performance & comfort
insulation
Quality, performance, energy-efficiency, &comfort
Not all insulation is created equal, nor are all insulation installers.
Like everything else we do at thinkBright, we select for quality, performance, comfort, and for environmental impact.
As a qualified insulation contractor, we have the experience and building science expertise to ensure that when we complete an insulation retrofit in your home, you won’t wind up with stale air, leaks, off-gassing, and poor performance (or an ironically high carbon footprint).
Thermal performance
Will the insulation make your home more comfortable at extreme temperatures when you really need it? Styrofoam products lose their performance in extreme heat and cold – exactly when you need them the most. Wood fibre board, blown-in cellulose, and mineral are almost always better options.
Moisture Management
Will the insulation trap moisture in the walls, attic, or basement, causing rot and poor indoor quality? Many insulations are “vapour impermeable” – this means that once moisture gets in, it can’t get out. We almost always choose vapour permeable insulation so we keep your home dry and safe for the long haul.
Longevity
How will the new insulation perform over time? Many foam insulations (e.g., spray foam, EPS/XPS foam board) lose their performance over time as they crack and degrade. This is why we typically choose loose fill and natural materials such as wood fibre and cellulose insulations.
Environmental Impact
Will the insulation be non-toxic in your home, and low impact on the environment? Many insulations are toxic, with ironically high energy and carbon footprints. We aim to choose insulation products that will lower your energy use, keep you comfortable year round, and leave a lighter touch on the planet.
product and Installation
What Kinds of Insulation do we use?
Attics:
We typically choose blown-in cellulose insulation such as this. Cellulose is an excellent insulator made from mostly post-consumer paper. It has the added benefit of helping to reduce costly air leakage. Like any insulation, cellulose must be expertly installed. The best time to re-insulate your attic is today! This is often the lowest cost, fastest way to improve the comfort and energy efficiency of your home, and typically takes a day.
Crawl Spaces and Basements:
Your home’s moisture and energy profile plus the details of your foundation will determine what kind of insulation we’d prescribe – we typically select from rigid foam board, rockwool, or wood fibre, but almost never spray foam. In this application we are looking for the right product to manage moisture, reduce air leakage and energy loss through walls and floors, and protect indoor air quality and the environment. Each home needs the right insulation “prescription”.
Like attics, the best time to upgrade the insulation in your basement or crawl space is today.
Exterior Over-Insulation:
(or “out-sulation”) we typically select wood fibre insulation. Wood Fiber hits all the right marks: low carbon, high performance in all temperatures, highly fire resistant, and easy to install. For a lower cost installation, we may opt for mineral wool batt insulation. Over insulation can dramatically improve the comfort and efficiency of your home, but it’s a big job.
The best time to over-insulate your home is when you are going to replace the siding.
At thinkBright Homes we believe that everybody should live in a well built, energy efficient, non-toxic home.
Over 20 years we have developed a proven and certified approach to superior building for every client, without a punch in the pocket-book.
thinkBright Homes Ltd.
Insulation FAQ
Find answers to common questions about insulation for your home.
Why is insulation important for my home?
Insulation helps regulate the temperature in your home, keeping it warm in winter and cool in summer. It also reduces energy costs by improving efficiency.
What are the benefits of upgrading insulation?
Upgrading insulation can lead to lower energy bills, increased comfort, and a reduced carbon footprint. It’s a smart investment for your home.
How do I know if my home needs more insulation?
Signs include fluctuating indoor temperatures, high energy bills, and drafts. An energy audit can help determine if your home needs more insulation.
What types of insulation are best for energy efficiency?
The TYPE of insulation matters far less than the amount (R-Value) and suitability of the materials for each application, and the conditions of the area it is being applied in.
Can I install insulation myself?
While DIY insulation is possible, it’s recommended to hire professionals for optimal results and safety. Proper installation is crucial for effectiveness.
The greenest, most cost-effective home is the one you’re already in.
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