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As the weather cools and the leaves begin to fall, homeowners are busy packing up patio furniture and storing away lawn mowers for the seasonal change. Along with the chill comes the risk of cold air sneaking into your home and those dreaded heating bills rising. To avoid shivering on the couch while binge-watching your favourite shows this winter, take a minute to think about your insulation. When was it installed, and is it doing enough to keep you warm? In this blog, we’ll discuss how to keep your home energy-efficient this winter and how spray foam insulation can help, year after year.
Understanding Heat Loss
Before we dive into the benefits of spray foam insulation, let’s understand how heat loss happens. Heat naturally moves from warm places to cool ones. In the winter, this means warm air in your house can sneak out through little gaps and cracks in your walls, attic, basement, and around windows and doors. This can make your home feel chilly and forces your HVAC system to work extra hard, leading to high energy bills.
Why Choose Spray Foam Insulation?
Spray foam insulation expands into the spaces where it’s applied to create an air-tight seal, eliminating gaps that can significantly reduce heat loss. Here’s what makes it stand out from traditional insulation:
- Air Sealing
Spray foam insulation expands during application, filling gaps and crevices that traditional insulation materials often miss. This tight seal keeps warm air inside and cold air outside, effectively preventing drafts. - High R-Value
Spray foam insulation, especially closed-cell, has a higher R-value per inch compared to other insulation materials. This means better thermal resistance, improved energy efficiency, and lower heating costs. - Moisture & Vapour Control
Winter isn’t just about the cold, it can also bring moisture challenges with snow and ice. Spray foam acts as a barrier against moisture and vapour, helping to prevent damage from mould and condensation that could lead to costly repairs. When spray foam is applied in attics, it can stop ice dams from forming on your roof. - Long-lasting
Unlike traditional insulation, spray foam is not prone to losing R-value or sagging over time, ensuring that your home remains well-protected for years to come. Less maintenance will give you peace of mind knowing that your insulation will perform as well as it did on the day of installation.
Preparing Your Home for Winter:
Ready to make your home energy-efficient this winter? Here are some steps to get you started:
- Prepare Your Heating System
Run your heating system early in the season to ensure it operates efficiently before the cold weather arrives. By being proactive, you can avoid calling your HVAC company for emergency maintenance right in the middle of extreme weather. - Schedule an Energy Audit
Consider an EnerGuide evaluation by a registered energy advisor. They can pinpoint areas of heat loss and recommend tailored solutions for your home. - Seal Windows and Doors
Check around your windows and doors for any gaps. If the weather stripping or caulking is old or damaged, it’s time for a re-sealing. - Start with the Attic
An inadequately insulated attic can contribute to heat loss of up to 25%! Since heat rises, improving attic insulation is a smart first step. Closed-cell foam also acts as a vapour barrier, and can prevent ice dams in winter. - Book Professional Installation
Remember, spray foam insulation is a job for the pros. It requires specialized equipment and certified applicators, and it’s definitely not a DIY project! Read our blog on how to find the best contractor in your area. - Look for Grants and Rebates
Home renovations can get pricey, but don’t forget to look for government programs that offer rebates or loans for energy-efficient upgrades. Check out Natural Resources Canada for available assistance.
Photo: Supreme Tech Insulation Inc.
Imagine waking up on a cold morning and stepping onto a warm floor instead of a chilly one. With spray foam insulation, you can keep your home comfortable during those long winter nights, all while cutting your heating costs. Plus, the savings on your heating bills means you’ll have extra money in your wallet to splurge on takeout on those cozy nights in! Don’t wait for the first snow to hit—get ahead of the game and make sure your home is ready for winter. Reach out to us today to find out how spray foam insulation can turn your space into a warm retreat for the colder months.
