Patrick Beaudette

Why Choose Urethane Insulation? Pros, Cons, & Prices

May 12, 2025 by Patrick Beaudette

Urethane insulation, spray foam in particular, is a popular choice among Canadians due to its outstanding insulation properties and longevity.

It improves indoor air quality and energy efficiency with continuous insulation without joints.

Its R-value, usually 6 per inch, serves effectively as a thermal barrier to minimize heat loss and heat gain. This leads to significant savings in energy throughout the year.

If you are looking to improve your home’s insulation, spray foam insulation is a great choice. It lasts for decades and helps you save money over time.

Compare free and no-obligation quotes for urethane insulation today from our reliable partner contractors near you.

Signs you need to upgrade to Urethane Insulation

A few factors can signal it is time for you to consider upgrading your home’s insulation to urethane or spray foam insulation.

High Energy Bills:

Are your energy bills increasing constantly? Your home insulation may not have adequate thermal resistance.

Moisture or Pest Damage

If your current insulation shows moisture or damage from pests, you may want to consider upgrading to urethane insulation.

Mould and mildew in the walls or attic are clear signs of moisture problems and poor insulation.

Constant HVAC Running

If your air conditioner or furnace is constantly running to maintain comfortable temperatures in the home, the insulation is probably not performing well.

Deterioration of Existing Insulation

Sagging or compressed insulation no longer provides good thermal resistance. If you see these signs, you should consider upgrading the insulation of the home.

Schedule an inspection

Conducting regular inspections of the condition of your home insulation will inform you when the time comes that an upgrade is necessary.

The Advantages of Choosing Urethane Insulation

Urethane insulation has one of the highest R-values per inch among the insulation materials available, making it suitable to Canada’s extreme climate conditions.

Consider the following benefits of urethane insulation for your home:

Its R-Value is usually 6 to 7 per inch for high-quality thermal resistance.
Acts as an insulator and air sealant simultaneously, thus preventing drafts and humidity problems.
Lasts for decades because it does not sag or settle even after many years.
Reduces noise in homes near busy streets.
Resists water penetration and prevents mould formation.

In Canada, where crawl spaces and basements have potential problems with moisture, urethane insulation is ideal as it acts as a vapour barrier.

Installing urethane insulation in the home is a long-term investment that pays off due to increased comfort and energy savings.

The Disadvantages of Urethane Insulation

We have just presented the numerous advantages of installing urethane insulation in the home. Does it have any disadvantages?

Its higher cost compared to other insulation materials is its primary disadvantage.
It also requires installation by professionals. It is not a DIY project because it needs specialized equipment and carries safety hazards.
If it is not properly cured, it can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to your health.
It is not environment-friendly as it contains petroleum-based chemicals
Spray foam is permanent. If you renovate the home in the future that needs walls or ceilings to be opened, it will be costly and difficult.
Some roof warranties can be voided unless spray foam is properly documented, as it can affect the heat transfer of the roof.

Considering these pros and cons, is spray foam insulation worth it? Yes, it is, specifically for its durability and energy efficiency.

The upfront cost can be higher, but the improved property value and energy savings in the long term make it a worthwhile investment.

Compare the pros and cons and weigh them based on your budget, needs, and future plans. You can receive free quotes from our partner insulation contractors by filling out our short online form!

Comparison of Urethane Insulation vs Other Insulation Materials

Compare the qualities and cost of urethane insulation versus other insulation materials so you can make the best choice.

Characteristic	Urethane	Fiberglass Batts	Cellulose (Blown-in)	Rigid Foam Panels
R-Value (per inch)	6.0 – 7.0	2.9 – 3.8	3.2 – 3.8	4.0 – 6.0
Air Sealing	Excellent	Poor	Moderate	Good
Moisture Resistance	Good	Low	Low	Good
Soundproofing	Very good	Poor	Moderate	Moderate
Lifespan	20-80 years	10-25 years	20-30 years	30-50 years
Installation	Professional (spray-applied)	DIY or professional	Blown-in, professional installation is recommended	DIY or professional (cut and fit)
Cost per sq. ft. (in CAD)	$3 – $7	$0.70 – $1.50	$1.50 – $2.50	$2 – $4
Sustainability	Mixed, depending on the type)	Mixed with recycled options	With recycled content	Depends on the brand
Resistance to fire	Treated options available	Can melt or burn	Requires fire retardant	Some types are flame-resistant
Cons	More expensive	Lower R-value	Messy and settles over time	Difficult to install in narrow spaces

Do you see the significant benefits of urethane insulation? Get expert advice and compare your options using free quotes from our reliable partners.

How do Professionals Install Urethane Insulation?

Professional urethane installation is a specialized process that involves applying liquid foam that expands and cures to become an insulation layer.

It can be done in existing homes or new construction. It also comes in 2 types – closed-cell and open-cell.

Open-cell foam is typically used as an air sealant and insulation, whereas closed-cell foam acts as a moisture barrier.

Take a look at how professionals install urethane insulation in steps:

Step 1: Preparation

The target area is cleaned and loose materials and debris will be removed. Protective coverings are placed in surrounding areas to shield them from overspray. Good ventilation is essential to safe and efficient curing.

Step 2: Application

In open-cell foam, the material is sprayed into wall cavities and other spaces for desired air sealing. It is also applied from the inside or outside of a wall, with or with no insulation.

In closed-cell foam, the material is sprayed on exterior surfaces like the roof or wall so it can act as a moisture barrier and insulator. It can be combined with other insulation materials.

Professionals have specialized equipment to apply the foam thoroughly for complete coverage and efficient air sealing.

Step 3: Curing and Finishing:

The foam expands and cures to form a solid insulating layer within a few hours. Excess foam is trimmed for a professional quality finish. Good ventilation is maintained during this stage and after per local building codes or as recommended by the manufacturer.

Spray foam should be installed by professionals who have the proper equipment and training to perform the work in compliance with local building and safety codes.

Hire an experienced contractor near you from our vast network by filling out the short online form on this page.

What is the Cost and ROI of Urethane Insulation?

If you are considering urethane insulation for your property, it is important to fully understand the financial aspects of this project upfront and in the long term.

Upfront Costs

Urethane insulation is more expensive than other insulation materials. The initial cost will be based on the type and thickness of the foam, the size of the area, and the fees of the contractor.

Typically, open-cell foam insulation costs from $0.45 to $0.70 per sq. ft. while closed-cell foam ranges from $1 to $1.50 per sq. ft. A 500-square-foot area will cost around $1,000 for open-cell foam and up to $3,000 for closed-cell foam.

Savings over Time

While the upfront cost is higher, energy savings over time are significant. Urethane insulation can decrease energy bills by as much as 30% a year because of its superior thermal resistance. It also increases the structural integrity of your home and improves indoor air quality.

These benefits can all add up to significant savings in the long term. Most homeowners can recover the upfront costs through energy savings within 3 to 5 years.

Urethane Insulation Installation & Health Risks

You need to leave your home while urethane insulation is being installed and for a certain period after. The chemicals and fumes pose health risks.

Professionals will tell you to stay away for at least 24 hours to ensure proper curing of the foam and ventilation.

As you can imagine, DIY urethane insulation installation can be risky to your health and safety. We highly recommend hiring the right contractors to do the work for you.

Insulation Contractors Can Help with Energy Rebates

You could qualify for homeowner energy rebates and grants to save money on upgrades that improve the energy efficiency of your home.

Insulation contractors are familiar with available rebates you can qualify for and will help you meet the required criteria for these rebates.

For instance, Ontario’s 2025 rebate program is available to homeowners who want to upgrade energy efficiency. The home must be a primary residence in Ontario with proof of ownership.

Vacation homes and rental properties are excluded.

In Quebec, the Renoclimat Program and Hydro-Québec LogisVert Program offer financial assistance for insulation work.

An energy home audit is usually required before and after the work is completed.

How to Choose the Right Urethane Insulation Contractor

Before hiring a urethane insulation contractor, you can check if they are certified, licensed, and carry the proper insurance.

In Ontario, the Building Code prohibits unlicensed individuals from applying spray foam insulation in the home.

You should ask a contractor the following before the start of your project:

Do I need to do any upgrades first?
What is the best type of insulation for my home?
What is the estimated cost of this upgrade?
Can I qualify for any energy rebates?
Do you guarantee the work, and what are these guarantees?

Canadian-made insulation materials are available; ask your contractor for his recommendations.

Compare and choose the best contractors near you using our short online form today! These free and no-obligation quotes can help you save money on your home insulation project.

How Much Does Attic Insulation Cost? Prices and Quotes

May 5, 2025 by Patrick Beaudette

Attic insulation costs range from $1,600 to $3,300 for a standard-sized attic.

The cost varies depending on the size of the attic, the type of insulation used, and the complexity of the work.

For instance, blown-in insulation could cost $1.00 to $2.50 per square foot, whereas spray foam is generally more expensive.

If you are planning an attic insulation project anytime soon, this brief guide can help you determine the best insulation materials, the potential costs, and how to find the right contractor.

If you want accurate quotes, please fill out the short online form on this page to receive NO-OBLIGATION quotes from our reputable partners.

Compare prices and services to get the best attic insulation package from top contractors near you.

Attic Insulation: A Crucial Project for Homeowners

Attic insulation is one of the most essential things a homeowner must do to make sure the home is well-insulated.

Good insulation allows the home to maintain a desirable temperature throughout the seasons. Attic insulation can reduce heating and cooling bills.

But how is attic insulation done? This requires a barrier to be placed to prevent energy flow from the interior to the exterior. With good attic insulation, the home stays warm when it is cold outside and cool when the weather is hot.

By insulating the attic properly, the home becomes more energy-efficient and prevents moisture build-up that causes damage.

Benefits of Proper Attic Insulation

To emphasize why attic insulation is so important, here is a more detailed overview to help you understand.

1.Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings:

2.Increased Comfort and Indoor Air Quality:

Insulation helps to regulate indoor temperature to make the home warmer in wintertime and cooler in the summertime.
It also reduces condensation and moisture buildup which improves air quality in the home. Moisture buildup, if left unchecked, can lead to mold and mildew growth.
Good attic insulation also lowers noise transmission from outside to promote a quieter home environment.

3.Increased Home Value and Durability:

4.Eliminate Pests

5.Sustainability:

6.Additional Benefits:

Good insulation prevents ice dam formation on the roof which leads to roof damage.
It also prevents pollen, dust, and other allergens to promote better indoor air quality.
Some types of attic insulation are also fire-resistant. Although insulation alone cannot prevent a fire, some insulation materials can slow the spread of flames to reduce property damage.

Attic insulation is a good investment that offers numerous benefits to homeowners. From promoting better health, a more comfortable home, and lower energy bills, the money you spend on attic insulation is worth every cent.

Find the best attic insulation contractors near you using our short online form at NO COST.
Get competitive quotes to compare to save more money!

Types of Attic Insulation Available in Canada

Choosing the right type of attic insulation is essential for energy efficiency, comfort, and durability. Homes in Canada endure severe seasonal changes.

When considering the different types of attic insulation, priority should be placed on the product’s R-value or thermal resistance.

Good insulation must reach the thermal resistance that will keep warm air out in the summer and winter. The R-value plays a critical role in the efficiency of attic insulation.

Below you will find the different attic insulation types and their pros and cons.

1. Fiberglass Batt Insulation

Pre-cut spun glass fiber panels.
Ideal for standard joist spacing and accessible attics.
Pros: Easy to install, affordable, and fire-resistant.
Cons: Gaps can lower effectiveness. They are not suitable for irregular spaces.
R-Value: ~R-3.0 to R-3.7 per inch.

2. Blown-In Cellulose Insulation

Loose-fill recycled paper material treated with fire retardants.
Suitable for filling gaps or irregular attic spaces.
Pros: Environment-friendly, good air sealing, and effective in narrow spots.
Cons: May settle over time, thus reducing R-value.
R-Value: ~R-3.2 to R-3.8 per inch.

3. Spray Foam Insulation (Open or Closed Cell)

Liquid foam that expands and hardens in place.
Good for maximum air sealing and moisture control.
Pros: Seals air leaks and good moisture barrier.
Cons: More expensive and requires professional installation.
R-Value: Open-cell: ~R-3.5 to R-4.0 per inch; Closed-cell: ~R-6.0 to R-7.0 per inch

4. Mineral Wool (Rock Wool) Insulation

Made from natural rock or steel slag fibers.
Ideal for soundproofing and fire resistance
Pros: Fireproof, water-resistant, mold-resistant.
Cons: More expensive than fiberglass.
R-Value: ~R-3.0 to R-3.3 per inch.

The recommended attic insulation R-value is R-50 or more for increased comfort in the home and higher energy savings.

Consult insulation experts in our network to determine the best insulation materials that suit your needs and budget.

Homeowners can save up to 20% per year on heating and cooling bills with effective insulation. To get the best results, compare professional quotes today using our short online form.

Cost Comparison: Attic Insulation Types in Canada

In Canada, the cost of attic insulation can vary depending on the material and installation method. They typically range from $1.50 to $4.00 per square foot.

Fiberglass and blown-in cellulose are the cheapest types while spray foam and cellulose poured or wet-spray are more expensive.

Below is a breakdown of estimated costs for the different types of attic insulation available.

1. Fiberglass:

2. Cellulose:

3. Spray Foam:

4. Rockwool:

The cost of upgrading your attic insulation will depend on several factors including:

The size of the attic (in square feet)
The existing type of insulation material in the attic
Required treatments before the insulation product can be installed
Depth of the existing insulation
Scope of the project

Expect to spend between $1.50 and $3.50 per foot or about $1,700 to $2,100 for attic insulation.

Spray foam is the most expensive insulation and is ideal for new buildings and for noise reduction.

Blown-in insulation is the cheapest and is ideal for old attics.

The square footage for insulation has a huge impact on the overall cost. The bigger the area, the higher the budget required for insulation. The accessibility of the attic will also be considered by the contractor when estimating costs.

The contractor could charge around $70 per hour. It is advisable to hire an electrician to insulate around electric cables and junction boxes. This would increase your overall costs.

Would you like to get a quote for attic insulation for your home? Our partner contractors will be happy to send you FREE quotes. Just fill out the short online form on this page.

What are the signs your attic needs better insulation?

If you are experiencing the following, your attic may be in need of better insulation.

Professional insulation contractors can check your attic to determine what you need and how much it will cost.

Connect with reputable contractors near you using our short online form.

How long does it take to insulate an Attic?

The time to complete attic insulation varies; it could take just a few hours or a few days. It depends on the size of the attic and the type of insulation.

For a 1,000 square-foot attic using blown-in cellulose insulation, it could only take a few hours.

Foam board insulation, on the other hand, may take longer, especially if existing materials need to be removed.

How much do homeowners spend on Attic Insulation?

You probably want to know how much you need for attic insulation. The following figures will give you an idea of what to expect.

Insulation type:

Blown-in insulation: Quite popular among homeowners, it costs from $1,000 to $2,000.

Spray foam insulation: More expensive and ranges from $1,500 to $3,500.

Batt (rolled or blanket) insulation: Cheaper and averages around $2,100.

Please note that these are average prices that may vary depending on your project’s specifics. Every home is unique, allowing homeowners to choose from various options that suit their needs and budget.

Choosing DIY vs. Professional Attic Insulation

Both DIY and professional attic insulation offer distinct advantages.

DIY insulation could help you save on labour costs but professional installation ensures expert installation and potentially higher energy savings.

Professionals use proper equipment and are knowledgeable about the methods of installation, thereby leading to faster completion and more efficient work.

You can save a lot of time and effort with professional attic insulation. It can also help you save money in the long term because professionally installed insulation lasts longer.

DIY is time-consuming and entails hard work, especially if you need to remove old insulation or if the attic space is complex.

If you are not experienced or don’t have the proper tools, your work may not produce optimal results which would be a waste of time and materials.

If your attic is hard to reach or has irregular spaces, special equipment like spray foam with professional installation is recommended.

To get a better comparison of DIY vs professional insulation, compare multiple quotes from our partner contractors, free of charge.

How to Choose the Right Contractor for Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is crucial to your comfort and the overall efficiency of your home. Investing in good attic insulation can potentially increase the value of your home and help you to save on energy bills at the same time!

It is essential to hire the right professionals for attic insulation as it will affect your comfort for many years to come.

Check the contractor’s qualifications and the installers who will be doing the work. Don’t be shy to ask for references from previous homeowners for work done in the past.

Homeowners get peace of mind when they look at the license and insurance coverage of contractors. These ensure your contractor conducts business legally, has the proper credentials, and has insurance coverage in case of property damage or accidents.

Compare contractors for attic insulation from our network where each professional is screened thoroughly for your protection.

Fill out the short online form on this page today to receive FREE and NO OBLIGATION quotes.

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