Spray foam insulation in Vancouver is one of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient, ecological and comfortable. It has multiple advantages over other insulation materials and methods when applied properly.
“Applied properly” is the key when considering spray foam insulationfoam insulation in Vancouver. You wouldn’t consider hiring an untrained person to do your electricity or install your windows; why would you hire someone untrained to apply spray foam insulation in your Vancouver home? Spray foam insulation is a complex process that requires knowledge, care and experience to apply properly.
Let’s take a look at three elements to take into consideration when applying spray foam insulation in Vancouver:
1. Thickness.
If you spend a little time researching building code requirements for insulation values in ceilings and walls, you’ll notice two things: first, they are constantly changing; and second, minimum insulation values prescribed in building codes are considered sorely deficient by most builders. One rule of thumb put forth is the 10-20-40-60 rule for all homes built in northern climates: R10 under slabs, R20 for foundation walls, R40 for above-grade walls and R60 for roofs—a lot higher than what’s mandated by building codes! A true insulation professional will discuss with you the recommended R-values in ceilings/roofs and walls and consistently apply the appropriate thickness of foam insulation to achieve it!
2. Securing the building envelope.
One of the advantages of spray foam is that it offers a three-for-one: excellent insulation, air tightness and vapour barrier (in the case of closed cell foam). But for it to be effective on all three fronts, it has to be applied impeccably. Every missed spot is a potential heat, air and moisture leak. It can also be tricky identifying the exact location of the building envelope in modern homes (the building envelope defined as the boundary between conditioned and unconditioned space). An inexperienced spray foam insulation applier in Vancouver could easily misidentify the building envelope and spray unnecessarily or miss entire areas where it would be required.
3. Proper application procedure.
There are many factors to take into consideration when applying spray foam, including the ratio of chemicals, proper temperature of substrate and chemicals, thickness of application, proper safety precautions, etc. Improperly applied spray foam insulation can result in off-gassing of irritating chemicals, fishy odours, insulation not adhering properly, gumminess, shrinkage, inadequate R-value and vapour retardation, and decreased yield. It’s all in the application!
Are you looking for a reputable spray insulation contractor in Vancouver, BC? Contact us at Westcor Thermal! At Westcor Thermal we’ve been serving the insulation needs of Western Canadians for over 15 years.