Renovating your home is an exciting but overwhelming process, especially when it comes to insulation. While it might not be the most glamorous part of a renovation, getting it right can make a huge difference in comfort, energy efficiency, and long-term savings.
If you’re new to home renovations, here’s what you need to know about insulation.
Start with an Energy Assessment
Before tearing out walls or adding new materials, assess your home’s current insulation.
An energy audit can identify gaps, drafts, and areas where heat loss is happening.
Many local utilities offer assessments, and they can help determine whether you need to improve attic insulation, upgrade wall insulation, or focus on sealing air leaks.
Choose the Right Type of Insulation
Not all insulation is the same, and different areas of your home require different types. Here’s a breakdown of common options:
- Fibreglass Batts: A budget-friendly choice that’s easy to install and works well in walls and ceilings.
- Blown-in Cellulose: Great for filling gaps in attics and walls, offering good thermal resistance.
- Spray Foam: Expands to seal cracks and provides excellent moisture control, ideal for damp climates.
- Rigid Foam Boards: Best for basements and exterior walls, offering high R-value and moisture resistance.
Pay Attention to R-Value
R-value measures how well insulation resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulation.
The right R-value depends on your climate and where the insulation is being installed. For instance, attic insulation generally requires a higher R-value than walls to prevent heat loss in winter.
Seal Gaps and Air Leaks
Insulation works best when air leaks are minimized. Before installing new insulation, seal gaps around windows, doors, and electrical outlets with caulking or weather stripping.
Spray foam is useful for sealing small cracks in walls and around plumbing or wiring.
Consider Vapour Barriers
In humid regions, moisture can seep into walls, leading to mould and rot. Vapour barriers help prevent this by controlling moisture movement. They’re especially important in basements and attics where condensation is more likely to occur.
Don’t Forget Soundproofing
While most people think of insulation for temperature control, it also helps with noise reduction. If you’re renovating a home office or bedroom, adding soundproofing insulation to interior walls can make a big difference in reducing noise transfer.
Get Professional Advice When Needed
Some insulation projects are easy DIY jobs, but others—like spray foam application or major attic upgrades—are best left to professionals. Consulting with insulation experts (like us!) ensures the job is done right and meets local building codes.
