Why DC-315 Matters: Thermal Barrier When You Don’t Drywall

Martha Laverde • September 12, 2025

Spray Foam Edmonton. Thermal Barrier. Safety, Code Compliance & Peace of Mind

When people in Edmonton look up “spray foam insulation near me”, often it’s because they want clean, efficient insulation. But there’s another piece many don’t consider: fire safety and code requirements, especially when you’re using spray polyurethane foam (SPF) and not covering it with drywall. That’s where DC-315 comes in.

What is DC-315?

DC-315 is an intumescent coating (water-based) applied over SPF, acting as an alternative thermal barrier.
It’s designed to meet building code fire safety standards like a 15-minute thermal barrier or ignition barrier in many jurisdictions.
Certified by testing bodies and meets requirements under IBC, IRC, NBCC, plus has evaluation reports (ICC-ESR, ULC, CCMC) in Canada.

Why You Might Need DC-315 If You Skip Drywall

Drywall is often used to create that barrier between foam and living spaces for fire resistance. But sometimes drywall isn’t used in places like metal shops, barns, travel units, attics, sheds, or when people want an exposed‐look or ease of finishing.

If SPF is left exposed, building codes often require a thermal barrier or ignition barrier to protect occupants. Without it, insulation may fail inspection or be unsafe. DC-315 provides that protection while allowing foam to remain exposed.

Key Features & Application Rules

DC-315 must be applied at correct wet film thickness (WFT) (for thermal barrier ~14-18 mils, etc.) to ensure it performs as expected.
Surface prep is crucial: foam should be clean, firm, dry, free of dust, oil, glossy or overly smooth surfaces. Sometimes flash-coating is needed.
Environmental conditions matter: proper temperature & humidity. Poor conditions can affect adhesion and performance.
It’s extensively tested and certified for safety. Using a non-approved coating or applying incorrectly risks failing fire code.

What This Means for Edmonton Home & Building Owners

If you plan an exposed spray foam project (garage interiors, barn/quonset interiors, feature walls, etc.) instead of drywall, you’ll likely need a code-approved thermal barrier. DC-315 is one of the most tested solutions.
Hiring a contractor that knows DC-315 ensures fewer surprises during permits or inspections.
Adds safety & value to your project; gives confidence to buyers or future occupants that the building was done to modern safety standards.

Conclusion

Spray foam offers tremendous benefits like energy efficiency, airtightness, comfort, but safety and code compliance matter just as much. When drywall isn’t going to be used, DC-315 gives you a tested, safe, and code-approved way to meet thermal/ignition barrier requirements in Edmonton and beyond.

If you’re considering spray foam insulation and are unsure whether drywall or DC-315 is needed, talk to us. Aires Spray Foam & Insulation specializes in Edmonton spray foam installs with code-compliant thermal barriers. Contact us for a free quote and get your project done safely and right.

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Attic insulation is only part of creating an efficient, healthy home. Just as critical is having the right amount of ventilation in your attic. Without proper venting, insulation cannot perform at its best, and the long-term health of your home can be at risk. Why Attic Ventilation Matters Attics are designed to breathe. Proper ventilation balances the air entering through soffit or eave vents with the air leaving through ridge or roof vents. This flow prevents trapped moisture and excessive heat buildup, both of which can cause costly problems. The Risks of Poor Ventilation Moisture Damage – Warm air from the home naturally rises into the attic. If it cannot escape, condensation forms, leading to mold, mildew, and potential wood rot. Reduced Insulation Performance – Moisture reduces the effectiveness of attic insulation, lowering R-value and increasing energy costs. Ice Dams – In winter, poor ventilation allows attic heat to melt roof snow unevenly, causing ice dams that damage shingles and gutters. Overheated Attics – In summer, trapped hot air drives up cooling costs and shortens the lifespan of roofing materials. How Ventilation and Insulation Work Together Spray foam and attic blow-in insulation are most effective when paired with a well-ventilated attic. Insulation keeps conditioned air inside the home, while venting ensures moisture and excess heat are released outside. The two systems work hand-in-hand to maintain comfort, efficiency, and durability. At Aires Spray Foam & Insulation , we assess not only insulation levels but also ventilation to ensure your attic performs the way it should. By addressing both, homeowners achieve better energy efficiency, improved indoor air quality, and long-lasting protection for their roof and attic. Adequate attic venting is not optional, it is essential. When combined with professional insulation services, proper ventilation ensures your home is comfortable, efficient, and protected year-round.