Frequently Asked Insulation Questions

Blow-In-Blanket System

What is BIBS?

BIBS (Blow-In-Blanket System) is a patented insulation system using virgin fibreglass insulation (no additives, binding agents, or chemicals) to manufacture a seamless blanket of insulation in cathedral ceilings, floors, and walls. It is a unique state-of-the-art insulation system that uses conventional fibreglass which is processed into a blowing wool. The insulation is blown through a hose and out a nozzle into the cavity behind a fibre mesh that is attached to the studs.

Does BIBS require a vapour barrier?

Yes. All fibreglass insulation requires a vapour barrier.

What is the R value of BIBS compared to Batt insulation?

BIBS in a 2 x 6 wall will perform at an R24. Batts in a 2 x 6 wall are sold to perform at an R value of R19 to R24, but tests conducted by the National Research Council concluded that an R19 fibreglass batt with minor installation defects will only perform at an R12½. BIBS will always perform at the installed R value because the insulation is manufactured onsite to a specified density that ensures a true working R value.

Where can I use BIBS?

BIBS is normally installed in framed walls, cathedral ceilings, floor joists, and rim joists. BIBS is custom fit and can be used for irregular, difficult, and creative framing.

Are there any sound control benefits with BIBS?

Yes, definitely. The NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) is 1.15 using the ASTM C 423 test method with E795 Type A mounting. Studies conducted show that BIBS will contribute to a higher STC rating than most other insulation. An STC Rating (Sound Transmission Class) is an average rating across the entire wall assembly in a controlled ASTM E90 test. STC Ratings will vary for the same insulation used in different wall assemblies.

Can I install BIBS myself?

No. BIBS can only be installed by a certified licensed installer.

Will BIBS settle?

No, not if the fibreglass is installed at the correct design density. Certified BIBS contractors are required to do density tests in every application (generally every 600 feet). Caution should be taken if Cellulose is used in the Blow-In-Blanket System because it will settle. Thermo Seal will not install Cellulose in BIBS or attics because it settles and reduces the R value. BIBS won't settle from gravitational forces or household vibrations such as slamming doors. CCMC reported after a simulated drop test (60 times from a height of 2.5 cm) that there was no settlement

Does BIBS hold moisture?

No. BIBS insulation is not absorbent and, if exposed to moisture, will not wick up (pull water through) or hold water. It will dry out and retain its original R-value. Insulation is required to absorb not more than 5% moisture by weight. The ASTM C-553 test showed that insulation used in the Blow-In-Blanket System absorbed a maximum of 3% moisture by weight.

Does BIBS create void areas?

No. The insulation moulds itself around obstacles in the walls, eliminating voids, gaps or seams. Pipes, wiring, electrical boxes are synonymous with insulation voids, and voids mean inefficiency. The BIBS system fills tightly around all wiring and piping; leaving no costly gaps or voids that could allow cold air to enter your home or warm air to escape. BIBS manufactures a seamless blanket of insulation that custom fits any size or shape cavity. This guarantees a uniform R value throughout the entire cavity, and controls air infiltration.

Can I insulate the walls in my existing property?

Yes. BIBS can be installed in retrofit applications to help reduce heat loss and make your home more energy efficient. Retrofit applications can be installed from the interior or exterior of the home. Interior installations will require the use of a 2" hole saw to drill into each cavity in order to blow insulation into the wall. If you are already in the process of renovating your home and can remove any existing drywall or panelling, the installation can be done in the same way as new construction. Exterior retrofit installation can be achieved using a 2" hole saw through the exterior walls; but if are able to remove the exterior finishing so the cavity is accessible to us, there won't be a need to drill into the exterior of your home. The holes created will be plugged with wood which can be painted. There are no guarantees for results with retrofit construction. There are lots of factors that can affect the install, such as how much insulation is already present, if the existing insulation has sagged and moved, how accessible the area is, and if a working air barrier is still in place.

What is ventilation?

Vents are openings in the attic area that allow lost heat and moisture to escape. If you don't ventilate properly, water vapour can condense and collect on insulation and rafters. This will reduce the effectiveness of the insulation and could damage the house. We install cardboard and Styrofoam morvents to provide adequate ventilation. Morvents are attic roof vent baffles that hold the insulation away from the roof deck to permit air to enter the attic or under-roof space. The morvents are installed at the eaves or soffit area. Morvents should be installed between every other rafter. The roof should also be vented at or near the peak or at the gable ends. This ensures a flow of air from the eaves and exhausts at the ridge. Morvents are also called rafter vents and chute vents. Without ventilation, attic heat could penetrate into living areas during summer or heat the roof during winter causing ice dams.

What causes ice dams?

Ice dams form when convective heat is present in an attic and melts snow on the roof. This melted snow (water) runs down the roof, under the blanket of snow, to the edge of the roof where colder conditions cause it to freeze, forming ice dams. If ice dams are not removed, water may be caught behind them, forced under shingles or spill over to form icicles. This can result in costly damage to your home: wet (ineffective) insulation; stained or cracked plaster or sheet rock, damp, rotting walls, and stained, blistered or peeling paint.

Can I hot roof with BIBS?

No. The only insulation you can hot roof with is a medium density, rigid polyurethane foam.