🧱 Insulation Issues Found in Ottawa Homes

Real insulation defects and issues documented during home inspections across Ottawa and surrounding areas.

What We Check

  • Attic insulation — type, depth, and R-value adequacy for Ottawa's climate zone
  • Wall insulation — visible gaps, settling, or missing sections
  • Basement and crawlspace insulation — vapour barriers, coverage
  • Potential asbestos-containing materials in older homes
  • Insulation around penetrations — pipes, wires, light fixtures
  • Thermal bridging — areas where insulation is compromised
  • Moisture damage to insulation — compression, contamination

Common Issues We Find

  • Insufficient attic insulation below Ontario's minimum R-50 recommendation
  • Vermiculite insulation in older Ottawa homes — potential asbestos risk
  • Compressed or water-damaged batt insulation losing R-value
  • Missing vapour barrier in basement or crawlspace — potentially leading to mould growth and moisture issues
  • Insulation pushed aside around attic hatch — a common heat loss point
  • Gaps around pot lights allowing significant air and heat loss

Why This Matters

Proper insulation is critical for energy efficiency and comfort in Ottawa's cold climate. Inadequate insulation leads to high heating bills, ice damming, moisture problems, and uneven temperatures. Some older insulation types — particularly vermiculite — carry health risks that require professional testing before purchase.

Concerned About Your Home's Insulation?

Poor insulation costs Ottawa homeowners hundreds of dollars extra every winter. Find out before you buy.

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