• Attic Insulation Levels: Calgary’s climate requires attic insulation with at least an R-60 rating to prevent heat loss effectively. Look for gaps, thinning, or settled insulation
• Wall Insulation: Many older Calgary homes have minimal or outdated wall insulation. Consider retrofitting walls with new insulation for improved energy retention.
• Basement and Crawl Space Insulation: Cold air often rises from uninsulated basements, cooling the main living areas. Adding insulation to basement walls and crawl spaces can reduce this effect and improve overall comfort
• Windows and Doors: Sealing leaks around windows and doors with caulk, weatherstripping, or insulating film helps prevent drafts, enhancing energy efficiency.

In Calgary’s winter, proper attic insulation is crucial for retaining heat. In older homes, attic insulation may be thin or deteriorated. Adding blown-in attic insulation can significantly improve your home’s ability to retain heat. Blown-in insulation is affordable, quick to install, and effective in filling gaps and hard-to-reach areas.

• Improves Heat Retention: Keeps warm air inside, reducing strain on your heating
  system.
• Reduces Energy Bills: Proper attic insulation can lower your energy bills by up to
  30-40%.
• Protects Against Ice Dams: Insulation prevents melting snow from refreezing at roof
  edges, which can cause ice dams and roof damage.

Homes often have cracks and gaps that allow cold air to seep in and warm air to escape.    Common areas for air leaks include windows, doors, electrical outlets, and vents. Using caulk or weatherstripping to seal these leaks can make a significant difference in winter comfort

• Windows and Doors: Install weatherstripping around frames and caulk any gaps.
• Electrical Outlets and Light Switches: Use foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates to reduce drafts. 
• Chimneys and Vents: Cold air can enter through gaps around chimneys and attic vents; proper sealing here can make a noticeable difference. 
• Garage Doors: If your garage is attached, weatherstrip the garage door to prevent drafts from entering living areas.

Uninsulated basements can make floors above feel colder, increasing heating needs. Adding rigid foam insulation to basement walls and crawl spaces can improve warmth and comfort.

• Improves Overall Home Temperature: A well-insulated basement helps keep the entire home warmer. 
• Prevents Cold Floors: Insulating the basement floor or walls can reduce cold spots in rooms above. 
• Increases Energy Efficiency: Insulation helps retain heat, reducing the need for additional heating.

*Extra Tip: Insulate basement headers (the top of basement walls) and sill plates to prevent
drafts and cold air from entering.

Wall insulation is often overlooked in homes, especially those built before modern
energy standards. Upgrading wall insulation with blown-in fiberglass or spray foam insulation
can dramatically improve indoor comfort.

• Blown-In Fiberglass: Ideal for filling empty wall cavities and boosting R-value in existing walls.
• Spray Foam: Offers a high R-value and seals out air, making it perfect for high-performance insulation needs

• Check for Vapor Barriers: Older homes may lack proper vapor barriers, which can
  affect insulation effectiveness
• Insulate Rim Joists: The perimeter of your house at each floor can be a major heat
  loss point.

For homeowners who want to winterize their home in an eco-friendly way, consider using
sustainable insulation materials. Some eco-friendly insulation options include cellulose (recycled paper), and fiberglass (made from recycled glass). These materials provide effective insulation while reducing environmental impact.

If you’re ready to winterize your Calgary home, Sorell Insulation offers expert services to improve insulation and increase energy efficiency. Professional installation ensures that insulation is added to the right areas, providing the best possible results.

• Thermal Imaging Assessments: Professionals may use thermal cameras to identify
  unseen cold spots.
• Customized Recommendations: A professional can recommend insulation types that
  best match Calgary’s winter climate.
• Expert Materials: Sorell uses high-quality, eco-friendly insulation materials suited for
  Calgary’s climate.
• Lasting Results: Professional insulation lasts longer and offers superior performance

With Calgary’s harsh winters, winterizing insulation in a Calgary home can have a tremendous impact on comfort, energy efficiency, and heating costs. By conducting an audit, upgrading attic and wall insulation, sealing air leaks, and considering eco-friendly materials, you can prepare your home for Calgary’s coldest months. For those looking to make their homes warmer and more efficient, contact Sorell Insulation for a professional consultation and start the journey to a cozier, more sustainable home this winter.