The spring thaw often brings the unpleasant discovery of water leaks, particularly after a winter like this past one which brought incredible snow and ice storms. Ice dams are a leading culprit of leaks, adding stress to roofs and causing moisture buildup in the attics.
The root cause of those leak-causing ice dams, though, is often poor insulation. “In attics, poor insulation leads to excess heat loss. That heat melts the snow on your roof, which then refreezes at the colder eaves, forming ice dams that can cause water damage,” says Colin Hinksman, General Manager of Soundseals Insulation, one of the region’s leading insulation installers.
“If not resolved quickly, that wetness can quickly lead to mould growth.”
Mould doesn’t just leave your home or cottage with a musty odour; it can also be extremely detrimental to your roof’s structural integrity and your family’s health.
“The problem with mould is that once it’s taken root, it works its way through the insulation and surrounding wood structure, where it is almost impossible to get rid of… That is, until now.”
Soundseals Insulation is one of the first insulation companies in the region to offer Dry Ice Blasting to remove mould from homes and cottages before installing insulation.
Traditionally, mould has been tackled using antibacterial cleaners like bleach or abrasive tools like sandblasters to lift the layer of wood inhabited by the toxic spores. While bleach is imperfect and sand blasting is labour-intensive and messy, dry ice blasting offers a fast-acting alternative that’s both efficient and highly effective.
“It extinguishes mould instantly without leaving any lingering residue behind.”
If the mould isn’t properly removed before insulation is installed or replaced, it will simply grow back, whether in the attic, subfloor, basement or crawl space.
Even new builds aren’t immune from mould growth. “If it snows or rains on the home before the roof is installed, that moisture seeps into the basement or crawl space, and creates an ideal environment for mould to grow.”
That’s why contractors are asking Soundseals to treat the property for mould as well as installing the insulation. It ensures there are no problems down the road – problems the contractor will be held liable for. “It’s better to prevent mould as part of the insulation installation – it’s quick, easy, and worry-free.”
Soundseals offers complimentary consultations and free quotes. “Let us give you a healthier, more comfortable home.”
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
