Crawl Space Insulation Code Guide

Crawl Space Insulation Code Guide

Alberta NBC 2023: Section 9.18 at a Glance

Alberta declared the National Building Code – 2023 Alberta Edition in force on May 1 2024, which means every new foundation or renovation permit must now meet its crawl-space rules. Under Article 9.18.1.3 a crawl space is judged heated when it carries un-insulated ducts or is not separated from conditioned rooms; in every other case it is unheated. The distinction matters because only heated crawl spaces inherit wall and rim-joist RSI targets from the living area above, whereas unheated spaces follow more modest minimums.

For one- and two-family homes in Climate Zone 7A (Peace River, High Level, Hay River) the prescriptive path still asks for RSI 1.96 (≈ R-11) on interior crawl-space walls plus a continuous Class I vapour retarder over exposed soil. Builders who bump their projects to Tier 3 energy performance often choose to thicken insulation to RSI 2.64 for extra blower-door margin, but Tier 1 remains acceptable when the assembly stays under 50 Pa air-leakage limits. In the Northwest Territories (Zone 8A) building officials reference the same NBC tables yet encourage RSI 2.64 outright because design temperatures sink below -40 °C.

Because medium-density closed-cell spray foam achieves roughly RSI 0.007 per mm, two 50 mm passes satisfy both the thermal and vapour barriers in a single operation. Once the foam bonds to concrete or preserved wood, it also acts as the required air barrier, eliminating poly sheeting and the maze of tape joints that accompany it. That airtight layer blocks soil-gas entry, which is critical along the Peace River Radon Belt where test kits often exceed Health Canada’s 200 Bq/m³ guideline.

Beyond Insulation: Vapour, Radon and Air Control

NBC Sentence 9.18.3.2 asks for a 0.15 mm ground sheet lapped 150 mm at seams and sealed to walls. We first spray a low-lift skim to bond the polyethylene, then return with the full-depth lift so sheet edges become locked in place. That method means the vapour barrier never peels or tears when plumbers crawl in later, and the foam’s rigidity bridges small cracks where mice or carpenter ants might otherwise slip through.

Where municipal inspectors reference CAN/CSA-B662 Radon Rough-In standards we extend the foam jacket over the drain tile to ensure suction points remain airtight for future mitigation fans. The R-value vs cost comparison by Green Building Canada explains why spray foam’s higher price per square metre can still win on lifecycle cost once air-sealing and radon protection are tallied.

Our Fusion Foam Approach in Northern Climates

We start every project with a moisture probe of concrete and sill plates, because CAN/ULC-S705.2 voids its warranty if substrate moisture tops 19 %. Heated trailers keep drums within the 16 °C to 30 °C window even during a Hay River cold snap, and digital logs record pressure, temperature and lift thickness so inspectors can sign off without extra site visits.

Once the ground sheet is locked, we spray the wall in two 50 mm lifts, waiting for exotherm to fall below 48 °C before the second pass. Each corner receives an angled fillet of foam to eliminate the vertical air-channel effect documented in NBC Appendix A. Because the foam now serves as vapour control, we omit separate poly at the underside of the floor joists and instead install unfaced drywall as the 15-minute thermal barrier required by Part 3 and Part 9.

Homes that route supply ducts through the crawl space become heated by definition, so we increase thickness to match the above-grade wall RSI and seal duct joints with mastic to avoid energy penalty points under NBC Table 9.36.8.8. Where plans call for hydronic loops or HRV cores in the space, we insulate plumbing and pipe hangers before the final blower-door test to ensure the entire plenum performs as one envelope.

Fusion Foam’s crews travel with self-contained power and heat so remote projects never sit idle waiting for utility hookups. That mobility lets us service cabins on Great Slave Lake and farm shops across Peace Country with the same code-compliant result.

Throughout the process we reference our insulation-renewal program for owners who must first strip mouldy fibre batts. We remove debris, disinfect wood and deliver a conditioned crawl space that stands up to wind-driven snow and summer humidity alike.

Call Fusion Foam for Ag, Commercial & Residential Crawl Space Insulation

If you are planning a build or retrofit in Alberta or the Northwest Territories and need crawl space insulation that passes inspection the first time, reach our team through the Fusion Foam contact page. We will size the foam, document CAN/ULC-S705.2 compliance and leave you with an airtight, radon-safe crawl space ready for decades of northern winters.

Attic Insulation Code Alberta

Unvented Roof Clause and Variance 19-BCV-022 

The National Building Code – Alberta Edition says that every attic or cathedral ceiling must be ventilated unless “it can be shown to be unnecessary.” Article 9.19.1.1 creates that opening, but an authority still needs formal proof. Alberta issued province-wide Variance 19-BCV-022 to spell out when an unvented roof insulated with spray polyurethane foam is acceptable.  

The variance cites Sentence 9.19.1.1 and allows a sealed roof deck when closed-cell foam provides the full thermal resistance and doubles as the vapour and air control layer. In practice that means we spray medium-density foam directly against the roof sheathing, then finish with gypsum or an intumescent coating so the assembly earns the 15-minute thermal-barrier rating required by Part 3 and Part 9. 

Peace Country, High Level and Hay River lie in Climate Zone 7A, where Tier 1 of Section 9.36 calls for RSI 6.0 (about R-34) at the roof deck. Our closed-cell product delivers roughly RSI 0.007 per millimetre, so 175 mm of foam passes Tier 1 without ventilation. Builders who step up to Tier 3 add only another 20 mm. In the Northwest Territories, Zone 8A nudges the minimum higher, so we thicken the foam to 200 mm and still keep the roof cavity slim because no vent channel is needed. That slimmer section gives designers freedom to push ceiling heights without exceeding overall building height caps. 

CAN/ULC S705.2 Daily-Log Discipline 

Spray foam is accepted under Variance 19-BCV-022 only when the installation meets CAN/ULC S705.2, the national site-practice standard for medium-density foam. S705.2 demands that every project generate a Daily Work Record noting substrate temperature, ambient humidity, pressure calibration and lift thickness. The standard also obliges the installer to carry a photo licence that proves current training status (Standards Council of Canada). We run those logs on a cloud app so municipal inspectors can view them in real time, which speeds approvals in remote districts where a second trip could mean a 600-kilometre drive. 

Thermal-Barrier Choices in Crawl Spaces and Kneewalls 

Because the foam in an unvented roof now acts as insulation, vapour retarder and air barrier, the only remaining code item is fire protection. The default is 12.7 mm Type X gypsum, yet Alberta accepts intumescent coatings with CAN/ULC-S124 listings when space is tight. Our crews document wet-film thickness and cure time to show equivalency before the inspector arrives. The same approach serves crawl-space walls, where Sentence 9.18.2.1 calls for RSI 1.96 insulation and a ground vapour retarder. Two passes of foam meet both clauses in one operation and seal radon entry points, a bonus in Hay River where soil readings can spike. 

Energy-Audit Payback 

Unvented foam roofs reduce air leakage because there is no vent chute interrupting the air barrier. Tier 3 homes in Zone 7A must test below 2.5 ACH @ 50 Pa; our completed attics usually fall under 1.0 ACH. That airtightness lets mechanical designers downsize heat-recovery ventilators and furnaces, trimming both capital cost and emissions. For owners curious about basic chemistry we recommend the public overview of spray foam on spray foam insulation which explains why the material doubles as an air seal as soon as it hardens. 

Every attic project begins with a site review and ends with an electronic code-compliance file that you can forward to appraisers, insurers and warranty providers. If you have existing batts that sag or show frost stains, consider our insulation-renewal service. We remove damaged fibres, spray closed-cell foam to the exact thickness required by Variance 19-BCV-022 and leave your home ready for drywall the same day. 

We travel throughout northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. Visit our contact page to schedule a code-ready attic upgrade that will keep winter heat where it belongs. 

Spray Foam Insulation Alberta Code Guide 2025

Section 9.25 and CAN-ULC Standards 

Alberta’s adoption of the National Building Code (NBC 2020) brings spray polyurethane foam under Section 9.25, which states that any site-applied medium-density foam must be installed in accordance with CAN/ULC-S705.2, while the material itself must carry a CAN/ULC-S705.1 listing.  

Every Fusion Foam rig loads product that already bears a Canadian Construction Materials Centre (CCMC) number, and our installers carry active S705.2 photo licences that inspectors in Alberta and throughout the Northwest Territories recognise on sight. The standard obliges us to record substrate moisture, drum temperatures and lift thickness on daily logs, so municipal officials can approve the job without extra site visits. 

Section 9.25 also treats spray foam as part of the building’s air barrier system when it is applied to a continuous depth and sealed at all edges. That provision allows us to eliminate separate polyethylene vapour retarders because closed-cell foam becomes a vapour retarder at only thirty-eight millimetres. The result is cleaner framing, tighter air-change results and fewer call-backs for condensation. 

Thermal Barriers and Fire Protection 

Part 3 and Part 9 of the NBC require a fifteen-minute thermal barrier wherever foam is exposed to an occupied space. The simplest path is a layer of 12.7 mm Type X gypsum, yet in cramped mechanical rooms we can switch to an intumescent coating that code officials accept as an ignition barrier when it carries a CAN/ULC-S124 approval. We notify the authority having jurisdiction before spraying, ensuring the alternative solution is documented in the permit file. Rocky View County’s spray foam guideline mirrors that approach and cites the same code clauses, making plan review straightforward for builders across the province. 

Energy Tier Targets for Climate Zone 7A 

Alberta uses tiered energy requirements that sit alongside NBC Section 9.36. In Zone 7A, which covers Peace River country, Tier 1 prescribes RSI 3.7 (about R-21) for above-grade walls and RSI 6.0 (about R-34) for roofs. A two-hundred-millimetre layer of closed-cell foam easily reaches the wall target, while a roof needs only one hundred and sixty millimetres when the deck is unvented. Builders who choose Tier 3 must push walls to RSI 3.85 and roofs to RSI 6.34, yet spray foam meets that challenge by adding less than twenty millimetres to the assembly thickness. BILD Alberta’s zone map confirms those numbers for new construction and major additions. 

When we cross the border into the Northwest Territories we follow the same NBC tables, but Zone 8A nudges minimum wall values higher. Our design sheets add an extra lift of foam or combine exterior mineral wool with interior foam to satisfy that climate. Either way, the air-sealing advantage of spray foam keeps blower-door results below two air changes per hour at fifty pascals, even on remote cabins where generator heat loss matters. 

Practical Assembly Choices 

A common cathedral-ceiling detail involves back-venting beneath the sheathing, yet the NBC lets us construct a warm, unvented roof when spray foam delivers the full RSI requirement directly to the deck. Research by RDH Building Science, prepared for Alberta codes staff, confirms the approach as an engineered solution for Part 9 homes, provided the foam meets S705 standards and the roof remains watertight. We submit that engineering letter with permit applications so owners avoid the additional cost of ventilation baffles. 

In crawl spaces, NBC 9.18 calls for a vapour retarder over soil and RSI 1.96 insulation on interior foundation walls. Two fifty-millimetre passes of closed-cell foam deliver both requirements in a single operation and seal potential radon entry routes. That dual role cuts labour in Hay River renovations where short building seasons make every day count. 

Chemistry, Environment and Safety 

Modern HFO-blown spray foams carry a global-warming potential of one or less, a ninety-nine-percent reduction compared to previous HFC blends. BASF’s technical paper on spray foam sustainability outlines the chemistry and documents third-party life-cycle assessments that back the change. During installation our crews use supplied-air respirators and negative-pressure fans so neighbouring trades can re-enter safely once the two-hour cure has passed. 

How We Prove Compliance 

Every Fusion Foam project starts with a signed scope sheet that lists climate zone, NBC tier level and occupancy conditions. The installer records ambient temperature, substrate temperature and foam rise time for each lift, then emails the S705.2 Quality Assurance report and core density photos to the site superintendent before packing up. Those documents form part of the permanent permit record, which protects the homeowner’s warranty and helps appraisers confirm that the insulation meets or exceeds current code. 

Expert Resources 

If you would like to explore technical guidance beyond the code itself, the Canadian Urethane Foam Contractors Association offers a public commentary that maps each clause of CAN/ULC-S705.2 to real-world field practice, including substrate cleaning, adhesive testing and thermal-barrier selection. 

Trust Fusion Foam for Expert Spray Foam Compliance 

Our team applies spray foam insulation Alberta homeowners can trust, with a clear inspection the first time. Whether you are framing a new shop in Peace River, tightening an attic in High Level or retrofitting a tourism lodge near Hay River, we tailor thickness and chemistry to the exact building code clause that governs your project. Review our service details at spray foam insulation or see how our High Level spray foam crew mobilizes to remote sites with self-contained heat and power.  

To schedule a code-ready install, reach us through the Fusion Foam contact page and let us deliver airtight comfort. 

Concrete Levelling vs. Replacement: What’s Right for Your Driveway This Summer?

Why Concrete Levelling is the Smarter Choice for Alberta Homeowners 

June in Alberta brings warm weather, busy driveways and the perfect opportunity to address uneven or sinking concrete. Whether you're prepping your home for guests or simply fixing safety hazards, the question many homeowners ask is this: Should I repair my concrete or replace it? At Fusion Foam, we believe concrete levelling is often the better, faster and more cost-effective solution. 

If you’ve noticed sloped sidewalks, cracked steps or water pooling near your foundation, the underlying issue is usually shifting or eroded soil beneath the concrete slab. Our Alberta climate—with its freeze-thaw cycles, spring runoff and dry summers—can wreak havoc on the soil’s stability. The result? Concrete that settles unevenly or begins to crack. 

Concrete replacement may seem like the obvious fix, but it comes with some significant downsides. Full tear-outs are expensive, time-consuming and disruptive. Between demolition, disposal and curing times, you could be waiting weeks to walk or drive on that surface again. That’s where concrete levelling comes in. 

Using high-density polyurethane foam, Fusion Foam lifts your existing concrete from underneath. We drill small, precise holes in the slab and inject expanding foam that gently raises and supports the structure. The process is fast, clean and requires no demolition—plus you can use the surface again in just hours, not days. 

When compared to replacement, levelling is significantly more affordable. You avoid the cost of new concrete materials and labour-heavy tear-outs. Better yet, it extends the life of your existing concrete by addressing the root problem—soil instability. It’s not just a cosmetic fix; it’s a structural solution that protects your investment long term. 

Homeowners often ask whether concrete levelling is a permanent solution. The answer is yes—when done professionally. The polyurethane foam we use is water-resistant, stable in Alberta’s extreme temperatures, and designed to last. Unlike mud jacking, which uses heavier, moisture-prone materials, spray foam lifting keeps the soil dry and the slab in place for decades. 

Beyond durability, concrete levelling helps with another seasonal issue: water flow. Uneven concrete can direct rainwater and runoff straight toward your foundation. That kind of misdirection causes erosion, moisture buildup and even basement leaks. By levelling your slab, you restore proper drainage and improve your home’s defences during Alberta’s summer storms. 

Safety is also a big factor. Cracked and sunken sidewalks pose serious tripping hazards—especially for children, seniors and guests. Levelling restores a safe, flat surface without altering your property’s layout. Whether it’s a garage pad, front walkway or backyard patio, we can lift and stabilize it with minimal disruption. 

At Fusion Foam, we’ve helped countless Alberta homeowners make informed decisions between repair and replacement. We always start with an honest assessment, evaluating your slab’s condition, soil health and usage needs. For most clients, concrete levelling offers faster results, longer-lasting performance and better value. 

If you’re unsure where to begin, check out our concrete levelling services to learn how we can help restore your property this summer. We also offer complementary solutions like spray foam insulation and thermal corkshield to further protect your home and reduce energy loss. 

According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, structural maintenance like concrete repair is key to long-term energy efficiency and climate resilience. And the U.S. Department of Energy backs the benefits of preventative work in reducing future repair costs. 

Don’t wait for the next big storm—or another summer of stubbed toes and puddles. If your concrete is cracked, sunken or starting to shift, it’s time to explore your options. Choose smart, fast and effective with Fusion Foam’s trusted concrete levelling team. 

Is Your Concrete Ready for Summer? Why Concrete Lifting Matters Before the Heat Hits

As Albertans shake off the last of the spring chill and turn their attention to summer landscaping, many start noticing cracks, dips and uneven slabs on their driveways, walkways and patios. These imperfections aren’t just an eyesore—they’re a safety risk, a drainage problem and a threat to your home’s long-term stability. At Fusion Foam, we’re here to tell you that concrete lifting is one of the smartest things you can do before the summer sun takes over. 

Spring and early summer are the ideal seasons to correct concrete issues because of the ground’s condition. After a winter of freeze-thaw cycles and a soggy spring thaw, the soil beneath your concrete slabs is often soft or destabilized. If left untreated, this compromised soil can worsen with heavy summer use. From family foot traffic to parked vehicles, those surfaces need to be safe, strong and level. 

Concrete lifting—also known as slab jacking or polyurethane concrete raising—is a fast, cost-effective and non-invasive solution for restoring your concrete’s original position. Instead of tearing out and replacing a slab, we drill small holes, inject high-density polyurethane foam beneath the surface, and watch as it gently raises and stabilizes the concrete in real time. It’s clean, quiet and ready for use the same day. 

Unlike traditional mud jacking, which uses heavier, water-based slurry, Fusion Foam’s modern lifting method resists moisture and won’t break down over time. This is especially important in Alberta’s variable climate, where water infiltration can lead to future sinking. Concrete lifting protects your investment and stops minor problems from becoming major ones. 

One of the biggest summer benefits of concrete lifting is water management. Uneven surfaces often cause water to pool around your foundation or flow toward your home instead of away from it. When heavy summer rains hit, these problem areas can lead to erosion, basement leaks or even flooding. By levelling your concrete now, you’re improving your yard’s drainage and protecting your home’s structure during peak storm season. 

Another advantage? Curb appeal. Uneven front steps and tilted slabs detract from your home’s visual appeal. Whether you’re planning to host backyard barbecues or thinking about selling your property, now’s the time to give your concrete a facelift. Lifting rather than replacing not only saves you time and money—it enhances the look of your home instantly. 

Repair and Raise Sunken Concrete with Concrete Lifting in Alberta 

If you’re unsure whether your concrete needs lifting, look for these signs: pooling water, cracks that appear to widen, trip hazards, visible sinking at joints or doors that don’t close properly due to shifting slabs. The earlier you catch the issue, the simpler the fix. 

Our team at Fusion Foam is proud to offer residential and commercial concrete levelling services throughout Alberta. We use only premium spray foam products designed for Canadian soil and climate, and our technicians are trained to spot underlying issues before they become expensive repairs. We also offer spray foam insulation and thermal corkshield to keep your property protected, efficient and resilient year-round. 

Whether it’s your driveway, garage floor, patio or shop entrance, we can raise it, level it and extend its life without the cost and disruption of demolition. Don’t wait for July heatwaves and summer storms to worsen your concrete problems. June is the perfect time to book your service and set your property up for success. 

Visit Fusion Foam’s concrete levelling page to learn more about our process and book your free estimate!