FAQs
Welcome to SoundSeals Insulation FAQ page! We know that insulation and home efficiency projects can raise a lot of questions. Whether you’re curious about the different types of insulation, exploring our services, or looking into energy-saving promotions, we’re here to help. Browse through our FAQs below, organized by category, to find the answers you need. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to assist you!
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Can insulation help with noise reduction?Absolutely. Insulation, particularly types like mineral wool and cellulose, is effective at absorbing sound and reducing noise transmission between rooms and from outside, creating a quieter, more comfortable environment.
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How long does insulation typically last?The lifespan of insulation depends on the type and conditions it’s exposed to: Spray Foam Insulation: 20 to 30 years or more, often lasting the life of the building. Fiberglass Insulation: Typically 20 to 30 years, longer if undisturbed and not exposed to moisture. Cellulose Insulation: Usually 20 to 30 years, though it may settle slightly over time. Mineral Wool Insulation: 30 to 50 years or more, known for its durability.
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Do I need to remove my old insulation before installing new insulation?In many cases, it’s advisable to remove old insulation, especially if it’s damaged, contaminated, or contains hazardous materials like asbestos. Removing old insulation ensures that the new insulation performs optimally and maintains your home’s energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
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What types of insulation do you offer?We offer a variety of insulation options including spray foam, blown-in insulation, fiberglass batts, cellulose, mineral wool, and BIBs (Blow-In Blanket System). Each type has its own advantages, and our experts can help you choose the best option based on your specific needs.
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Can insulation help with moisture control?Yes, certain types of insulation, like spray foam, also act as moisture barriers, helping to prevent condensation and reduce the risk of mold growth.
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How does insulation improve energy efficiency?Insulation reduces heat transfer between the inside and outside of your home, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This reduces the need for heating and cooling, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment.
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Is deep foam injection suitable for all types of homes?Deep foam injection is effective for stabilizing foundations and soil, especially in older homes or buildings with settling issues. However, it is not used for insulating walls or improving thermal efficiency. For insulation needs, spray foam or other insulation methods are more appropriate.
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What is deep foam injection?Deep foam injection is a process primarily used in foundation repair and soil stabilization. It involves injecting expanding polyurethane foam deep into the ground to stabilize soil or lift a settling foundation. This technique is highly effective for addressing structural issues but is not related to insulating a home.
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How does deep foam injection differ from regular spray foam insulation?Deep foam injection and spray foam insulation serve entirely different purposes. While spray foam insulation is applied to walls, attics, and other surfaces to improve a building's thermal efficiency, deep foam injection is used beneath structures to stabilize foundations and prevent further settling. The key difference lies in their application: insulation for thermal protection versus foundation stabilization for structural integrity.
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What is the process for insulation removal?Our process includes assessing the condition of your existing insulation, sealing off the area to prevent debris spread, and using specialized equipment to remove the insulation safely. We then clean the area thoroughly to prepare it for new insulation.
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How do you dispose of the old insulation?We follow local regulations for safe disposal, especially when handling hazardous materials like asbestos. It’s important to note that removal of asbestos requires a licensed contractor due to the specialized safety protocols involved. We ensure that the disposal process is environmentally responsible and safe, adhering to all regulatory requirements.
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Why would I need to remove old insulation?Old insulation may need to be removed if it’s damaged, contaminated (e.g., by pests or water), or contains hazardous materials like asbestos. This ensures that the new insulation is effective and that your home remains safe and energy-efficient.
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Is asbestos removal dangerous?Yes, asbestos removal is a delicate process that should only be handled by trained professionals. It’s crucial to have a licensed contractor for both the removal and transportation of asbestos to ensure compliance with safety regulations. SoundSeals Insulation follows strict safety protocols to ensure that asbestos is safely removed and transported, protecting both your health and your home.
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How do I know if my home has asbestos insulation?Homes built before the 1980s often contain asbestos insulation. If you suspect asbestos, it’s important to have your home inspected by a professional. We provide thorough testing and inspections to confirm the presence of asbestos and recommend safe removal.
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What happens after asbestos is removed?After removal, we thoroughly clean the area and can install new, safe insulation to restore your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. It’s important to note that proper disposal of asbestos involves notifying the disposal facility with the necessary paperwork. This is where a licensed contractor, like ourselves, ensures all regulatory requirements are met for safe and compliant disposal.
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What is a Thermal Barrier?A thermal barrier is a material applied to insulation to provide protection from high temperatures. Unlike fireproofing, which aims to delay or prevent the spread of fire, a thermal barrier helps to manage the heat exposure to your insulation, ensuring it performs effectively and maintains safety during high-temperature conditions. It is designed to protect insulation materials by shielding them from heat, but it is not entirely fireproof.
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What areas of my home are thermal barriers applied?At SSI, we apply thermal barriers to our spray foam insulation and structural areas. This includes areas where insulation is installed and where high temperatures might pose a risk, such as around heating systems or in attics and basements. It’s crucial to ensure these areas are protected to maintain the safety and efficiency of your insulation.
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How long do thermal barriers last?Thermal barriers are designed to be durable and provide long-lasting protection. Regular inspections are recommended to ensure they continue to perform effectively over time, especially if there are changes or renovations to your home.
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How long does fireproofing last?Fireproofing materials are durable and designed to last for many years, though regular inspections are recommended to ensure their effectiveness over time.
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What areas of my home should be fireproofed?Common areas for fireproofing include attics, basements, and structural beams. Fireproofing is also recommended around fireplaces, furnaces, and other high-risk areas. At SoundSeals Insulation, we specialize in fireproofing for our spray foam insulation and structural areas to ensure comprehensive protection for your home.
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What is protective fireproofing?Protective fireproofing involves applying fire-resistant materials to your building’s structural elements to prevent or delay the spread of fire. This enhances the safety of your property and gives occupants more time to evacuate in case of a fire. It's important to note that while fireproofing improves fire resistance, no material is completely fireproof. Fireproofing materials are designed to withstand fire for a specific period, maintaining structural integrity during that time.
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What is house sealing?House sealing involves sealing cracks, gaps, and openings in your home’s exterior to prevent air leaks, improve energy efficiency, and enhance indoor comfort. It also helps to keep pests and moisture out. Key areas for sealing include around windows and doors, where air leaks are most common.
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What are the benefits of house sealing?House sealing can significantly reduce energy costs, improve indoor air quality, and increase comfort by eliminating drafts and maintaining consistent indoor temperatures.
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How does house sealing work with insulation?House sealing works hand-in-hand with insulation by ensuring that the insulated areas are airtight, preventing drafts and maximizing the effectiveness of your insulation.
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Can soundproofing be added to existing walls?Yes, soundproofing can be added to existing walls using methods like blown-in insulation, acoustic panels, or other soundproofing materials, enhancing the acoustic comfort of your home.
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How does soundproofing work?Soundproofing involves using materials that absorb sound and reduce noise transmission between rooms or from outside. This can be achieved through insulation, acoustic panels, or other specialized soundproofing materials.
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Where in my home should I consider soundproofing?Soundproofing is beneficial in bedrooms, home offices, and entertainment rooms where noise control is important. It’s also effective for reducing external noise from traffic or neighbors.
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What is concrete leveling, and why is it important?Concrete leveling is a process that restores sunken or uneven concrete slabs to their original position. This is important for eliminating tripping hazards, preventing structural damage, and improving the safety and aesthetics of your property.
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What’s the difference between Deep Foam Injection and Polyurethane Foam Injection?Deep Foam Injection targets deeper ground settlement and typically involves lighter, less dense foam, making it suitable for addressing deeper, larger-scale structural issues. Polyurethane Foam Injection, which we use for concrete leveling, uses denser, thicker foam, which expands and hardens to lift and level concrete. This makes it ideal for surface-level adjustments, providing precise corrections with minimal disruption.
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What are the common issues associated with sunken concrete slabs?Sunken slabs can cause tripping hazards, compromise the structural integrity of adjacent buildings, and increase liability risks for property owners. Addressing these issues through concrete leveling is essential to maintaining a safe and stable property.
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What does the concrete leveling process involve?Our process includes assessing the slab, drilling small holes, injecting high-density spray foam beneath the slab to lift it, and sealing cracks and joints to ensure a stable and durable result.
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Why should businesses choose SoundSeals Insulation for their commercial projects?Businesses choose us for our expertise in the commercial sector, our use of high-quality materials, and our focus on sustainability. Our proven track record in enhancing comfort, reducing energy costs, and ensuring regulatory compliance makes us a trusted partner for commercial insulation projects.
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How do you customize insulation solutions for commercial properties?We begin with a detailed assessment of your property’s needs, then collaborate with construction firms, architects, and project managers to develop customized insulation strategies that integrate seamlessly with your project’s design and construction phases.
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What commercial insulation services do you offer?We offer a range of commercial insulation services, including building envelope solutions, HVAC system insulation, specialized insulation (spray foam, rigid foam board, etc.), acoustic insulation, fire-resistant insulation, and energy audits. These services are tailored to enhance thermal performance, reduce energy costs, and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
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Can you help with regulatory compliance and sustainability?Yes, we offer consulting services to ensure your property meets all relevant regulations and sustainability goals. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest building codes and environmental standards, providing guidance on how to achieve compliance while maximizing energy efficiency and comfort.
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What is an energy audit, and how can it benefit my business?An energy audit is a comprehensive evaluation of your property’s energy use, identifying areas where efficiency can be improved. Our energy audits help businesses optimize their insulation strategies, reduce energy consumption, and lower operational costs. We provide actionable insights and recommendations to enhance your property’s energy efficiency and environmental footprint.
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What is radon gas, and why is it a concern?Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into homes from the ground. It is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in Canada. Long-term exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of lung cancer, making it crucial to test for and mitigate radon if necessary.
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Do you offer radon testing and mitigation services?Yes, we provide radon testing to determine if your home has elevated levels of radon. If necessary, we can recommend and install mitigation systems to ensure your home is safe and healthy.
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How can insulation help with radon gas?Proper sealing and insulation can help reduce the entry of radon gas into your home. Combined with radon mitigation systems, this approach can significantly lower radon levels and improve indoor air quality.
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Can I still qualify for the rebate if I am not an Enbridge customer?Yes, non-Enbridge customers can qualify for up to $5,000 in rebates for eligible retrofits. This program is designed to support all Canadian homeowners in enhancing their home’s energy efficiency.
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How do I apply for the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus?To apply, you must complete a Home Energy Assessment, which helps identify the most effective energy-efficient upgrades for your home. This assessment is required to qualify for the rebates available under the program.
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What is the Home Efficiency Rebate Plus?The Home Efficiency Rebate Plus is a federal government initiative that provides financial incentives for homeowners to make energy-efficient upgrades. This program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve home energy performance across Canada.
Technical Information and Resources
For those who require more detailed technical information, we provide access to our product data sheets and safety data sheets (SDS). These documents offer comprehensive insights into the specifications, applications, and safety precautions associated with our insulation and fireproofing products. Below, you can find links to download the relevant documents.
Downloadable Technical Data Sheets and Safety Data Sheets: