Loading ...Every year as temperatures plunge we return to the age-old feat of staying warm. We unearth our familiar woolies, don knitted slippers, and gradually slip into a 6-8 month hibernation period. This year, why not put extra layers on your house as well?
Insulation Types
Choosing a sweater that brings out your eyes is far easier than selecting and installing one or more layers of insulation in your house. So, let’s start with the basics. Natural Resources Canada has compiled an extensive list of different insulation types, how they work, and what their R-values are. The University of Alaska also has an informative at-a-glance chart (pdf) to easily compare your options, while HGTV’s Ecologue’s snappy insulation overview video is sure to warm you up to the idea.
DIY Insulation Resources
Once you’ve wrapped your head around the insulation type that is best for your home, the following resources will help you brush up on your installation know-how:
- Keeping the Heat In - Comprehensive online guide to insulating your home and saving energy care of Natural Resources Canada.
- Insulating Your House - CMHC style.
- Retrofit Insulation in Existing Wooden Walls (pdf) - Alaska Building Research Series
- Retrofit Insulation in Concrete and Masonry Walls (pdf) - Alaska Building Research Series
Find a Professional
So what if you’re not the DIY type? Simply haul out your trusty Yellow Pages and flip to the ‘Insulation Contractors’ section. I found a bulging six and a half pages of contractor ads and listings in my area, so finding a professional to do the job for you should be a breeze. Remember to get at least three quotes and to find out what’s included. And, it’d be a good idea to review one or more of the above guides as well so you can ask informed questions!
Say ‘Yes’ to Green Insulation Options
Not all insulation materials are created equal. The following products are healthier choices for you, your installer, and the planet.
√ Cellulose Insulation - Made from recycled newspaper, and usually contains non-toxic fire retardants
√ Formaldehyde-free, Recycled Content Fiberglass Insulation
√ Mineral or Rock Wool Insulation - Made from molten slag, (a waste product of steel production) or natural rocks
√ Recycled Cotton Insulation - Your friendly neighbourhood fiber.
√ Soy-based Spray Foam Insulation (Icynene)- Non-petroleum based foam that does not release ozone-damaging CFCs or HCFCs
