How to insulate an attic properly in Quebec

Challenge

Mr. John had noticed that the upstairs bedrooms were much colder than the other rooms and the energy costs in his house were getting higher than before. This was due to air leaks present in the attic. These air leaks come from  holes, joints that were not sealed during insulation. The heated air normally escapes much faster from the room and this will eventually cost an increase in  electricity costs.

During the inspection of the attic carried out by our specialist Toufic, mold and rot on the structure of the attic were noted. What was the cause? Well, it is actually the lack of ventilation in the attic that increases the humidity and causes the wood to mold and rot. This can in the long term damage the roof and cause water infiltration.

Solution

Mr. John contacted Systèmes Éconergie to get a quote to redo the complete insulation of his attic.

First, our foreman Colin and his team removed the fiberglass insulation to seal all the air leaks on the attic floor. With expanded polyurethane foam, they sealed the joints, the holes and around the electrical boxes.

To solve the ventilation problem, they added batts in the attic soffits. This will allow air circulation and keep the soffits clear.

Finally they blew 17” of cellulose to achieve a thermal value of R60. The R60 value ensures maximum comfort for the home and energy savings.

Project Summary

City: Baie-D'urfe

Problem: Humid attic

solution: Cellulose insulation