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Regardless of house size, it’s important for a homeowner to understand how home insulation works. In simple terms, home insulation impedes “heat transfer” – this is what insulation experts refer to as “heat flow”. Heat flow is undesirable in any home. It means that in winter, indoor heat is escaping, and in summer, outdoor heat is coming indoors. Both of these scenarios create energy loss and result in high utility bills. Effective insulation simply prevents “heat flow”.
In Elgin County, and throughout the many surrounding communities, homeowners have various insulation products to choose from. The options range from fibreglass loose fill insulation, to fibreglass batt insulation, to spray foam insulation. The aim of every insulation product is the same: to stop “heat flow”. This will reduce energy usage from season to season, and will therefore reduce annual energy costs. Overall, insulation enhances R-Value and prevents air movement.
Fibreglass insulation is a popular option for residential homes. Fibreglass batt insulation is a commonly used application in the attic and roof cavity. Fibreglass loose fill insulation is blown into large spaces like the attic, and can be effective when blown into wall cavities. Both of these products provide satisfactory R-Value, and both contribute to overall energy efficiency. The lifespan for these insulation products is good, and performance is maintained for many years.
When it comes to proper installation, fibreglass products require expertise. The batts need to be strategically installed to ensure performance. The loose fill product must also be installed properly – the material must be dispersed uniformly, and with perfect concentration/density. Both fibreglass products are effective when used to “top up” existing insulation. A professional install will ensure a “thermal blanket” that will reduce air movement and insulate effectively.
Generally, fibreglass loose fill insulation and fibreglass batt insulation don’t retain water. Small amounts of water evaporate quite quickly. As well, neither product will settle significantly, and insulation values are maintained long term. Fibreglass insulation is safe in residential application, and provides a finished space that is completely odor-free, non-corrosive, and non-combustible.
Once installed, fibreglass insulation does not promote mold growth or fungus growth. In addition, the insulation material does not provide a welcome environment for insects or rodents seeking shelter. In a dry and well-ventilated space, neither of the fibreglass insulation products should decay. Both products (loose fill and batts) are an affordable installation option for homeowners.
When fibreglass insulation is professionally installed, it can provide a cost-effective option for home insulation. A home is provided with long-term performance, at a reasonable price point.
Without a professional install, fibreglass insulation may pose some performance limitations. These limitations can be overcome when an install is expertly managed. As such, air movement and air moisture issues can be addressed during the install. With a good contractor, homeowners can be informed of various retrofits to counter any performance issues with the fibreglass.
Fibreglass batt insulation and fibreglass loose-fill insulation permit a certain amount of air movement once installed. While this is unfavorable, there are measures that can minimize the air movement. This is especially relevant in the attic, where air leakage must be eliminated for insulation to perform. Here again, an expert contractor can mitigate any performance issues.
When addressing the shortcomings of fibreglass, insulation professionals are recommending spray foam as another option. Spray foam insulation creates an airtight, seamless barrier that will overcome many of the problems associated with fibreglass. Unlike fibreglass insulation products, spray foam will effectively seal an entire space, including all holes, gaps, cracks, and crevices.
For professionals, the big challenge with insulation is to stop air leakage. Spray foam addresses this challenge successfully, effectively stopping air leakage. In the attic and basement, spray foam provides a completely airtight environment that enhances energy efficiency, reduces energy consumption, and lessens energy bills from season to season, in both winter and summer.
For professionals in the field, spray foam has proven to be superior when compared to other installations. A good install delivers excellent R-Values, prevents air movement, and stops moisture from accumulating. In short, spray foam offers many more benefits than anything comparable. It has become the so-called “product of choice” for many insulation professionals.
As a premium product, spray foam does not suit every budget. As such, the experts at Great Northern Insulation recommend the “hybrid” install to some homeowners. Here, a fibreglass insulation product is strategically combined with a spray foam application. Installing these products in tandem allows for excellent insulation outcomes, all within a cost-effective budget.
For homeowners living in Elgin County, the “hybrid” install may be a good option for achieving optimum energy efficiency and reducing seasonal utility costs. What’s important, however, is to work with a professional installer - a reputable contractor who will recommend the best product for the job, and will make every effort to ensure the best return on the project investment.
In Elgin County, local homeowners can rely on Great Northern Insulation for the best quality products and the highest standard of installation. GNI recommends products that best suit the job, with everything installed according to the established building code. There are no unnecessary shortcuts, and every job is covered by the manufacturer’s product warranty.
With Great Northern Insulation, the focus is on 100% customer satisfaction – every installation ensures a warmer home in winter and a cooler home in summer. If necessary, problems are dealt with speedily, and a GNI Customer Service Representative will assess all of the work performed. Problem issues are resolved to construction standards, and with no cost to the homeowner.
With Great Northern Insulation, homeowners are assured that every install is done right the first time around. To arrange for an in-house appointment anywhere in Elgin County, along with a home energy assessment (FREE) call 1-888-778-9591. For information about GNI products and services, visit the company website at www.gni.ca .
935 Keyes Drive
Woodstock, Ontario
Canada N4V 1C3
Phone: 1-800-265-1914
Fax: (519) 539-7946
TOLL FREE: 1-800-265-1914
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Comber, Ontario
Canada N0P 1J0
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Gravenhurst, Ontario
Canada P1P 1R1
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Barrie, Ontario
Canada L4N 9V5
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Port Perry, Ontario
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Canada L9T 5A6
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Nepean, ON
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Sarnia Ontario
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L2G 0B4
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Best of 2017
From reputation to responsiveness, HomeStars consistently ranks Great Northern Insulation at better than 95% for customer satisfaction. Thanks to everyone for the great ratings!
Best of 2018
For the second year in a row, HomeStars consistently ranks Great Northern Insulation at better than 95% for customer satisfaction. Thank you again to everyone!
Best of 2019
For the third year in a row, HomeStars ranked Great Northern Insulation at better than 95% for customer satisfaction.
Best of 2020
For four years now, HomeStars has ranked Great Northern Insulation at better than 95% for customer satisfaction.
Energy Saving
Energy saving and energy efficiency is easier than one might think. Great Northern Insulation helps to identify performance issues, while taking advantage of improvement opportunities.
100% Canadian
Great Northern Insulation is recognized as Canada's largest full-service insulation contractor. GNI is 100% Canadian owned, proudly serving Ontario customers since 1980.
Do it right the first time
- with foam mastersTM
WALLTITE® ECO™ is a high-performance system, professionally installed by certified and approved specialists. Its C.C.M.C. approved (Canadian Construction Materials Centre) - with product quality guaranteed - and with installation by highly trained experts with the technical know-how to do the job right, the first time.
The GREENGUARD®
Gold Certification promise
GREENGUARD® Gold Certification ensures the strictest criteria for low-level chemical emissions. Certified products are safe for individuals with sensitivities (children/elderly) and safe for use in school environments and health-care facilities. The product certification is widely recognized by the LEED Rating System (Leadership in Energy/Environmental Design).
Insulthane® Extreme
For the ultimate in high performance spray foam insulation, Insulthane® Extreme is the professional choice for residential, commercial, and industrial application. With improved thermal performance over other products, Insulthane® Extreme has an exceptionally low Global Warming Potential (GWP). Considered environmentally friendly, this next generation spray foam insulation is non-ozone depleting, and exceeds specifications of other HFC product alternatives.
ECOLOGOTM:
Multi-attribute product certification
ECOLOGOTM is an accredited sign of environmental performance – holistic – green – sustainable - and compliant with strict, third party standards. Life cycle criteria for product certification may include manufacturing and operations; health and environment; product materials and performance; and product innovation, development, and management.
3MTM products.
Quality + Performance = Savings
3MTM energy-saving products are designed to keep warm air in, and cold air out, while keeping energy bills down. Products optimize energy efficiency in buildings and homes; improve indoor environment for occupants; and effect the reduction of seasonal energy costs. 3M products are authorized for LEED credits (Leadership in Energy/Environmental Design).
Baeumler ApprovedTM
Professional, Certified and Insured
Baeumler ApprovedTM gives you peace of mind when connecting with contractors, trades and home service providers. All Baeumler Approved members have demonstrated high quality work for customers and other trade professionals. Members must also have Workers Compensation, liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 and prove professional certification.
Holmes and Holmes
Mike Holmes and his son Mike Jr. (MJ) convert MJ’s bachelor bungalow into a two-storey home for MJ and his girlfriend Lisa. Choosing the newest materials and build techniques, the father and son team follow Mike’s famous motto – “Make it right.” The show can be watched on HGTV and DIY Network.
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