Insulation Hamilton gets a lot of questions based on the R-Value, which measures the material’s thermal resistance. Its R-Value indicates the material’s insulating capabilities; a greater value indicates better performance. The recommended R-Value for attic insulation (see our Ultimate Guide for Attic Insulation) in Ontario ranges between R-50 and R-60. Consider also looking at our Ultimate Guide for Spray Foam Insulation as well.
But why exactly is it so necessary to have insulation in Hamilton, Ontario? Throughout the year, Hamilton is subject to a wide range of climatic conditions, including shifts in temperature, humidity, precipitation, and snowfall. Insulation plays a role in regulating the temperature inside your home, helping maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year. In addition, it prevents heat loss or gain, lowering your overall energy consumption and your monthly utility bills.
R Values per Inch
The two primary types of attic insulation are loose-fill material (also known as blown-in insulation) and batting. Here are the approximate R-Values per inch for common types of insulation:
Loose-fill Cellulose is between 3.1 – 3.8
Loose-fill Fibreglass is between 2.2 – 2.9
Loose-fill Stone Wool is between 2.2 – 3.3
Fiberglass Batting is between 2.9 – 3.8
Stone Wool Batting is between
3.3 – 4.2
Between 5.6 and 8.0 for polyurethane foam,
Between 2.0 and 3.9 for cementitious foam
These values should be used as an essential reference, but the actual R-Value of the insulation will depend on several different considerations.
In Hamilton, Ontario, the recommended R-Values for attic insulation depend on your specific zone. Here are the recommended R-Values for different zones in Ontario:
Zone 1 and Zone 2
R-Value recommended from R-60 to R-80.
It’s crucial to adhere to the recommended R-Values for insulation defined by the Ontario Building Code. Before undertaking any insulation work, it’s usually a good idea to speak with your local building department to guarantee compliance with the standards and to validate the thermal resistance requirements.
Building Codes and Brands
In 2019, an amendment was made to the standards for required insulation levels within the Ontario Building Code. These alterations were made to improve the energy efficiency of homes, and the update included two significant changes: continuous insulation and attic insulation.
Continuous insulation includes insulating every corner of a house to prevent the creation of thermal bridges and maximize the effectiveness of the insulation. In addition, the requirements for attic insulation have been modernized, and the recommended R-Value has been increased from R-50 to R-60.
It is essential to take into consideration the following factors that influence the performance of insulation to ensure that attic insulation is installed correctly:
Choose a Reputable Brand: When selecting a brand, be sure to look for one with a history of excellent performance and consider any third-party certifications.
Installation
Ensuring the insulation is installed correctly is necessary to ensure its efficacy. Seek professional aid for the most outstanding results, as it entails issues like air barriers, thermal bridges, and vapor retarders.
Before adding insulation, it is vital to address any concerns that may exist in the attic, including but not limited to under-insulated vent pipes; under-ventilated spaces; architectural issues; and air leaks.
Density and Thickness
The density and thickness of the insulation partially determine the effectiveness of the insulation. Settlement and architectural constraints should be considered when determining the appropriate density and thickness.
In conclusion, even though the recommended R-Value for attic insulation in Hamilton, Ontario, ranges from R-50 to R-60, there are many factors to consider when determining the appropriate insulation for your home to get the best results. It is strongly recommended that you look into hiring a professional who possesses experience, training, and certification.