2026 Winner For Insulation And Housing Innovator Canada
Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Quik-Therm continues to lead the industry with building science-driven insulation technologies designed specifically for the challenges of the Canadian climate. In February 2026, Quik-Therm was recognized at the First Nation Housing Community (FNHC) Awards in Thunder Bay for its role in delivering high-performance housing solutions in Northern communities.
Award-Winning Project: Shoal Lake 39 Housing Initiative
This recognition was driven by the successful implementation of the 8” Quik-Therm Matrix System on housing projects in Shoal Lake 39, completed in collaboration with Cornerstone Timberframes and WAASA Contracting.
The project achieved:
- Ultra-high energy efficiency, with buildings requiring minimal energy use
- A continuous exterior insulation system applied to both walls and roof assemblies
- Affordability without compromising performance or design
- Beautiful interior finishes, highlighted by the craftsmanship of Cornerstone Timberframes
Why the Matrix System Delivered Exceptional Results
The success of the Shoal Lake 39 project is rooted in Quik-Therm’s patented Matrix design, which features:
- Thermally broken assembly that eliminates thermal bridging
- Embedded furring strips, simplifying installation and reducing labour costs
- A continuous insulation layer that maintains a full effective R-value
This design ensures the system performs at or near its true nominal R-value, unlike traditional systems that suffer major losses due to thermal bridging.
How The Matrix System Outperforms Traditional Insulation
| Insulation Type | Thermal Bridging Risk | Installation Speed | Effective R-value Performance |
| Quik-Therm Matrix | Virtually 0% | Fastest | 100% (Nominal + Air Films |
| Steel Z-Girts | 50% – 84% Loss | Moderate | Significant Degradation |
| Clip & Rail | ~25% Loss | Slowest | Moderate Performance |
Built For Northern Performance
Quik-Therm’s systems are engineered specifically for Northern climates, where thick wall assemblies are essential. The Matrix System simplifies construction while reducing both material and labour costs, making it an ideal solution for remote and First Nation communities.
Advanced Moisture Management
In addition to thermal performance, Quik-Therm systems provide superior moisture control through:
- Perforated facers that allow assemblies to dry outward
- Integrated drainage cavities to manage bulk water
- Solar Dry and Air Dry Connect technologies, preventing mould and long-term material degradation
Unlike conventional foam panels that risk creating a “double vapour barrier,” Quik-Therm enables a balanced, durable building envelope.
