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!
Why VipeQ Thermal Corkshield is the Future of Eco-Friendly Home Protection
As homeowners across Alberta look for smarter, greener ways to protect their homes, VipeQ thermal corkshield is quickly gaining popularity. This innovative spray-on solution offers a sustainable, energy-saving alternative to traditional exterior finishes. At Fusion Foam, we believe it is one of the best investments you can make to shield your property from the elements while boosting its long-term value.
Cork may seem like an unusual material for home protection, but it is actually a natural powerhouse. Sourced sustainably from cork oak trees, it is incredibly resilient, flexible and insulating. When applied as a spray, cork forms a durable, breathable coating that can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and resilience. Unlike stucco or vinyl siding, VipeQ thermal corkshield moves with your house through the changing seasons, preventing cracks, warping and moisture damage.
We know that protecting your home from Alberta’s harsh weather is a priority. From freeze-thaw cycles to blazing summer heat, your exterior must withstand a lot. Traditional cladding often breaks down over time, but cork’s cellular structure naturally resists temperature extremes, UV radiation and water infiltration. Studies from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory show that insulation materials with high flexibility and breathability, like cork-based sprays, can dramatically extend the life of a building envelope.
Installing spray cork can also make a noticeable difference in your energy bills. Cork’s thermal properties keep heat inside during winter and reflect heat away during summer, reducing the load on your HVAC system. Homeowners are ten times more likely to see lower bills when they invest in better insulation and sealing. Over time, the energy savings can more than offset the installation cost, making it a smart financial move as well as an eco-friendly one.
Another advantage of using thermal corkshield is its contribution to environmental sustainability. Cork harvesting does not harm the trees, and because the material is renewable and biodegradable, it has a smaller carbon footprint than synthetic finishes. Eco-conscious builders and homeowners are increasingly turning to cork solutions to meet green building standards and futureproof their properties.
At Fusion Foam, we specialize in a variety of cutting-edge insulation and protection solutions, including VipeQ spray cork. We also offer high-performance spray foam insulation services ‘near me’ to help you achieve maximum energy savings across your entire home or commercial property. Whether you are looking to insulate your attic, garage or walls, or add exterior cork protection, we can tailor a solution that fits your goals and your budget.
Ready to transform your home or building? Learn more about VipeQ Thermal Corkshield cost and how this natural technology can help you save energy, protect your investment and contribute to a healthier planet. Get in touch with our friendly team at Fusion Foam today to book a consultation or schedule your application service. We are proud to bring innovative, sustainable solutions to homeowners across Alberta and beyond.
Choosing the Best Insulation for Pole Barn or Shop: Why Spray Foam Wins Every Time
When building or renovating a shop or pole barn in Alberta, choosing the right insulation is crucial. The right choice protects your investment, boosts energy efficiency and ensures a comfortable environment year-round. At Fusion Foam, we specialize in providing high-performance spray foam insulation for shops and pole barns, and we are here to help you make the best decision for your project.
What Insulation is Best for a Shop?
Spray foam insulation is considered the best option for shops because it offers an unbeatable combination of air sealing, R-value and moisture resistance. Unlike traditional fibreglass batts, spray foam adheres to surfaces, sealing cracks and gaps that could allow drafts and pests. With its high R-value per inch, spray foam delivers superior performance without the bulky thickness of other materials.
What is the Cheapest Way to Insulate a Small Shop?
If budget is a top priority, blown-in insulation may be the most cost-effective solution. However, while the initial investment is lower, it does not provide the same level of air sealing or longevity as spray foam insulation. When considering lifetime value, spray foam often ends up being more economical because it dramatically reduces heating and cooling costs over time.
What Kind of Insulation do Commercial Buildings Use?
Commercial buildings typically use spray foam, rigid foam board or fibreglass insulation depending on the structure's needs. For shops and barns, spray foam is preferred due to its ability to resist moisture, reduce energy loss and improve structural strength. In metal or pole barn structures, spray foam also helps prevent condensation issues that can otherwise lead to rust and deterioration.
What is the Best R-Value for a Pole Barn?
The best R-value for a pole barn depends on its use. For general storage, an R-value of R-13 to R-19 is often sufficient. If you plan to heat or cool the space regularly, aim for R-30 or higher in walls and R-38 to R-49 in the roof. Closed-cell spray foam insulation achieves an impressive R-6 to R-7 per inch, meaning you can reach high R-values without requiring extremely thick walls.
Do I Need a Vapour Barrier in My Pole Barn Walls?
Yes, especially in Alberta’s variable climate, a vapour barrier is essential to prevent moisture buildup inside walls. Fortunately, closed-cell spray foam acts as its own vapour barrier once applied at the correct thickness. This eliminates the need for separate barriers, reducing labour and material costs while simplifying your construction process.
What is the Highest R-Value for 2x4 Construction?
Traditional fibreglass batts can only achieve about R-13 to R-15 in a 2x4 wall cavity. With closed-cell spray foam insulation, you can reach R-20 to R-24 in the same space. This performance makes spray foam the ideal choice for tight framing, where achieving maximum insulation value is critical.
Is Spray Foam Better Than Foam Board for a Pole Barn?
While foam board insulation offers good R-values, it requires meticulous installation to prevent air leaks. Spray foam insulation, on the other hand, fills every nook and cranny, eliminating air gaps completely. It also bonds tightly to metal, wood and concrete surfaces, making it highly durable and resistant to shifting over time. See how Fusion Foam's recent projects demonstrate the superior performance of spray foam.
When you are ready to upgrade your shop, pole barn or commercial building, Fusion Foam has you covered.
Choose Fusion Foam for Spray Foam Insulation Near Me!
Book a consultation with us today and see why we are Peace River’s trusted installers of the best insulation for pole barns, shops and more!