Whether you’re planning a new home build or looking to renovate, installing the right insulation plays a key role in how healthy and energy-efficient your home will be in the long-term. If you require cost-effective insulation that does the job better than other options on the market, spray foam insulation is the ideal choice for you.
There are several different methods and materials available for keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient — so why spray foam insulation? No matter what your new home’s requirements, spray foam insulation is a dynamic choice, suitable for nearly any home. In this guide, we’ll discuss the benefits of spray foam insulation and why you should use it.
Spray Foam Insulation vs. Fibreglass
When most Toronto homeowners think of insulation, an image of pink fibreglass appears in their mind’s eye. That’s to be expected — fibreglass insulation, or glass wool, is inexpensive and takes up a significant portion of the North American insulation market.
Despite its popularity, homeowners and builders alike are beginning to notice its ineffectiveness, especially during cold Canadian winters. Fibreglass quickly loses heat and its integrity if exposed to moisture. With direct contact, exposed fibreglass can also cause adverse health effects like irritation in the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as difficulty breathing.
Once professionally installed and cured, spray foam insulation carries no health risks. It is also permanent – it does a better job of keeping out air and moisture and improves the structural integrity of your walls and roof.
Types of Spray Foam Insulation
There are two main types of spray foam insulation on the market today: open-cell and closed-cell. The former is cheaper, less dense, and better for blocking out noise. The latter is denser and better at keeping out air and moisture, making it the perfect choice for creating an effective thermal envelope. Installers often suggest closed-cell insulation for the roof and exterior walls, and open-cell insulation for the interior walls of the home.
The Benefits of Spray Foam Insulation
There are several reasons home builders suggest the use of spray foam insulation:
Better Temperature Regulation
Spray foam doesn’t just protect against moisture and air leakage — it helps regulate the temperature of your entire home. Unlike other forms of insulation, which use blocks that must be cut perfectly to fit your walls, spray foams can be applied anywhere. You can fill every crack and crevice of your attic. Once it dries, it expands and dries, providing a perfect barrier that traps in the heat or cold that your HVAC system provides.
Saved Energy
With an improved thermal envelope, your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to replace any escaped temperature-regulated air. This saved electricity, a greener home, and lower monthly hydro payments.
No Mould
Spray foam insulation is highly water-resistant. Without the necessary moisture, no mould or mildew can grow. With less moisture to worry about, the risk of developing mould-related health issues drastically decreases.
Improved Structural Integrity
Closed-cell insulation can strengthen your roof and your walls, well above the minimum load-bearing standard. This insulation provides extra hold and adds an extra protective layer that will increase the value of your home. You’ll also never have to worry about your roof during the next call for heavy snowfall or strong winds.
Pest Prevention
Even the smallest crevice could leave your home vulnerable to bugs and rodents. Other forms of insulation can be torn through, but spray foam provides a solid wall that will barricade any tiny intruders from permeating your home.
Better ROI
Over time, fibreglass will sag. Styrofoam insulation will break down. Though these options are cheaper to install, they’ll eventually need to be replaced. Spray foam insulation is a larger initial investment, but once installed, you’ll never have to worry about it again. You’ll earn back the money you spend on spray foam insulation in the form of a reduced electric bill, and a more comfortable home overall.
Interested in learning more about installing spray foam insulation to your current or future home? GenCorp Homes is here to help. Give us a call today or send us an email to get started.
