Cracking the Code: R-Value Demystified for Energy-Efficient Canadian Homes

R-values for Different Elements of a Home

Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is crucial for energy efficiency because significant heat loss occurs in this area. In every home I have ever owned it’s the first area I look to upgrade. As small canucks we are all taught to have a warm toque on our head in the winter, because heat rises and that’s where we loose so much of our own warmth. Our homes are the same, and attics are the best places to upgrade our ‘toques’! In Canada, the recommended minimum R-value for attic insulation, as per the building codes, is R-50. This level of insulation prevents heat from escaping in the winter and entering during the summer, reducing energy consumption.

One common type of insulation used in Canadian attics is blown-in insulation, also known as loose-fill insulation. It provides effective coverage and insulation value. To achieve specific R-values, here are some approximate depth ranges for popular loose-fill insulation materials:

R-20 insulation requires a depth of around 8-9 inches (20-23 cm).

R-40 insulation generally needs a depth of 16-18 inches (41-46 cm).

R-50 insulation typically requires a depth of about 20-23 inches (51-58 cm).

Keep in mind that these recommended depths are approximate and can vary based on the specific insulation material and manufacturer guidelines.

·         Fiberglass: Fiberglass loose-fill insulation has an approximate R-value of R-2.5 to R-3.5 per inch, depending on the density of the material.

·         Cellulose: Cellulose loose-fill insulation typically has an approximate R-value of R-3.5 to R-3.8 per inch. It provides slightly higher insulation value compared to fiberglass.

·         Mineral Wool: Mineral wool loose-fill insulation has an approximate R-value of R-3.0 to R-3.3 per inch. It is comparable to fiberglass insulation in terms of insulation value.

In many countries like Canada and the United States, the use of asbestos in insulation materials began to decline in the 1970s due to increased awareness of its health risks. However, there may still be instances where older stockpiles of insulation containing asbestos were used for several years after these regulations were implemented. While there is no specific cutoff year for when asbestos was commonly used in blown-in insulation, it is generally advisable to be cautious in houses built before the late 1980s. When dealing with attic insulation, it is crucial to exercise caution and use proper safety equipment due to the potential release of harmful asbestos fibers when it is disturbed. If you suspect the presence of asbestos, it is recommended to consult with a professional for safe removal or handling.

Now, before we finish discussing attic insulation, it’s important to consider proper airflow and ventilation. Although insulation is essential, overfilling the attic without allowing for adequate ventilation can result in side effects such as moisture buildup, condensation, and potential mold or ventilation issues. It’s crucial to balance insulation with the need for proper airflow to maintain a healthy and well-ventilated space

Walls:

So we’ve looked at our homes “Toque” in terms of an attic, but no responsible parent ever sent their kid out to go toboggining without a jacket. Our walls and the insulation in them would be how we would best translate to when our home is wearing a parka or a knitted sweater.

Walls contribute to heat loss or gain depending on the outside temperature. In terms of R-value, exterior walls typically require higher insulation values than interior walls. The recommended minimum R-value for exterior walls in Canadian building codes is R-22, while R-20 is suggested for basement walls. Interior walls, which separate conditioned spaces, typically have lower R-values as they are not exposed to temperature extremes.

However, it is important to note that the recommended minimum R-value for exterior walls mentioned in the paragraph (R-22) is in line with current Canadian building codes, which are regularly revised to improve energy efficiency and reflect advancements in construction practices. The insulation value of an older home would vary greatly.

Thermal transfer within a home can occur through areas that lack adequate insulation, such as the 2×4 studs in walls. These studs, although necessary for structural support, can act as thermal bridges, allowing heat to flow more easily between the interior and exterior of a home. This can result in energy loss and reduced overall insulation effectiveness. To address thermal bridging, additional insulation measures such as rigid foam insulation or advanced framing techniques are often employed.

If we were to continue on with our coat analogy, Thermal bridging would come into play at say our zipper. It’s a crucial structural element of our coat, but it doesn’t allow for the fluffy padding over or under it. That’s why we see a lot of flaps on our own jackets that cover the zipper and affixed to the other side with buttons. In highly efficient homes we see the same principles in place where rigid foam insulation is placed between the studs of our home and the siding. This limits that thermal bridging.

Windows and Doors

Unlike the materials used in walls and attics, windows and doors have relatively low R-values due to their transparency and susceptibility to heat transfer. The R-value of a standard single-pane window may range from R-1 to R-2, while a double-pane window can reach R-2 to R-4. Energy-efficient windows with low-emissivity coatings and insulated frames can achieve higher R-values, up to R-6 or more.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the R-value of a window is not the only factor to consider when evaluating its energy efficiency. Other factors, such as the window frame material, glazing options (such as low-emissivity coatings and gas fills), and the overall window design, can also impact the insulation performance.

If we were to continue to imagine our home as a little Timbit Tot going to play outside in the winter, we might attribute windows and doors to our mittens. Of course these is a big difference between those thin cheap gloves, vs. a pair of Hudson bay Canada mittens vs skidoo mittens. Upgrading your windows isn’t always an option, but many of us are familiar with layering our mittens here in the The Great White North. So things like thermal curtains, and temporary window film can improve your insulating value in a pinch.