Quiet But Mighty: All You Need To Know About Home Insulation
Spray foam keeps out pests, moisture, and helps regulate your home’s temperature
When it’s scorching hot outside, you’re not thinking much about that insulation working hard inside to keep you cool. But it’s there - doing its job - in your walls, down in the crawl space and up in your attic! It’s a humble, quiet material but does the work of giants. Find out if your insulation is up to snuff.
Why should I care about my building insulation?
It’s simple: modern insulation keeps cooler air inside in the summer and outside in the winter. Reverse it if you like: modern insulation keeps warm air outside in the summer and inside in the winter. It’s a remarkable home improvement tool and especially important for the dramatic climates we have here in the Okanagan.
Can good insulation help my energy bills?
Yes! With upgrades, most homeowners report savings of at least 10% on their heating and cooling bills with that number climbing as high at 50% in some cases. What’s more, there are some amazing home energy rebates through Fortis BC and BC Hydro’s Home Renovation Rebate Program (HRRP) that can help you save even more money on critical insulation upgrades to you home. Explore here for more to find out how you might be eligible for 60% to 95% off rebate.
Wow. Tell me more about insulation!
There are various types of insulation available but the most common applications are batt and poly, loose-fill or blown in insulation, spray foam or thermal acoustic.
Spray foam is sprayed into walls, floors and your attic. It seals up any cracks or gaps to keep pests and other critters from entering. It can also act as a vapour barrier to fight moisture and that dreaded mould. Spray foam can also muffle annoying sound where it’s needed. Think: that busy road outside or a neighbour who plays the drums.
Some of it seems technical. What’s the R-value that I’ve read about?
The R-value is an insulation measurement that tells you how well that insulation will keep heat from leaving or entering your home. The values are based on the type, thickness and density of the insulation. A higher R-value is typically better but your insulation contractor can discuss the most effective types with you for the different parts of your home.
I’m ready for insulation upgrades! What should I do next?
Check here to learn about Fortis BC and BC Hydro rebates, as well as the Canada Greener Home Grant. There are so many ways to save on your insulation upgrades!
OKI is a registered insulation contractor for these programs and has been serving the BC Interior with thousands of projects for over 40 years. The staff are excited to help you on your way to a cooler summer home and a warmer winter space!