Choosing the proper building materials during Toronto’s colder months is pivotal to protecting the building from fluctuating temperatures that can cause costly damage and interfere with interior comfort.
In this blog, our building material store experts will share the 12 top building materials designed to withstand Toronto’s cold climate.
1. Steel
The ideal framing material to use in colder climates is steel because it can withstand the cold climates that exacerbate water infiltration-related issues. It is not only resistant to corrosion and rust, but also withstands all types of weather exposure during winter builds.
It won’t warp, bend, or twist when exposed to cold temperatures especially when using cold-formed steel. As a result, your projects are completed on schedule with less risk of weather-related delays.
2. Fiberglass insulation
Fiberglass insulation is composed of glass fibers that are fireproof and work as excellent thermal insulators. It has an R-value of about 2.2 to 2.7 per inch, making it a popular choice in home construction.
Typically, it is installed in “batting” or blanket form. It can conserve up to 12 times the energy that is lost in energy production, and reduce energy costs up to 40%.
3. Rockwool insulation
Rockwool insulation is fire-resistant as it is made of basalt rock and slag fibers. It is mould and mildew-resistant, furthermore it is a sustainable insulation made up of an average of 75% recycled materials.
With an R-value between 3.0 to 3.3 per inch, rockwool has vapour-permeable qualities that prevent mould and mildew growth, while also maintaining its performance for the life of the building.
4. Brick
Brick is a common facade used on houses throughout the GTA, from original old Victorian and row houses to the new homes of today. It absorbs heat during the day and slowly releases it at night, providing an insulating effect that keeps homes warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
It is also weather-resistant and will withstand high winds, unlike siding materials that can be lifted and torn away from the building.
5. Concrete
Concrete is resistant to just about anything the elements can throw at it, from cold and heat to water and fire. It is also an effective insulator, helping to keep buildings warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
It can last for 30 years, protecting the structure winter after winter and easily withstanding the thaw and freeze effect that can impact a building’s foundation and structural walls.
6. Mould-resistant drywall
Cold weather increases the risk of leaks from roofs, foundations, and excess precipitation or snowmelt. It can also increase moisture in your home, depending on what kind of heating system you use.
As a result, using mould-resistant drywall in moisture-prone areas such as the basement can reduce the risk of mould related to water damage. Mould-resistant drywall is available in two options:
- Paper facing and backing: The first uses a wax-coated, thicker paper facing and backing to prevent moisture and air from infiltrating the paper.
- Non-organic facing and backing: The second replaces the traditional paper facing and backing with a non-organic material such as fiberglass mesh to eliminate a potential food source for mould.
7. DensGlass® sheathing
DensGlass sheathing is the ideal substrate to use in cold-weather areas like Toronto when installing brick, stone, stucco, siding, and Exterior Insulation and Finishing Systems (EIFS). It helps prevent weather-related issues including delamination, deterioration, sagging, and warping. The trademarked finish offers many benefits including the following:
- Water-resistant barrier coatings eliminate the need for sealer/primer.
- Provides additional strength for the bond between panel and surfacing insulation products.
- Improves surface water resistance.
- When properly installed in an architecturally specified EIFS application, it comes with a 12-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects.
It also has many applications, including the installation of the following cladding materials:
- Brick/stone veneer cavity walls
- Vinyl siding
- Metal siding
- Wood siding
- Fiber cement siding
- Stucco
8. GlassRoc sheathing
Another exceptional weather-proof sheathing option, GlasRoc, a non-combustible gypsum-based sheathing, is ideal for exterior walls and soffits. This GREENGUARD Gold-certified sheathing is not only fire-resistant but also resistant to mould and moisture.
Its gypsum core is protected with fiberglass mat facers designed for long-lasting protection against the elements. It has a special layer to prevent moisture damage including mould growth, and can be used with exterior finishes including stucco, brick, and siding.
The barrier protects framing and insulation to improve structural integrity as well as energy efficiency. It has a 12-month limited warranty against exposure and a 5-year limited product performance warranty.
9. Tomahawk Gun Foam
Tomahawk Gun Foam is a high-performance polyurethane foam that offers superior insulation when installing doors and windows. It seals gaps to prevent air leaks for added home comfort and energy efficiency throughout the cold winter months.
10. Attic rafter vents
Attic rafter vents are used to create a space between attic rafters to provide a constant flow of fresh air from soffit vents to the ridge. They help prevent airway blockages at the soffit, creating an effective ventilation system to improve home comfort, while also preventing costly roof damage.
Made of extruded polystyrene foam, attic rafter vents stay in place and will resist rot and deterioration.
11. House wrap
House wrap such as Tyvek® is a building envelope material that plays a key role in building protection. It is made of high-density spunbond polyethylene fibers that are water-resistant yet breathable.
As a result, they provide the perfect layer of protection against wind and moisture. House wrap is critical in cold-weather areas like Toronto and provide the following benefits:
- Preventing water infiltration to avoid costly water damage.
- Reducing air leaks to optimize insulation performance for improved energy efficiency.
- Preventing high winds from penetrating exterior walls.
- Protection against mould and water damage on materials such as exposed roofing and wall structures during the construction process.
12. Tuck tape
Tuck tape is an essential building material used when installing insulation and sheathing materials. It prevents air infiltration, while providing additional water and moisture resistance. Made of polyethylene, it seals the joints for a secure fit using a permanent, solvency-based acrylic adhesive.
Contact The Building Supply Experts
Proper use of these weather-resistant materials for your Toronto building projects will improve insulation, energy efficiency, and moisture-related issues today and well into the future.
You can find these winter-resistant building materials at building material stores, including Yvon Building Supply. We deliver high-quality materials to your construction site and are here to answer your questions. Contact us here to speak to our team of experts.
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