Fibreglass Batt Insulation and Fibreglass Loose Fill Insulation in Elgin, Ontario

Understanding Home Insulation

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 Products

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.

Fibreglass Insulation Benefits

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.

The Limitations of Fibreglass

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.

Another Option - Spray Foam Insulation

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.

The Best Option - a Hybrid Install

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.

Working with Great Northern Insulation

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 .