Is Spray Foam Insulation in Ontario Worth the Cost Over Traditional Fiberglass?

If you are looking into insulating an area of your home or business, you will quickly discover that you have a number of insulation options to choose from. Certain types of insulation products have different benefits or are better for particular situations, and it can sometimes be difficult to determine if one type of insulation is better than the other.

A common inquiry we get is whether or not spray foam insulation, which comes with a number of benefits, is worth the higher cost compared traditional fiberglass batt insulation.

To be certain that spray foam insulation in Ontario is the right choice for your insulated space, you should know the basic differences between spray foam and fiberglass insulation and the benefits of choosing one over the other.

Understanding fiberglass insulation

Fiberglass insulation is one of the most widely used insulation materials available. It is made out of fine glass fibers. Blankets of fiberglass insulation, known as batts, are pre-cut into certain sizes and thicknesses and are commonly found in walls and attics. Fiberglass is one of the cheapest insulation types available, which makes it a popular option for most homeowners with any size budget.

Fiberglass batts are relatively easy to install by both do-it-yourselfers and professionals. However, it is also very easy to install fiberglass batts incorrectly, potentially leaving gaps between the walls, which allow cold air to seep through. It can also allow moisture through, which causes mold.

Despite its popularity and low cost, fiberglass insulation comes with many issues. Due to the high possibility of incorrect installation and a lower R-value (resistance to airflow), fiberglass is less energy efficient and can result in higher heating bills. Fiberglass also settles faster and breaks down, meaning that it doesn’t last as long and gets less efficient over time.

Spray foam insulation and its benefits

Spray foam insulation is a newer, more advanced type of insulation that offers homeowners a host of benefits. It is made from recycled plastics and vegetable oil, meaning it’s very environmentally friendly. Spray foam is sprayed into an area you want to insulate and expands, filling all nooks and crannies. Spray foam insulation is great for hard-to-reach or oddly shaped spaces.

Spray foam insulation is considerably more efficient than fiberglass insulation and works better in extremely cold conditions. It is also permanent and does not break down over time, meaning that it is extremely long lasting and consistently efficient. Even better, certain types prevent mold and mildew growth and rodent infestation, which are common problems with fiberglass insulation.

The major downside to spray foam insulation is that it is expensive. Spray foam costs considerably more than fiberglass insulation and often requires a professional to install. However, the longevity and higher R-value of spray foam insulation make it well worth the cost in the long run, as you will have lower heating bills due to decreased cold air and will not need to replace or add new insulation repeatedly.

If you are interested in spray foam insulation in Ontario, contact Chase Insulation. We are experts at insulation installation and have over 35 years of experience delivering quality service. We offer a variety of insulation products and services and can handle even the toughest of jobs. Call us today for a free estimate!