ONTARIO BUILDING CODE 2017

Solutions for Basement Walls & Slab Insulation Requirements

David Kelly – Sr. Account Manager – Dow Building Solutions

BASEMENT WALLSReference Table 3.1.1.2.A (IP) ZONE 1 – Compliance Packages

for Space Heating Equipment with AFUE > 92%

• 4 Options within the 5 Compliance Packages (but I only see 3!)• See Note # (6)

• Biggest Change: ci = Continuous Insulation

Continuous Insulation:An uninterrupted layer of insulation that spans over substrate without thermal bridging, other than fasteners and services. A continuous layer of insulationhelps reduce the potential for condensation within the wall where mold and mildew can accumulate undetected.

A1, A3, A4, & A6=R20ciFoundation Blanket

Easy & quick to install.Economical.No drywall required.Finishing basement later can encroach on usable space.

A1, A3, A4, & A6=R20ciSemi-Rigid Mineral Fiber Insulation

Moisture resistant.Vapour barrier required.No drywall required.Finishing basement later can encroach on usable space.

A1, A3, A4, & A6=R20ciExterior Foundation Insulation

• Adhesive• Minimal mechanical fasteners.• Increased interior space.• Take advantage of concrete

thermal mass.

Issues:• Thickness.• Top of foundation, tie-in with siding

or brick ledge.• Finishing area exposed above grade.

Interior Basement Insulation – Combination OptionsA2=R12+R10ci (also an alternative to R20ci) orA5=R12 +R5ci

Continuous Insulation. Reduced Thermal

Bridging. Reduced condensation

potential & vapourdrive.

Great option for finished basements.

Vapour barrier required. Must be covered with

minimum ½” drywall.

Could also place rigid insulation on foundation exterior.

THERMAL PROTECTION

ROXUL COMFORTBATT 5.5” or a greater thickness is approved as a THERMAL BARRIER for foam plastics.

COMFORTBOARD 80 is approved as a THERMAL BARRIER for foam plastics.

http://www.qai.org/Listing_Pages/ROXUL_Design_Listings/B1067-1e.pdf

•CAN/ULC-S124 Evaluation of Protective Coverings for Foamed Plastics.

R15ci – Note (6) Alternative to R12+R10ci

Interior:• Adhesive• No vapour barrier required.• Must be protected by minimum

½” drywall.

Exterior:• Adhesive• Minimal mechanical fasteners.• Increased interior space.Issues:• Thickness• Top of foundation, tie-in with siding

or brick ledge.• Finishing area exposed above grade.

INSULATING CONCRETE SLABS

In floor heating systems require insulation.Slab-on-grade requires

insulation.

INSULATING CONCRETE SLABS: BASEMENT WALK-OUT

Consider your options.

Discuss your choice with local Building Code Officials.

Consult with Manufacturer Reps.

Thank You!