Fixing Attic Insulation in Saint-Lazare, QC before the upcoming winter
Challenge
This attic in Saint-Lazare had significant issues with unsealed air leaks and inadequate insulation, creating vulnerability to heat loss and moisture accumulation. During the inspection, air leaks were found mainly around cable entry points, allowing warm air from below to escape into the attic, reducing the home's energy efficiency. This led to inconsistent indoor temperatures and forced the heating system to work harder, resulting in higher energy consumption and thus higher Hydro bills. The existing insulation did not meet regional thermal standards in terms of thermal value (R-Value), accelerating heat loss and potentially causing frozen pipes and ice dams. Additionally, the combination of unsealed air leaks and poor insulation encouraged condensation, as warm air from the living spaces cooled rapidly in the attic. Over time, this moisture buildup can lead to mold growth, damaging the attic structure and degrading indoor air quality.
Solution
Removing the existing insulation is a very important step because it reveals hidden problems, such as deteriorated insulation that has lost its thermal efficiency. Old insulation can also conceal air leaks and moisture damage, contributing to thermal inefficiency and mold growth. By removing the old material, we can spot any mold spores, or water damage caused by condensation or previous air leaks. Sealing air leaks is essential, as these leaks waste energy and create uncomfortable drafts and uneven temperatures within the house. We used ZypFoam, an industrial-grade polyurethane foam, to seal all identified air leaks, which expands upon application. Finally, we installed TruSoft cellulose insulation, known for its high thermal performance and resistance to fire and mold, at a thickness of 16 inches to provide an R60 thermal value, ensuring optimal protection against heat loss during winter.
