Summer will be here soon, and yes – summer is a good time to add insulation, especially in a cold climate like Winnipeg, as it allows for comfortable temperatures before winter sets in and before contractors become busy. Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining energy efficiency, reducing noise, and improving the comfort of your home.
If you’re having some home renovations done, this can be a good time to ‘top up’ the insulation in other areas of your house. And if you’re doing something more extensive like a home addition or turning an unfinished basement into a comfortable living space, choosing the right insulation is key.
In this blog, All Canadian Renovations will explore five common insulation types: fibreglass, mineral wool, cellulose, spray foam, and acoustic insulation. We’ll cover their benefits, disadvantages, and the best places to use each one.
A quick note: each type of insulation has positive qualities and potential downfalls, but it really depends on how and where each is used.
All Canadian Renovations will never recommend the wrong product for your home based on lowest cost. We will only use the best quality materials within your budget, and won’t ever use products that we know may cause issues down the road!
1. Fibreglass Insulation
Fibreglass insulation is one of the most widely used insulation materials due to its affordability and effectiveness. It is known for being a cost-effective option that provides good thermal performance, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. Additionally, fibreglass insulation is non-combustible, which adds an extra layer of fire protection to buildings.
Despite its benefits, fibreglass insulation has some disadvantages. It is sensitive to moisture and can absorb water, which may lead to mold and mildew problems over time – which is why All Canadian Renovations will only install it in dry areas and with proper moisture barriers in place.
This type of insulation is best suited for use in walls, ceilings, and floors, and is also a great option for attics and basements where an affordable insulation solution is needed.
| Benefits: |
|
2. Mineral Wool Insulation
Mineral wool insulation offers superior fire resistance compared to other insulation types. It is completely non-combustible and can withstand high temperatures, making it a preferred choice for fire-prone areas.
In addition to its fire-resistant properties, mineral wool also provides excellent soundproofing, making it ideal for reducing noise in residential and commercial buildings. Unlike fibreglass, mineral wool does not absorb water, which helps prevent mold growth and ensures long-term durability. It also has a higher R-value, meaning it offers better thermal resistance.
On the downside, mineral wool insulation tends to be more expensive than fibreglass – but when used properly the benefits far outweigh the additional costs!
Mineral wool insulation is commonly used in exterior walls, ceilings, and floors in areas where fire safety is a concern. Home theatres and home offices can also benefit from mineral wool insulation due to its superior acoustic properties.
| Benefits: |
|
3. Cellulose Insulation
Cellulose insulation is an eco-friendly option made from recycled paper, making it one of the most sustainable insulation materials available. It provides excellent thermal performance, filling gaps effectively and preventing air leakage. Another advantage of cellulose insulation is its ability to dampen noise transmission, making it a decent choice for soundproofing. It is also treated with chemicals that help deter pests and provide some level of fire resistance.
It is prone to absorbing moisture, which can lead to mold growth and a reduction in its insulation value; and over time, cellulose insulation may also settle which can decrease its effectiveness if not properly maintained.
However, when installed properly and for the right spaces, blown-in cellulose can be an excellent choice.
This type of insulation is best suited for attics, particularly when retrofitting older homes. It is also a great option for those who prioritize eco-friendly materials and need improved air sealing in their living spaces.
| Benefits: |
|
4. Spray Foam Insulation
Spray foam insulation is known for having the highest R-value among insulation materials, making it one of the best options for thermal resistance. It acts as both an air and moisture barrier, effectively sealing gaps and cracks to prevent drafts and moisture intrusion. Additionally, spray foam insulation maintains its performance for decades without sagging or settling.
Spray foam insulation is one of the most expensive options on the market; however, for the right applications it simply can’t be beat.
Spray foam insulation is best used in attics and crawl spaces where air sealing is a top priority. It is also an excellent choice for walls in new construction projects, as it provides maximum insulation efficiency. In basements and rim joists, spray foam helps prevent air leaks and moisture infiltration, ensuring better energy efficiency and protection against mold.
| Benefits: |
|
5. Acoustic Insulation
Acoustic insulation are materials designed to reduce sound transmission between spaces. They help to absorb, block, or dampen sound waves, preventing noise from traveling through walls, floors, and ceilings.
Because it is highly effective at reducing echoes and noise transmission, acoustic insulation is ideal for environments where sound control is important, such as home theatres and home office spaces. It is also commonly used in multi-unit homes and can be a good choice if you are creating a rental space in your home like a basement suite, and want to add more privacy.
Though some types of regular home insulation do provide a level of sound dampening (such as mineral wool) acoustic insulation is designed specifically to reduce sounds and typically can’t be used as a substitute for traditional insulation materials.
| Benefits: |
|
Conclusion
Choosing the right insulation depends on your specific needs, whether it be thermal efficiency, fire resistance, soundproofing, or sustainability.
Fibreglass and mineral wool are versatile choices that work well in many applications, while cellulose insulation is ideal for those seeking an eco-friendly option.
Spray foam provides the highest level of insulation; and acoustic insulation, while not meant for thermal insulation, is a great choice for improving sound control.
On the surface, the choices can seem daunting. But as always, the team at All Canadian Renovations will listen to your home renovation goals, make sure we understand your vision and priorities, and work with you to make the best decisions to create a more comfortable, energy-efficient, and quiet living space for you and your family.