

• Eastern Ontario Use: Increasingly popular for energy retrofits and fire safety upgrades.

Specialized and Less Common Types

• Reflective Foil Insulation: Used in hot climates to reflect radiant heat, less effective in Eastern Ontario but occasionally paired with other insulation in attics.

• Vermiculite Insulation: Found in older homes (especially pre-1990). Some vermiculite contains asbestos, requiring professional removal or encapsulation.

• Natural Fiber Insulation: Cotton, wool, hemp — eco-friendly alternatives, not yet widespread locally.

Climate and Regional Considerations

Ontario building codes set minimum R-values for insulation, but many homeowners exceed these for efficiency. In Eastern Ontario:

• Attics are often insulated to R-50 or higher, since most heat escapes through the roof.

• Basements and foundations are insulated with rigid foam or spray foam to combat frost and moisture.

• Walls typically meet R-20 to R-24 requirements, but modern ICF (insulated concrete forms) or double-stud systems can far exceed that.

Moisture management is just as important as R-value. Vapour barriers, proper ventilation, and air sealing ensure insulation performs well year-round.