Frequently Asked Questions and the Answers

How do I arrange an estimate?

You can contact us to obtain a free estimate 2 ways:
Call us: 613-224-1677
Use our online form: go there now!

What is sprayed polyurethane Foam insulation?

Sprayed polyurethane foam insulation is a rigid cellular plastic. Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation acts as insulation, an air barrier and also a vapour barrier. O'Reilly Brothers applies both HEATLOK SOY® and SEALECTION 500®. Spray foam insulation maintains peak performance because it never deteriorates or decomposes due to time, temperature or usage.

Who applies sprayed polyurethane foam insulation? How?

Only a CUFCA (Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association) licensed installer is allowed to apply sprayed polyurethane foam insulation. To obtain licensing the installer needs to pass classroom instruction, hands on training and they must obtain experience in the field under the supervision of a trained contractor.

How is spray foam applied?

Spray foam insulation is sprayed directly into place onto the work surface (many substrates will accept foam). It is applied as a liquid, using a hose and spray gun set up. It is a combination of two substances that blend together on contact and immediately transform into a thick foam, permanently in place, creating an air-tight seal with any surface to which it is applied. The curing process happens within seconds. After several days, exposed foam may change colour, often to a yellowed state. This has zero impact on product effectiveness, it is simply a reaction to ultraviolet light, such as sunshine. As with any open surface, the foam insulation can be sprayed after electrical and plumbing services are in place. It then expands many times its initial volume in seconds, sealing all gaps.

Is sprayed polyurethane foam insulation environmentally friendly?

One of CUFCA's (Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association) objectives is to provide the most environmentally friendly insulation product in the industry. CUFCA does extensive testing to ensure that their product is safe and environmentally friendly.

Why should I choose spray foam insulation over other insulation products?

Spray foam insulation stops air leakage completely when professionally applied. Fiberglass batts will not stop air leakage at all while blown-in cellulose does slow down air leakage. Fiberglass will sag over time and cellulose will eventually settle leaving areas less insulated than others. In contrast, spray foam insulation lasts indefinitely as an inert, long lasting polymer. Spray foam completely adheres to the work surface; the result is a permanent barrier to heat loss and air entry. Also, spray foam is mold and moisture resistant unlike fiberglass and cellulose.

Can spray foam insulation seal my house too tight?

In the past, engineers designed homes to breathe and there was ventilation provided through the attic; the formula for building envelopes has since evolved. Your house DOES need to be ventilated, however, most home engineers and building scientists advise that you seal the structure as tight as possible and provide necessary ventilation through your air conditioning and heating system. Many systems employ an "air exchanger" which pre-conditions incoming outside air to control humidity and energy efficiency. This type of design along with spray foam creates a true Thermal Envelope.

Does foam insulation meeting building codes?

Both SEALECTION 500® and HEATLOK SOY® meet all the requirements of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) and exceeds the quality standards for the Standard for Thermal Insulation Spray Applied Rigid Polyurethane Foam, Medium Density, Material specifications. The new ecological HEATLOK SOY® spray foam insulation gives in a one step application a high long-term thermal resistance, an air-barrier material exceeding 500 times the NBC requirements as well as an adequate vapour-barrier.

Do you have a Soya based foam?

HEATLOK SOY® is one of the two foam products we apply. This Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation is made from renewable vegetable oils and recycled plastic that was in development for 4 years. DEMILEC, a foam manufacturer, recycles your plastic bottles into a Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation and offers you a performing and durable insulation system which reduces your energy costs and consumption when professionally applied by our team.

I have heard about "Zero Ozone Depletion", what is that?

HEATLOK SOY® has zero impact on the ozone layer. The insulation industry has an obligation to eliminate all the Ozone Depletion Substances (ZERO ODS) from their products by 2010. DEMILEC is the first Canadian manufacturer of spray polyurethane to develop the expertise to embrace the ecological turn (the sustainable development approach) by introducing recycled plastics, renewable natural oils and water.