Installing insulation is one of the smartest upgrades you can make to your Winnipeg home. Done properly, it improves comfort, lowers energy bills, reduces drafts, and helps prevent attic condensation and moisture issues during our long winters.
But great insulation results don’t start on installation day — they start with preparation.
At Above All Insulation, we follow a detailed, step-by-step process to ensure your project runs smoothly, safely, and professionally. Here’s what you need to know before we arrive.
Step 1: Understand Why You’re Upgrading
Most homeowners call us because they’re experiencing:
- Cold floors
- Drafty rooms
- High heating bills
- Frost or condensation in the attic
- Uneven temperatures between floors
In Winnipeg’s climate, attic under-insulation and poor air sealing are extremely common. Building code now calls for attic insulation around R-50, and many older homes fall far short of that standard .
Before installation begins, we assess:
- Existing insulation levels
- Air leakage points
- Ventilation conditions
- Moisture concerns
- Vapour barrier condition
Insulation without proper air sealing and ventilation can actually create problems — so we treat the home as a complete system.
Step 2: Site Setup & Access Planning
Insulation installation requires large equipment and truck-mounted systems .
Here’s what that means for you:
Truck Access
We need to park as close to your home as possible to run large insulation hoses inside. In Winnipeg, this often means using the back lane.
We carefully coordinate around garbage and recycling days so we’re not competing for space .
What you should do:
- Clear driveway or back lane access
- Move vehicles if needed
- Ensure outdoor power outlets are accessible
Step 3: How We Gain Access
Attic Projects
In most cases, we access the attic through a roof vent .
That means:
- We temporarily remove an existing roof vent
- Complete the insulation work
- Install a new roof vent before we leave
This method keeps your interior clean and avoids dragging hoses through your home.
Basement or Crawlspace Spray Foam
We access the space through the least intrusive route; either interior or exterior, depending on layout .
Step 4: Removal of Damaged or Problem Insulation
If insulation is:
- Moldy
- Wet
- Contaminated
- Poorly installed
- Compressed
…it must be removed before new insulation can be installed properly.
We use large truck-mounted suction hoses to remove old insulation efficiently and cleanly .
For spray foam projects, the surface must be:
- Clean
- Dry
- Free of debris or grease
This ensures proper adhesion and long-term performance.
Removal is a serious undertaking; and absolutely not a DIY job.
Step 5: Detailed Pre-Installation Preparation
Before adding insulation, our foreman performs a full inspection of the attic .
We check for:
- Plumbing stacks
- Exhaust fans
- Duct penetrations
- Electrical penetrations
- Attic access hatch condition
What We Do as Standard Protocol:
- Weatherstrip attic access
- Build a retainer wall around the attic hatch
- Install air chutes to maintain ventilation
Air chutes are critical in Winnipeg; they keep airflow moving through the attic, helping prevent winter condensation and summer overheating.
For spray foam installations, we:
- Cordon off the spray area
- Mask windows, doors, and floors
- Apply painter’s tape to studs for a clean finish
We aim for precision and cleanliness.
Step 6: What to Expect During Installation
Noise
Equipment can be loud, especially during spray foam application.
Temporary Restricted Areas
Attics, crawlspaces, or basements may be off-limits during work.
Spray Foam Curing
Spray foam requires approximately 24 hours to cure, and you should not occupy the space during that period .
We’ll guide you on ventilation and re-entry timing.
Step 7: Installation Standards
For attic upgrades, we:
- Air seal first
- Bring insulation levels up to R-50 where appropriate
For crawlspaces and rim joists:
- Closed-cell spray foam creates an air and moisture barrier
- Eliminates air leakage common in Winnipeg winters
For basements:
- Spray foam improves comfort
- Resists moisture
- Reduces mold risk compared to fibre insulation
We do not cut corners.
We follow manufacturer specifications to protect your warranty.
Step 8: Clean-Up & Final Walk-Through
When installation is complete:
- All materials and debris are removed
- Protective coverings are taken down
- Work areas are cleaned
- A final walk-through is completed with you
We pride ourselves on leaving your home better than we found it.
Preparing Your Home: Quick Checklist
Before installation day:
Exterior
- Move lawn furniture, BBQs, planters
- Clear driveway/back lane access
- Make outdoor power available
Interior
- Ensure attic/crawlspace access is clear
- Protect valuables near work areas
- Make pet arrangements
Communication
- Be reachable by phone
- Notify neighbours if you wish
- Ask questions before installation day
Final Thoughts
Insulation installation is not just about adding material; it’s about:
- Air sealing
- Moisture management
- Ventilation
- System performance
When you choose Above All Insulation, you’re choosing high standards, conscientious workers, and open communication .
If you’re ready to upgrade your attic, basement, crawlspace, or rim joists, book your insulation estimate today; and we’ll guide you through every step of the process.