Save the Environment by Installing Green Attic Insulation

March 13, 2018

If you’re leaning towards an eco-friendly approach to home energy efficiency, then the choice to install green attic insulation falls perfectly in line with that decision. Today, attic insulation provides all of the benefits of being environmentally friendly and energy efficient – install high quality insulation; reduce energy costs; and do some good for the environment.

In simple terms, increasing home energy efficiency allows you to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions and reduce your personal carbon footprint. At the same time, not all home insulation products are as “green” as they seem. So it’s important to better understand the idea of “green”.

As a consumer, you clearly want your attic insulation to be “green” as advertised. However, “green-washing” is not uncommon these days.  “Green-washing” is the act of making false claims about the environmental benefits of an insulation product or installation.

Are you shopping around for green attic insulation?

If going "green" is important to you, be aware of any "green-washing" claims and make the most informed decision when purchasing and installing attic insulation. The extra effort will pay off. To start you off on the right “green” foot, here are some products and insulation types that are proven to be effective and efficient.

Walltite ECO™

Walltite ECO™ is spray foam insulation that exceeds the standards of the National Building Code. It’s the only spray foam with an EcoLogo™ (the most widely recognized certification mark). The Walltite ECO™ system carries the lowest environmental burden compared to other products, and the lowest measured life-cycle costs. Walltite ECO™ has been environmentally assessed over its entire manufacturing process. If you’re choosing Walltite ECO™ for green attic insulation, it’s important to choose a professional, experienced contractor to do the installation. This will ensure complete product integrity, along with superior installation, and a company guaranteed to match.

Fibreglass Insulation

Fiberglass insulation (commonly available in “batts”) is an insulation material that’s made from recycled glass. As such, it reduces the need to be manufactured from raw resources. Fiberglass batt insulation is considered “green” both as a product and for its purpose. A good installation provides improved home energy efficiency, while reducing energy consumption (heating and cooling).  As well, fiberglass insulation is manufactured using far less energy output than would be required when using raw, virgin materials. If you’ve opted for fiberglass attic insulation, it’s also available as a lightweight fibre, and can be effectively blown into the attic by an experienced professional.

Mineral Wool Insulation

If you’re committed to green attic insulation, then mineral wool insulation is certainly something to consider. In some ways, it’s similar to fibreglass batt insulation, and is quite effective at improving the overall energy performance of a home. Mineral wool insulation provides very high R-Values when compared to other products - an important feature when insulating the attic space. The product is dense and firm, fully retaining its shape when properly installed. Because there is no “sagging”, mineral wool insulation leaves few open gaps or spaces. Again, a professional installation is highly recommended in order to ensure that both draft proofing and air sealing are addressed.

Loose Fill Cellulose Insulation

Loose fill cellulose insulation is an excellent option for an attic. As a “blown insulation”, cellulose provides a better R-Value throughout a space than a similar fibreglass product (according to industry experts). Once installed, cellulose is known to settle in place, particularly over a long period of time. This will certainly have an affect on long term insulating performance. Still, having loose fill cellulose installed in the attic has a number of benefits: the material is treated to be fire resistant; it will not attract insects or rodents; and under proper conditions it will not promote mold. Loose fill insulation also requires a professional touch, along with proper attic ventilation.

Rebates available for green attic insulation through the GreenON Rebates Program

If you’re an Ontario resident, you can qualify for rebates through the GreenON Rebates Program when undertaking a variety of home energy improvements. Significant rebates are available for upgrading or retrofitting attic insulation, basement insulation and exterior wall insulation. And depending on how much work you do, as much as $7,200 is available for the purchase and installation of home insulation. The GreenON Rebates Program – offered by the Green Ontario Fund—an agency of the Government of Ontario – is designed to incentivize insulation upgrades to reduce carbon emissions caused by homes.

If you are committed to “green” insulation products

Today, it’s possible to install “green” insulation products without compromising performance and without breaking the bank. A quality product choice, along with a quality installation will provide you with benefits for years to come. You can remain committed to a “green” approach; you can benefit greatly from reduced utility costs; and you can contribute to a better environment.

In the big picture, everyone who makes improvements to home energy efficiency is also reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while reducing their carbon footprint. At the same time, it’s important to be well informed about the wide range of “green” product options. Above all, do it right the first time – with a professional contractor who knows product and installation inside and out.