Learn about changes to the Ontario Building Code for 2017

You may or may not be aware that insulation codes have changed for all new builds with permits issued after 2016. The two most important changes in the code for insulation have to do with continuous insulation throughout the building and increasing attic insulation from R-50 to R-60.

Continuous Insulation

This refers to a monolithic layer of insulation that eliminates thermal bridging through wood or steel studs. Typically, this will be achieved using foam board or spray foam depending on where in the home the insulation is going as well as the design you choose.

Increase from R-50 to R-60

This seems like a very simple increase, but it is not. When insulation levels increase for attics in new homes, most homeowners want to upgrade their attic to new code requirements with their existing setup. It is an easy pitch for an insulation sales person to make, but not all homes should have a simple R-50 or R-60 attic increase using fluffy blown-in fiberglass or cellulose, which are the most common insulations for attics in our area. Many older homes do not have the room for an R-50 over the outside wall plates, and therefore the delta between the middle of the house and the outside becomes too great. An R-60 attic increase will exacerbate the problem even further. This situation can lead to premature degradation of the soffit area, top plate, roof sheathing, and attic as a whole. Normal ventilation techniques as per code may not be enough to overcome the delta. Insta-Insulation has seen a significant increase in mold-related issues over the past eight years mainly due to over insulation, under ventilation, and using the wrong insulation for the application. Please take the time to speak to one of our qualified representatives to discuss your attic upgrade.