Living in an older home in Edmonton comes with plenty of charm—ornate architecture, original hardwood, and unique design features. But when it comes to comfort and energy efficiency, older homes often fall short.
If you’ve noticed high utility bills, chilly rooms in winter, or condensation issues, the culprit could be poor insulation. This leads many homeowners to ask:
Is spray foam insulation a good investment for older homes?
Let’s explore how spray foam works, why it’s effective in older homes, and whether it’s worth the cost for homeowners in Edmonton with the help of expert insulation contractors.
Why Older Edmonton Homes Struggle With Insulation
Edmonton’s harsh winters and fluctuating temperatures put homes to the test. Unfortunately, older homes—especially those built before the 1980s—often weren’t designed with energy efficiency in mind.
Common Insulation Problems In Older Homes
- Outdated materials: Fibreglass batts and cellulose degrade over time.
- Gaps & cracks: Poor air sealing leads to significant heat loss.
- Inconsistent insulation: Many older homes lack insulation in walls, crawlspaces, and attics.
- Moisture build-up: Improper vapour barriers can allow condensation to form.
According to Natural Resources Canada, sealing air leaks and upgrading insulation are two of the most effective ways to improve home energy efficiency.
How Spray Foam Insulation Works
Spray foam insulation is a liquid that expands on contact to fill cavities, cracks, and gaps. It then hardens into a durable, long-lasting foam that provides both insulation and an air seal.
There are two main types:
| Type | Best Use | Benefits |
| Open-cell foam | Interior walls, ceilings | Sound-dampening, flexibility |
| Closed-cell foam | Attics, basements, crawlspaces | High R-value, moisture resistance, rigid |
Unlike traditional insulation, spray foam conforms to uneven surfaces and hard-to-reach spaces, making it ideal for retrofitting older structures.
5 Reasons Spray Foam Is Worth It For Older Homes
1. Significant Energy Savings
Spray foam can reduce air leakage by up to 50%, resulting in lower heating and cooling costs. In a cold climate like Edmonton, where furnaces often run for 6+ months of the year, that translates into serious savings.
A properly sealed home also means less strain on your HVAC system, helping it last longer.
2. All-Season Comfort
With fewer drafts and improved thermal performance, your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Spray foam eliminates common cold zones, like floors above crawlspaces or near rim joists.
3. Vapour Control
Closed-cell spray foam acts as a vapour barrier, helping prevent condensation. This reduces the risk of mould or rot, particularly in basements and crawlspaces.
4. Long-Term Durability
Spray foam doesn’t sag, compress, or deteriorate over time. Once installed, it can last the lifetime of the structure. You won’t have to worry about replacing or topping up insulation again.
5. Boosts Home Resale Value
Buyers today are looking for energy-efficient homes. Spray foam upgrades can improve your EnerGuide rating, make your home more marketable, and command a higher price.
How Spray Foam Compares To Other Insulation Options
| Insulation Type | Air Sealing | Moisture Resistance | R-Value (per inch) | Longevity |
| Fibreglass batts | Low | Low | R-2.9 to R-3.8 | 10–25 years |
| Blown-in cellulose | Moderate | Low | R-3.2 to R-3.8 | 20–30 years |
| Spray Foam (Closed-Cell) | High | High | R-6 to R-7 | 50+ years (lifetime) |
Best Areas To Use Spray Foam In Older Homes
You don’t need to insulate the entire house to see results. Many homeowners in Edmonton start with key problem areas:
- Attics: Most heat escapes through the roof—spray foam helps seal everything tight.
- Basements & Crawlspaces: Combat moisture, drafts, and heat loss from the ground.
- Rim Joists: Common source of air leaks in older homes.
- Walls: Accessible during renovations or from the exterior.
Even insulating just the attic and basement can dramatically improve comfort and efficiency.
Addressing Concerns: Is Spray Foam Safe For Older Structures?
Some homeowners worry that spray foam may trap moisture or affect older wood framing. The truth is, when installed correctly by trained professionals, spray foam is completely safe for older homes.
A reputable contractor will:
- Assess vapour barrier needs
- Ensure proper ventilation
- Match the right foam type to your project
Cost Vs. Return: Is It Worth The Investment?
Spray foam insulation costs more upfront than other methods, but it delivers significantly better performance and lifespan.
Long-Term Value
- Lower monthly bills (savings of 20–40%)
- Less HVAC maintenance
- Better home resale value
- Improved air quality & comfort
Many homeowners recover their investment within 3 to 5 years, depending on the size of the upgrade and existing insulation levels.
About Classic Spray Foam
Classic Spray Foam is Edmonton’s trusted provider of high-performance spray foam insulation. We work with homeowners, builders, and contractors to retrofit homes using industry-leading products like Insulthane® 450 NM ocSPF, DC315, and Hygrothane.
From attics to crawl spaces, we insulate with precision to keep your home warm, dry, and energy efficient all year round.
Contact us today for more information.