Thursday, 28 July 2016

Insulation, Thermal Imaging, Fireproofing and More!

Our company has been in business since 1991 providing services to the residential, construction and agricultural markets for over 20 years.Georgian Insulation is a certified, professional Insulation service, family owned and providing quality insulation services in Barrie, Midland, Orillia, Collingwood and across Simcoe and Muskoka.

We are known best for our insulation services including: Spray Foam, Cellulose Insulation, BIBS, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, Slab lifting and Thermal Scans.

We have decades of experience and are pleased to help you find the right insulation product for your home or commercial building.

Insulation
Georgian Insulation has several insulation options to choose from. We have expert knowledge of different products and would be happy to go over the advantages of different materials. We offer spray foam insulation, blown cellulose, BIBS (blown-in insulation), and we also remove damaged insulation or vermiculite from your building. A popular insulation choice is Walltite Eco Spray Foam. Walltite Eco Spray Foam is made from renewable vegetable oils and recycled plastics mixed to make a polyurethane foam for high quality and performance insulation.

Thermal Imaging
Georgian Insulation utilizes a thermal imaging camera to discover insulation and building envelope concerns. Thermal Imaging is used to find and locate missing insulation, detect air leaks, moisture intrusion, wildlife, and even some structural problems in your home. On the scanner, there are different colors of your house. If you see yellow that means that part of the house has very good insulation. Purple or black on the screen means there is little or no insulation in that part of the house and the heat is escaping from that spot. Finding the locations quickly and accurately means you can fix the insulation problem and make your home for efficient and comfortable.

Fireproofing
Georgian Insulation installs Grace Monokote Cementitious coatings to protect steel structural surfaces and spray foam. Monokote products can be found in all types of buildings and the product is recognized worldwide for their in-place performance and superior durability.

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fiberglass, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling. Contact Us for a Free Quote - Or Call 1-866-576-9338.

Wednesday, 29 June 2016

Benefits Of Good Quality Insulation



Georgian Insulation Systems has a team of professional technicians who are some of the best in the industry. We’ll work with you to provide the best in energy efficient insulation for your home, commercial or agricultural building. With the proper insulation system it's possible to reduce your energy costs up to 50%, create a healthier environment, and improve the comfort of your home. 

The benefits of good quality insulation are:

Preserving Heat and Comfort
With proper insulation, in the winter months you conserve heat within your house and have uniform temperature, without cold spots and drafts. In the summer, your home is able to maintain cool temperature settings at a lower energy cost. The result is increased comfort throughout the year.

Keeping the racket down
With good insulation it will help keep the noises down. For example: if you live on a very busy street and cars pass every minute of the day, with a good insulation system you can reduce ambient street noise.  

Saving Energy
A good insulation system will reduce your energy costs up to 50%. Insulation makes your home heating more energy efficient so your heat system doesn't have to work as hard. With escalating energy prices, many homeowners are looking at ways to save on home energy costs. Premium insulation like spray foam insulation, has very high return on investment.

Environmentally friendly
The less energy you use the more it helps the environment. Conserve heat by making sure your home is well insulated. We have many High R-Value options to choose from including Walltite Eco. 

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fiberglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.
Contact Us for a Free Quote - Or Call 1-866-576-9338
.

Monday, 16 May 2016

5 Reasons You Should Insulate Your Home This Summer

5 Reasons You Should Insulate Your Home This Summer


Many people know that insulation helps keep your home cozy and warm during the colder winter months. But did you know that proper insulation also keeps your home cool during the summer? Spring and summer are popular renovation seasons, and many people opt to improve their home’s insulation for many reasons. New insulation can increase your home’s resale value, and certain types of insulation can reduce your home’s eco-footprint. Proper insulation can also greatly reduce your heating and cooling bills, and make your home a more comfortable environment.


Here are 5 reasons why you should insulate your home this summer:

1. Insulation in the walls and attic prevent outdoor heat from entering your home. This helps you more easily maintain your indoor temperature making your home more comfortable and controlled.

2. Attic insulation creates a barrier between the sun and roof and your home. Without adequate insulation, the sun heats your attic and will allow sweltering temperatures to seep into your home, increasing the demands on your AC, thus increasing your bills.

3. Insulation reduces trapped heat in your attic, allowing you to decrease your air conditioning system usage & save money.

4. Lack of proper insulation can lead to high levels of moisture in the air, which can eventually lead mould growth. Mould is a major allergen and can cause respiratory illness and damage to your home.

5. Decreased use of your air conditioning system not only saves you money, but also contributes to a quieter environment. Insulation can also act as a sound barrier between you and the outdoors, making your indoor environment more peaceful.

If you were thinking of doing some home renovation this year, it is worth considering updating your insulation. Increasing your home’s resale value, reducing your eco-footprint, and saving money are all great reasons to insulate your home. If you have any questions about which insulation is best for you or would like a quote, please contact us today!

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.Contact Us for a Free Quote - Or Call 1-866-576-9338.

Thursday, 28 April 2016

Increase The Value of Your Home By Going Green

Green Insulation Increases Your Home's Value


Are you thinking of renovating your home this spring? If you are, you might be considering specifically green updates and upgrades that not only can save you money and protect the environment, but also can increase the resale value of your home. Green home features and building designs are becoming increasingly popular. New homeowners or those in the market to buy a new house are looking for features that are eco-friendly and wallet-friendly.


The first step in ensuring your home is eco-friendly and efficient, is making sure that it’s well sealed and properly insulated. A poorly insulated home will drive heating and cooling bills through the roof. A well-insulated home will allow you maintain your home’s temperature easier. Your energy bill will decrease since your furnace and air conditioner won’t have to work as hard – proper insulation prevents hot air from entering your home in the summer months, and also prevents the comfortable, cooled air in your home from escaping.


While any new insulation properly installed can increase the value of your home, there are insulation products that are a notch above the rest when it comes to being green and eco-friendly.


Blown Cellulose


Cellulose has the largest amount of post-consumer recycled content in the industry - up to 85% recycled newspaper. Paper is the largest component of landfills and producing Cellulose insulation diverts waste from the landfills thus saving valuable space.
Cellulose takes less energy to make than any other insulation material. In green circles this is known as “embodied energy” which is the energy required to transport raw materials and the energy used to make the final product. Fiberglass, the most widely used insulation, has 10 times more embodied energy than cellulose.
Making cellulose insulation from newsprint prevents the release of greenhouse gases such as methane, which is released as newspaper decomposes in landfills.


Walltite Eco Spray Foam


Walltite Eco is made from renewable vegetable oils and recycled plastics, and blended into a high performance spray polyurethane foam.
Monthly energy and utility savings of 40% or more can be achieved when compared to the traditional fibreglass products. The cost of insulating with spray foam insulation can often be recovered in less than 5 years, simply through energy savings alone.
As a lower density, closed-cell foam, it takes less material to produce the performance you need. It burns less fuel during transportation because it’s transported as a liquid, then expands over 30 times its volume during application.
Walltite Eco contains significant rates of recycled content. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is among the most common plastics used for packaging, bottles and containers. Post-consumer and post-industrial recycled material is processed to make raw material for new applications.


Choosing one of the two types of insulation above is a huge step towards making your home the most efficient and green that it can be. It might not make as big of a visual impact as a new kitchen or deck- but buying trends in the house market show buyers leaning towards greener features that will save them money in the longrun.

Georgian Insulation Systems, the area’s leading insulation contractor will work with you to achieve the highest level of efficiency in your home. Call us for a free estimate on your project.
1-866-576-9338

Monday, 21 March 2016

5 Steps to Inspect & Spring Clean Your Roof

Spring Roof Inspection Spring Cleaning insulation


Spring is officially here. Flowers will soon start poking up from the ground and trees will start to bud. Hopefully we don’t get much more snow! With the weather starting to warm up, you might be getting the urge to give your house a good spring clean. While you’re working through the inside of your home with tasks such as dusting and organizing closets and cupboards, it’s easy to forget about the outside of your home.

Your roof is an important structure that needs just as much attention as the inside of your home. Inspecting and cleaning it should be a priority on your spring cleaning list.

Spring roof inspections & clean ups are important because your roof will have taken a beating during the winter months. Built up snow and ice can prevent pools of water from properly draining off your roof, not to mention expanding ice can damage tiles. You can inspect your roof for signs of damage that go deeper than just roof tiles.

Here are 5 steps you can take to make sure your roof can make it another year, or find out if it’s time to replace it.

1. Take a Walk
Before you actually take out your ladder and climb up, it’s a good idea to just do a visual inspection from the ground. In fact, if you are nervous on a ladder, you can do the entire inspection from the ground with a pair of binoculars. Look for obvious signs of damage, blockages, and debris.

2. Inspection
If you have a sturdy ladder handy, and another person to help spot you, you can climb up for a closer look. Keeping ladder safety in mind, take a close look at your roof for any cracked caulking or rust, curling, buckling, or missing shingles, or any bubbling or blistering.

3. Remove Debris
Remove any debris that may have collected on the roof during the winter months. This includes leaves, branches, pine needles, pine cones, and anything else you find that doesn't belong! Now is also a good time to inspect your gutters and clear out debris that may prevent water from properly draining.

4. Trim Branches
Look for any trees that have branches touching or coming within a couple feet of your roof or home. It’s a good idea to carefully trim these areas back as loose branches can cause damage to the shingles. The close shade of a tree can also promote the growth of mildew on the roof.

5. Look For Signs of Mould
Mould, mildew, lichen, and algae can cause some serious damage to your roof. They can be signs of rotting and water damage that can go deeper into your home and cause not only structural issues but also health issues.

It’s always a good idea to have a professional inspect your roof if you suspect it might need to be replaced or repaired. You should also consult a professional if you think there might be issues that go deeper into your home, such as in the insulation or structure.

A part of inspecting your roof should also be inspecting your attic for signs of mould, mildew, and even animals that may have made your attic into their winter home. All of these things can compromise your insulation, costing you money on power bills and possibly affecting your family’s health and safety.

If you suspect an issue with your insulation, feel free to contact us at Georgian Insulation. We can inspect your insulation and help you come up with a solution to ensure your home is properly insulated for the warmer months.

Georgian Insulation Systems, the area’s leading insulation contractor will work with you to achieve the highest level of efficiency in your home.  Call us for a free estimate on your project.
1-866-576-9338


Tuesday, 23 February 2016

What Are the Signs of Insulation Problems in the Winter?

Signs of Insulation Problems in the Winter


This winter's temperatures were all over the place. One day it would be in the minus 30’s and the very next week it would rise back up to the pluses. Maybe these temperature extremes made you realize that your insulation isn’t up to par. In order to provide a comfortable environment throughout the varying temperatures, your home needs to be well sealed, well insulated, and properly ventilated.

More extreme temperatures often see higher energy bills. The bigger the difference between your indoor and outdoor temperatures, the more energy is needed to regulate the indoor temperature. This is only exacerbated by poor insulation and poor ventilation.

So what are some signs of inefficient insulation during the different seasons?

Signs of Insulation Problems in the Winter:
  1. walls cold to touch
  2. cold floors
  3. high heating costs
  4. uneven heating levels within building
  5. mould growing on walls
Signs of Insulation Problems in the Summer:
  1. uncomfortably hot inside air
  2. high cooling cost
  3. ineffectiveness of air conditioning system
  4. mould growing in the basement

If you have any of these problems, you should look into inspecting the insulation system in your home.

CIMAC lists these points as being part of an effective insulation system.

Effective Insulation Systems:

  • have an air barrier which prevents the movement of interior or exterior air through the system
  • have carefully filled cavities which leave no gaps in or around the insulation and do not compress the insulation
  • have a minimum of thermal bridges. These are parts of the wall that, with a lower R value extend from the warm side to the cold side of the insulation (giving heat an easy escape). Structural members in the wall will often act as thermal bridges.
  • have a vapour retarder such as polyethylene sheeting, which prevents moisture from moving from warm interior spaces into a colder building envelope where it could condense
  • have drying potential - which is the ability of the insulated assembly to release any moisture that gets into the system

The right insulation system can not only reduce the amount of energy you use and save you money, but make your home more liveable and enjoyable. It's an important upgrade or reno project and you want to be absolutely sure you have professional advice and excellent options. We have decades of experience evaluating homes in central Ontario and would be pleased to come out and take a look.

Georgian Insulation Systems, the area’s leading insulation contractor will work with you to achieve the highest level of efficiency in your home.  Call us for a free estimate on your project.
1-866-576-9338


Wednesday, 20 January 2016

How to Find & Fix Air Leaks In Your Home



How to find air leaks in your home


You're at home, getting warm and cozy, and all of a sudden you feel it; a cold breeze against your skin. But where is it coming from? Air leaks and drafts can be a mild annoyance to a major problem- especially if you’re also feeling the draft in your wallet when it comes time to pay bills.


The first step in fixing a draft or air leak is locating them. There are some common areas to check in your house for air leaks.


Doors & Windows
These are your most obvious places to check first. Windows are going to be the most common area where you’d feel a cold draft. You can run your palm along the seals to feel for any breezes coming in, or you can use a candle or burning incense and watch for the flame/smoke to flicker. Mark the leaks with a sticky note or piece of masking tape.


Sealing these leaks can be as easy as purchasing some heavy curtains, weather sealant, or caulking for a DIY job. An under door “sweep” can also be installed to stop drafts. A more severe leak might require the purchase of a new window or door- but this can get pricey and is often unnecessary. While doors and windows might seem the most obvious- sealing them won’t save you the most on your energy bills.


Chimneys
Chimneys are another obvious one. technically they are drafty by nature! Examine the area for any abnormal draft activity, and usually covering the fireplace up when not in use will prevent any major drafts.


Outlets & Fixtures
Electrical outlets and lighting fixtures are common areas for air leaks- especially in older homes. Examine these areas carefully and if needed you can purchase draft-proof gaskets.


Attics & Basements
This is where we save you some money on your energy bill. Attics, Basements, and crawlspaces can be the worst spots for uncomfortable ( and expensive) air leaks and drafts in your home. It is important to inspect these areas carefully as insulation might be damaged or improperly installed. In these cases, replacing the insulation with better, more energy efficient insulation can make the biggest difference in prevent drafts and keeping heating costs down.


Thermal imaging is one of the most efficient ways to find areas of heat loss and air leaks in your home. Georgian Insulation Systems utilizes a Flir Thermal imaging camera to discover insulation and building envelope concerns.


The right insulation system can not only reduce the amount of energy you use and save you money, but make your home safer and more enjoyable. It's an important upgrade or reno project and you want to be absolutely sure you have professional advice and excellent options. Georgian Insulation Systems, the area’s leading insulation contractor will work with you to achieve the highest level of efficiency in your home. Call us for a free estimate on your project. 1-866-576-9338



Monday, 14 December 2015

4 Steps to Safely Hanging ( and Removing ) Your Holiday Lights


This holiday season you may want to hang some festive holiday lights on your home You may already have! . Lights really take your holiday decorating to the next level! However, they can also be a safety hazard for a few reasons. Follow our simple step-by-step guide to ensure you are protecting yourself, your family, and your home.


1. Plan your design. There are so many options when it comes to hanging your lights. By planning ahead you can minimize the time spent on the ladder and your roof. Here are some ideas for where to hang your lights:


  • Along your roof/ eavestroughs
  • Wrap around posts and pillars
  • Along your planters and window boxes
  • In trees and bushes
  • Other architectural features


It is also a good idea to measure the length of the strands you will need, don’t forget to measure to the outlet. No point in hanging nice lights if you can’t turn them on!


2. Choose your lights. there are so many types of lights to choose from! They vary in size, color, shape, lighting pattern, and light type. Most people who want to save energy and electricity bills will opt for LED’s as they use less power. They also run a bit cooler and therefore might be considered a bit safer. Do your research on which kind of lights you want to have in your design. It is really important to make sure that whichever lights you do choose are rated for outdoor use.


Safety holiday lights xmas christmas fire prevention Ontario
3. Test your lights. Before you hang your lights, make sure to test each strand. CHeck over the wiring for any frayed or exposed wire. This can be a huge safety hazard so make sure to discard of any damaged strands properly. It is also a good idea to check your extension cable (should be rated for outdoor use)  and the outlet you plan to use. Make sure it is a GFCI outlet so that instead of overloading and catching fire, it will shut off. Be careful not to overload the outlets. It is a good idea to not have more than 300 lights on a single outlet.


4. Hanging Safely. Once you have planned your design and tested your lights you are ready to hang. It is a good idea to avoid hanging lights by yourself. Have someone there to spot you, hold the ladder, or assist you if needed. Make sure to use a sturdy ladder planted firmly in the ground. Never step on the top of the ladder, and always hold on with at least one hand if you can. Before standing on your roof, make sure there are no rotten spots or loose shingles. There are universal light clips you can use to attach the strands to either your gutter or shingles.


It might also help to have an outdoor timer attached to your lights so that you can time them for dusk, and not have them running all night. This will also save you time and money on your electricity bill!


Last but not least, it should go without saying that you should take all necessary steps to fireproof your home in the event that something does go awry. Georgian Insulation offers a fireproofing service. Having your home properly insulated will also help to reduce energy costs so you can feel free to run those lights a bit longer each night!

Happy Holidays!!


Georgian Insulation is based in Oro Medonte. We cover all regions around Barrie, Orillia, Collingwood, Bradford, Alliston, Midland, Gravenhust, Simcoe County, Muskoka, Haliburton, Dufferin, North York, Grey and Bruce. Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.


Contact Us for a Free Quote - Call 1-866-576-9338

Wednesday, 11 November 2015

4 Tips to Preparing Your Roof and Home for Winter

It’s November, which means it's time to get your house ready for the winter conditions ahead; snow, freezing rain, sleet, cold wind, and winter storms. Your roof protects your home against harsh weather conditions and it is essential that it's in good condition to keep your family comfortable and your energy costs low.


Roof winterization means not only a visual inspection of your roof surface, but also preparation of the areas around your house that might impact your roof in a winter storm. Here are some things you can do to prepare your roof and home for winter:


  • Remove any dead trees or tree branches that could fall on your home now before the weather makes this task more difficult. Ice build up on these weakened branches can cause severe damage, especially in high winds.
  • Inspect your roof thoroughly, look for missing or damaged tiles/shingles, warped or missing flashing.
  • Clean off any built up debris and clean out the gutters to keep melted water flowing. Check that your gutters are clear by running water through from the roof surface.
  • If you had an area of icicles hanging down from roof eaves last winter, then you should address the problem before you end up with water damage in your home and damage to your roof. Roof dams are often caused by inadequate ceiling insulation, or poor soffit and ridge ventilation.


Roof Winter Preparation Ice Dams Insulation


We can help you evaluate the condition that caused the ice dam. Thermal imaging can pin-point areas of heat loss. Insulation can be added to stop the flow of heat out of the weak area. It's not always the case that you need to add more insulation - you might need a different type of insulation, so it's important to have professional advice.


If you need roof repairs, contact a licensed roofing contractor right away, and if your roof looks fine, remember it is a good idea to have a roof expert take a look at it every 2 or 3 years to confirm its condition.


As a homeowner getting ready for winter means more than turning off the exterior water, putting away the patio furniture, and firing up the snow-blower. Inspecting the overall condition of your roof and addressing any issues with your home insulation will help you fix problems causing snow and ice builds up. Don't wait until the damage is done. Ice dams not only cause roof damage but interior water damage resulting in the expense of replaced drywall.


Georgian Insulation is based in Oro Medonte. We cover all regions around Barrie, Orillia, Collingwood, Bradford, Alliston, Midland, Gravenhust, Simcoe County, Muskoka, Haliburton, Dufferin, North York, Grey and Bruce.

Contact Us for a Free Quote - Call 1-866-576-9338 or go to our websitewww.georgianinsulation.com and fill out our form.

Friday, 23 October 2015

How Proper Insulation Protects Your Home in the Winter

As winter approaches you want to make sure your home ( and the people inside!) are protected against the winter elements.

Winter Insulation Barrie Georgian

 The Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corp. describes a well insulated house like dressing for winter.
             
"A wool sweater will keep you warm if the wind is not blowing and it is not raining. On a windy, rainy day, wearing a nylon shell over your wool sweater helps keep you reasonably dry and         warm. A house is similar. On the outside underneath the brick or siding, there is an air barrier that does the same thing as the nylon - it keeps the wind from blowing through. Then there is the insulation (like your sweater) and a vapour barrier, which helps keep moisture away from the house structure." 

 Some of the winter threats to your home include ice dams and heat loss. Ice dams may lead to costly damage on your roof and eavestroughs as well as interior water damage. Heat loss reduces your home's efficiency and leads to higher heating costs.

What are Ice Dams? 

Ice dams are formed when heat escapes from the home and causes snow to melt. The water formed from heat loss then freezes as it flows down the roof, closer to cold edges, causing ice dams and icicles. This ice build-up can create a dangerous situation for homeowners and their visitors. Attics require proper insulation and ventilation to function correctly.

Roof Ice Dams Insulation Winter Barrie


 Your attic should have approximately 15-20 inches of insulation, in addition to adequate ventilation through soffits and at the top of the attic. Some recommendations for ice dam prevention may include:

  • Adding insulation or ventilation 
  • Air sealing the attic floor 
  • Locating problem heat loss areas

 With the extremely cold weather trend in previous winters, many older homes that are lightly insulated are having a big problem with energy consumption and cold drafty areas. Homes built prior to 2010 might use upwards of 25% more space heating energy than newer homes. This is because of recent improvements in the building codes for insulation and airtightness levels.

 Signs of Insulation Problems in the Winter:

  • walls cold to touch 
  • cold floors 
  • high heating costs 
  • uneven heating levels within building 
  • mould growing on walls


 In Canada over 60% of residential energy use goes to space heating, so a good portion of your energy bill is impacted by insulation problems or poor quality materials that aren't doing the job.

 To reduce energy costs you can look at adding insulation and reducing air leaks. A well insulated home will reduce your energy heating costs in the winter and your cooling costs in the summer. You can see how making sure your home has proper insulation is very important to protecting your home and loved ones, and keeping costs down.

 The right insulation system can not only reduce the amount of energy you use and save you money, but make your home safer and more enjoyable. It's an important upgrade or reno project and you want to be absolutely sure you have professional advice and excellent options. Georgian Insulation Systems, the areas leading insulation contractor will work with you to achieve the highest level of efficiency in your home. Call us for a free estimate on your project. 1-866-576-9338

Monday, 14 September 2015

8 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Insulation

Adequate insulation is your best defence against the cold weather. It keeps your warm air from escaping and prevents cold air from seeping into your home. But how do you know if you should add or replace your insulation?

If you’ve ever wondering why it’s so cold in your house, you may already be suspecting that it’s time to add or replace your insulation. But there are some additional signs you can look for that would indicate it’s time for change:

Insulation Winter Draft Barrie
  • High energy bill. There is absolutely no reason why you should accept a high home heating bill! If you’re not sure if your energy bill is high, consult with your neighbours and see what they’re paying per month. Most likely, the cause of a high energy bill is poor or damaged insulation. The good news is … updated insulation can reduce your energy cost up to 50%.
  • Roof ice dams. Ice dams are formed when heat escapes from the home and causes snow to melt. The water formed from this heat loss will then freeze as it flows from the roof, causing ice dams and icicles. This is a dangerous situation that can be costly – and it’s also one of the most visible signs of poor insulation and ventilation.
  • Changing temperatures within your home. Does your home feel hot at one minute, and then cold shortly after? This can be a sign that your home is allowing cold or warm air to enter or escape, often through the attic or basement, and sometimes even through the walls.
  • Inconsistent temperatures in different rooms. What if you’re living room is warm and cozy, but your bathroom or bedroom are freezing cold? This is a sure sign of an insulation concern.
  • Wet insulation. If you’ve recently had a flood or leak, it’s imperative that you allow your insulation to dry out completely. If your insulation does not dry properly, it can lead to mould.
  • Damaged or aging insulation. Insulation used in older homes may not be as effective as the insulation available today. Not to mention that many types of older insulation, such as vermiculite, is considered unsafe to use today. If your experiencing the signs of poor insulation and/or have notice damage to your current insulation, it’s time to move forward with a retrofit.
  • Cold drafts, cold floors or cold walls. If your floors or walls are cold to the touch, or you notice a cold draft when all windows are doors are closed, your insulation is not preventing cold temperatures to entering your home.
  • No “air barrier”. The purpose of an air barrier is to prevent the movement of interior or exterior air through the insulation system. Homes lacking an air barrier (most older homes were not designed with air barriers), or homes that have a improperly installed barrier, should investigate insulation options to prevent air leaking to and from the home.

If you experience any of the signs of poor insulation listed above, it’s time to insulate your home before the cold weather hits again.

Ready to get started? Contact us today for a free quote!

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.


Saturday, 22 August 2015

Protect Your Home or Commercial Building with Grace Monokote Fireproofing

A fire is one of the most devastating and destructive disasters that can happen in your home or business. That’s why protecting a building from a fire is serious business.

fireproof insulation BarrieModern building codes require fireproofing in new buildings as a thermal barrier over spray foam. While spray foam has fire inhibitors blended into the material, it can still burn if other combustible materials are burning. So if spray foam is exposed to an occupied area of a building, it must be covered with a thermal barrier. This thermal barrier adds an extra line of defence to protect the building and its occupants.

Fireproofing products are used to prevent or delay the failure of steel and concrete structures exposed to fire. They insulate the structure during the event of a fire, delaying loss of the integrity of the structural membranes.

We offer Fireproofing Service using Grace Monokote® Fireproofing.

Grace Monokote® spray applied cementitious fireproofing is specified by architects and favoured by applicators to protect a building's structural steel from failure in the event of fire. Recognized worldwide for their in-place performance and superior durability, Monokote products can be found in all types of buildings including high-rise construction, manufacturing facilities, schools, hospitals, airports and sports facilities.

We will assist you in choosing the correct Fireproofing product to protect you home or commercial building. We consider the size of the building, exterior exposure, building materials and type of room.

Click here to learn more about Grace Monokote® Fireproofing or contact us today for more information.


Georgian Insulation Systems, is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling. Contact Us for a Free Quote - Or Call 1-866-576-9338.

Friday, 24 July 2015

What Should You Do If You Find Vermiculite Insulation?

Insulation Removal Reno Residential Barrie
Summer is a peak season for renovations. Many people choose to include new insulation in their renovation plans since it goes a long way in reducing your energy consumption and can increase your home’s resale value.

But what should you do if you discover vermiculite in your attic or inside your walls?

Vermiculite insulation was used for many years as home insulation. It was installed in thousands of homes in attics and walls. For years it was believed to be a safe and harmless product. Several years ago researches discovered that some of the vermiculite contained low levels of asbestos.

What is Vermiculite Insulation?


Vermiculite was mined from the Libby Mine in Montana and from several mines in South Africa. It is the vermiculite that came from the Libby Mine that contains harmful asbestos fibers.

There are two distinct types of Vermiculite insulation. It may resemble expanded multi coloured “popcorn” or “chopped brown rice”. The smaller chopped brown rice style is typically from the Libby mine and may be contaminated with asbestos. However, the only way to be sure is to have a sample analyzed at an approved laboratory.

What Should You Do If You Discover Vermiculite?


Asbestos fibers may be disturbed during renovations, electrical projects, or entry into the attic. Air leakage from the attic into the occupied areas of the home may also allow asbestos fibers into the home. It is very difficult to completely seal all attic penetrations. Air leakage around the attic trap-door, wiring, chimneys, exhaust pipes, vent pipes and penetrations through the top plate of the wall can all allow asbestos fibers to enter the occupied area of the home.

If you find vermiculite, you should contact a professional vermiculite removal company.

How Will You Remove the Vermiculite?


We have developed a safe and efficient way to mechanically remove the vermiculite insulation.

Utilizing a truck mounted, HEPA filtered vacuum system and ministry approved abatement procedures, the vermiculite insulation is quickly and safely removed from your home. The power of the 85 hp diesel vacuum system ensures that all vermiculite material is extracted from your attic through a vacuum hose. 

Other companies manually shovel the vermiculite into garbage bags for disposal.  This can release large amounts of asbestos fibers into your home. The garbage bags are then carried through the house for placement in a dumpster, these bags may tear releasing asbestos into the occupied area of your home.

Our vacuum truck system protects you and your home.

Contact us today for a free quote or for more information on vermiculite removal.

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.

Tuesday, 30 June 2015

What Types Of Insulation Are There?



WALLTITE Insulation being sprayed - spray foam insulation
There are many types of insulation products and options available, all with competing claims, making it a challenge to sort the facts from the advertising. There’s also no shortage of self-proclaimed experts ready to weigh in on what they believe is the best insulation system.

While there are a large number of materials that could be used to insulate a home, the most used forms of insulation on the market today are:

Cellulose
Fiberglass
Spray Foam
Cotton / Denim


Cellulose

Cellulose insulation has been a tried and true method of insulating homes for decades. It is made from recycled newsprint and other recycled paper with one of the highest percentages of post-consumer waste content of any insulation. It is treated with recognized safe fire retardants. Numerous tests have shown that cellulose insulation is better at preventing the spread of fire in a building than other insulation products.

Its excellent sound insulating properties, its ability to provide an effective 1-hour fire rating, high R-value per inch, and industry leading environmental properties, makes cellulose insulation a perfect choice for insulating attics and sidewalls.

Cellulose insulation is blown onto attic floors or into wall and ceiling cavities, or is sprayed into open wall cavities. It is an excellent choice for adding insulation in walls of older existing homes due to the ease of installation.


Fiberglass

Fiberglass insulation is made from molten glass that is spun or blown into fibers. The recycled content of fiberglass insulation ranges from 0-40%, but that includes waste generated during manufacturing. Its most common forms are rolls and batts, which are used in wall cavities and attics and also in a loose-fill form that is blown-in.

Fiberglass is non-combustible, but it will melt in a fire, potentially allowing that fire to spread. Care should be taken when installing fiberglass to wear protective clothing and a respirator, per the manufacturer’s guidelines, to avoid direct contact with, or inhaling of, the glass fibers.


Spray Foam

Spray foam insulations are petroleum-based products and typically have little or no recycled content. They require professional installation, using special equipment to measure, mix, and spray the foam. Due to their ability to help reduce air leaks, they are often used in selected areas where the reduction of air leaks is critical, although it can be used throughout a structure. The cost to insulate using spray foam is typically significantly higher than other materials. Excess sprayed foam insulation from the job site can’t be reused, nor can it be recycled.


Bio-Based Foams

Ingredients derived from soy or castor beans are being added to some foam products in an attempt to produce a less environmentally harmful product. They also require professional installation and provide similar air leak reduction as standard spray foam insulations. According to Environmental Building News, these products contain approximately 40% bio-based ingredients and 60% petroleum derived products. It should also be noted that petroleum is used to drive the farm equipment and to produce the agri-chemicals used to grow beans.


Cotton / Denim

Another high recycled and more unusual product is recycled denim insulation. The insulation is primarily made with pre-consumer recycled cotton or denim waste collected from factories manufacturing jeans and other denim products. There are now some with programs targeting post consumer recycling of jeans and other denim products from consumers.

This product is environmentally friendly as it is made from a rapidly renewable resource. Performance is similar to other insulation batt products. It is easier to install than fiberglass since it does not contain the glass fibers. The cost to insulate cotton/denim is typically significantly higher than other materials and the product is not as readily available to consumers in many areas.

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling. 

Friday, 15 May 2015

Increase Your Home’s Value with Green Insulation

Spring is a popular time for home renovations, and one of the best investments you can make in your home is new insulation. While this type of “behind the scenes” renovation may not produce the same interest as a brand new kitchen or bathroom, it can have a huge impact on your family’s comfort and dramatically reduce your home’s heating AND cooling bill.

insulation barrie green energy efficient A well-insulated home will allow you maintain your home’s temperature easier. Your energy bill will decrease since your furnace and air conditioner won’t have to work as hard – proper insulation prevents hot air from entering your home in the summer months, and also prevents the comfortable, cooled air in your home from escaping.

Replacing your insulation can also increase you home’s resale value. And if you choose “green” insulation, your home’s resale value will increase even more! Homebuyers are becoming increasingly interested in green features that have proven value. 

New insulation is already a value-added feature, but choosing an eco-friendly insulation option will increase the value of your renovation even more.

There are many environmentally friendly insulation options on the market. Our top two choices are:

Blown Cellulose

  • Cellulose has the largest amount of post-consumer recycled content in the industry - up to 85% recycled newspaper. Paper is the largest component of landfills and producing Cellulose insulation diverts waste from the landfills thus saving valuable space.
  • Cellulose takes less energy to make than any other insulation material. In green circles this is known as “embodied energy” which is the energy required to transport raw materials and the energy used to make the final product. Fiberglass, the most widely used insulation, has 10 times more embodied energy than cellulose.
  • Making cellulose insulation from newsprint prevents the release of greenhouse gases such as methane, which is released as newspaper decomposes in landfills.

Walltite Eco Spray Foam

  • Walltite Eco is made from renewable vegetable oils and recycled plastics, and blended into a high performance spray polyurethane foam.
  • Monthly energy and utility savings of 40% or more can be achieved when compared to the traditional fiberglass products. The cost of insulating with spray foam insulation can often be recovered in less than 5 years, simply through energy savings alone.
  • As a lower density, closed-cell foam, it takes less material to produce the performance you need. It burns less fuel during transportation because it’s transported as a liquid, then expands over 30 times its volume during application.
  • Walltite Eco contains significant rates of recycled content. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is among the most common plastics used for packaging, bottles and containers. Post-consumer and post-industrial recycled material is processed to make raw material for new applications.

Both Walltite Eco and Blown Cellulose can be used in a variety of applications. Contact us today for more information or a free quote!

Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling.

Saturday, 18 April 2015

Save Energy in the Summer with Insulation

heat summer residential insulation barrieEveryone knows that insulation is key to helping keep you and your family warm and cozy throughout the cold winter months, but not everyone knows it’s an important tool that can help keep you cool in the summer months. Spring is a great time of year to get your home ready for energy savings throughout the summer.

Improving your home’s insulation is one of the most effective ways to save energy. Focusing your attention on insulating your attic, improving ventilation in your attic, and improving insulation in your home’s walls will not only improve the temperature in your home during the hot summer months, but will also dramatically reduce your energy bill.


Here are 5 reasons why you should insulate your home this summer:

  • Insulation in the walls and attic prevent outdoor heat from entering your home.
  • Attic insulation creates a barrier between the sun and roof and your home. Without adequate insulation, the sun heats your attic and will allow sweltering temperatures to seep into your home.
  • Insulation reduces trapped heat in your attic, allowing you to decrease your air conditioning system usage. 
  • Lack of proper insulation can lead to high levels of moisture in the air, which can eventually lead mould growth.
  • Decreased use of your air conditioning system not only saves you money, but also contributes to a quieter environment. Insulation can also act as a sound barrier between you and the outdoors.

Since heat naturally moves from warm to cold, the outside temperatures are drawn into the interior of your home. Without an insulated barrier between your home and the outdoors, your air conditioner will have to work harder to keep your home cool. This has a direct impact on your energy bills.

“Heating and cooling your home uses more energy and costs more money than any other system in your home -- typically making up about 48% of your utility bill.”- U.S Department of Energy

There are many insulation types that can be used to make improvements in your home’s attic and walls. Georgian Insulation has several insulation options to choose from. We have expert knowledge of different products and would be happy to go over the advantages of different materials. Contact us today for a free quote!


Georgian Insulation Systems is Central Ontario's premium spray foam insulation contractor. We're recommended by leading custom home builders, commercial design/builders, architects, home inspectors and our many customers. We provide Polyurethane Spray foam, Cellulose, Fibreglas, Roxull, Fireproofing, Insulation Removal, concrete slab lifting with injected polyurethane and epoxy crack filling. Contact Us for a Free Quote - Or Call 1-866-576-9338.