What is Spray Foam Insulation and Why is it Popular in Winnipeg?
If you've been through a Winnipeg winter, you'll know how important it is that your house is properly insulated. Not only do you want your home to be warm and comfortable, but I'll bet you're hoping to keep your heating bills to a minimum as well. This is why spray foam insulation is becoming increasingly popular for homeowners in Winnipeg. What exactly is spray foam? What are its benefits compared to other insulation options? What are some signs that you might need to upgrade your insulation? Keep reading to find out.
What is spray foam insulation?
Spray polyurethane foam is a spray-applied product created by two materials (isocyanate and polyol resin). When these materials are combined, they react and expand into a foam up to 60 times their liquid volume. This foam will then harden into the shape of whatever it's been sprayed onto, creating a highly effective insulator while reducing virtually all unwanted air infiltration in cracks and seams.
Types of spray foam insulation:
Closed-Cell Spray Foam: Closed-cell spray foam has much more density and a very high R-value. Because of its glue-like "sticky" adherence, closed-cell foam actually adds to the structural integrity of your walls and ceilings. At Great Canadian Insulation, we primarily use the highest quality closed-cell spray foam.
What are some advantages to spray foam insulation?
When it comes to insulation, you have a lot of options, such as traditional fibreglass, cellulose, or other materials. What makes spray foam the superior choice for your home? Here are some benefits to spray foam insulation.
High R-value: We've mentioned R-value already, so what does this mean? An R-value is a unit to measure an insulating material's resistance to conductive heat flow or its thermal resistance. The higher the R-value, the greater the insulating effectiveness. Closed-cell spray foam has an R-value of around 7. To compare, fibreglass has an R-value of around 3! In Winnipeg, with our cold winters and hot summers, a high R-value is essential.
Lower Energy Bills: The initial investment for spray foam is significantly counterbalanced when it comes to your heating and electrical bills. Because spray foam is such a powerful insulator, it will provide you with huge energy savings – that means a lot of money over time. Not only is this better for your wallet, but it's also better for the environment.
Moisture Barrier and Mould Resistant: Spray foam seals your home and is impermeable to water and vapour. It will not allow moisture to seep in through any cracks and therefore not allow mould to grow and spread in your home.
Long-Lasting: Spray foam doesn't break down or lose its shape over time. It's likely that the material will last for the lifetime of your home.
Better Indoor Air Quality: Spray foam insulation reduces the spread of indoor pollutants such as allergens, dust, and pollen.
Airtight: Spray foam effectively and thoroughly seals all cracks, gaps, seams, and joints.
More Home Comfort: You can say goodbye to cold spots and temperature fluctuations! Because of its seamless, durable barrier, spray foam insulation prevents any air leaks and drafts so you can enjoy a stable temperature, no matter what season it is.
How do I know if my insulation needs replacing?
If you're building a new home, you'll need to think about which type of insulation to choose. But what about your existing home? How do you know that your current insulation needs to be replaced? Here are a few signs that indicate you might want to upgrade to spray foam:
The Temperature in Your Home Is Uneven: If your home always seems too hot or too cold, you have cold drafts throughout your house, or your walls feel cold to the touch, it may be a sign that your insulation is wearing out.
Your Energy Bills Are Too High: If you've noticed your heating bills in winter and electric bills in summer have been creeping upward, it could be because your insulation is no longer doing its job.
Pest Problems: Unfortunately, pests such as rodents or insects like to stay warm and burrow in insulation, causing significant damage as well as health issues.
Moisture Issues: If you're having issues with leaks, condensation, mould, or other moisture issues, it might be a sign you should upgrade to spray foam.
In Winnipeg, we see temperature extremes, with our brutal winters and hot summers. Spray foam insulation is the best defense against the elements, making your living space more comfortable for you and your family. Call us at Great Canadian Insulation for a free quote today!