Absolute Insulation Inc. in Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Nanaimo & Port Alberni compiled all the frequently asked questions of our clients in British Columbia to serve as your guide. Please read through them before deciding to work with us.

Q:   What's R-value? It's a measurement of an insulation's ability to block the movement of heat. The higher the R-value, the more insulative the material. Higher number = better performance.  The R-Value that is required is different for different areas of your home and is also dependent on which zone you live in British Columbia. There are different requirements for the R-Values for your Attic, Cathedral Ceilings, Exterior Walls, Floors over Unheated Space, Foundation Walls, Heated Floors (Slabs), Unheated Floors (slabs) above the frost Line & Garage Doors (when heated).  Ask our Insulation Expert which R-Value is required in your zone.  

Q?  What is the difference between R-Value & RSI?  Both are a measure of how well a material resists the passage of heat, R-Value is the imperial measurement and RSI is the metric equivalent. 

Spray foam, blown-in, and rigid-board type insulation are generally rated by their RSI Value per millimeter or R-Value per inch. Fiberglass and mineral-wool type insulation that is designed to fit into a framed cavity are generally rated by the size of the cavity that they are designed to fit into.

To convert an RSI Value to an R-Value, multiply the RSI Value by 5.678.

To convert an R-Value to an RSI Value, divide the R-Value by 5.678.

Q?    Do You Have Signs of Insulation Problems:

In the Winter

• Walls cold to touch

• Cold floors

• High heating costs

• Uneven heating levels within building

• Mold growing on walls

In the Summer:

• Uncomfortably hot inside air

• High cooling costs

• Ineffectiveness of air conditioning system

• Mold growing in basement