Attic Insulation Questions From Kanata Homeowners

Natural Resources Canada suggests about R-60 for attics in the Ottawa area. The Ontario Building Code usually targets R-60 for attics in new homes, and the rebate program asks for at least R-50.

Roughly 17 inches of blown cellulose or a little over 20 inches of blown fiberglass. The exact depth comes from the chart on the product's bag, and we set rulers in the attic so you can see it.

Yes, a little, mostly in the first months. We blow slightly above the target height so the attic still reaches its R-value after it settles.

Cellulose is treated with borate, which makes it less inviting to insects and rodents, but no loose fill keeps mice out on its own. Sealing the entry points on the outside of the house is what stops them.

In most Kanata attics, the ceiling already has its vapour barrier and drywall below. What matters more is sealing the air leaks through that ceiling before the cellulose attic insulation goes on.

Only when it is wet, mouldy, soiled by animals or possibly vermiculite. Dry, clean insulation stays and counts toward the new total, which keeps the price down.

Most Kanata homes pay $1,200 to $3,500. Top-ups land near $1.25 to $3 a square foot of ceiling, and a clear-out with a refill near $3 to $5.50.

The Home Renovation Savings program offers attic rebates through two paths, with different rules about who may do the work. Our rebate page explains both, and the program's website has the current terms.

That could be vermiculite, and some vermiculite carries asbestos. Leave it alone until a lab has tested a sample. If asbestos shows up, an asbestos abatement firm handles the removal, and the attic is insulated after it is cleared.

Joists sticking up out of the fill mean the attic insulation is too thin. Big icicles, frosty nail tips and an upstairs that swings from chilly to stuffy point the same way.