About RiverHearth
A reference site covering home insulation methods, materials, and energy efficiency topics relevant to Canadian residential construction.
What This Site Covers
RiverHearth focuses on the practical side of home insulation and energy efficiency for Canadian homeowners. The articles here address insulation materials, installation approaches, air sealing, window performance, and the building science behind reducing heating costs in cold climates.
The content is organized around common situations homeowners encounter: choosing between insulation materials, understanding what the building code requires for attics in different provinces, and knowing which air sealing work can realistically be done without professional help.
Coverage and Scope
The site covers all Canadian provinces and territories, with attention to the fact that climate conditions and building code requirements vary significantly across the country. What applies in Vancouver is different from what applies in Winnipeg or Whitehorse. Where possible, articles note regional differences and point to authoritative sources such as provincial building codes and Natural Resources Canada publications.
Coverage areas include:
- Insulation materials — fiberglass, mineral wool, cellulose, spray foam, and rigid foam
- Attic, wall, and basement insulation methods
- Window and door air sealing
- Canadian climate zones and R-value requirements
- Vapour management in Canadian wall and roof assemblies
- Energy assessment programs and incentive information
Content Standards
Articles on this site are written based on publicly available technical information from sources including Natural Resources Canada, the National Building Code of Canada, provincial building codes, and industry resources from organizations such as the Canadian Home Builders' Association. The site does not generate or publish proprietary research.
Where specific numbers — R-values, depths, minimum requirements — are cited, the source is noted or linked. Building codes and incentive programs change over time; the date shown on each article reflects the last editorial review. Readers undertaking specific renovation projects should verify requirements with the applicable current code or a licensed building professional.
The information on this site is for educational reference only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, and it does not constitute guidance specific to any individual home or project. Building practices that are appropriate in one climate, wall assembly, or code jurisdiction may not be appropriate in another.
Contact
Questions, topic suggestions, or corrections can be submitted using the form below or sent by email.