Real Estate

Tips for Saving a Bundle on Energy Use at Home – Insulation and Windows

Insulation

The primary areas in your home that should be well insulated are the walls, attic and floors. Here’s what you’ll need to know to get the job done:

* Does your home require added insulation material? Generally, if your home has less than three or four inches of insulation in the attic, it would be a good idea add extra insulating material to achieve the proper levels. If you discover that there is no insulation in the walls and/or floors, adding insulation is definitely recommended.

* First, you will have to decide whether you want to tackle the insulation project yourself or to use a contractor instead. Keep in mind that some insulation work is quite a bit harder than other home improvement projects.

* If you would rather have a contractor handle the job, make sure you get several bids. Only hire a bonded and properly licensed professional.

* If you tackle the job as a DIY project, be sure to follow installation instructions carefully and adhere to pertinent safety precautions.

* When buying insulating material, check the R-value. It specifies the effectiveness of insulation. The larger the R-value the higher efficiency of the insulation.

* Determine the type of insulation you should use. There are a wide variety of insulating materials available including sprayed foam, rigid insulation, fiberglass, mineral wool/rock wool, and cellulose. The choice of material will largely depend on the part of the home you are insulating. A knowledgeable salesperson should be able to help decide upon the best insulation R-value and type of insulation for your project.

Windows

The thermal efficiency of windows is rated by the U-value. This numeric value specifies the window’s insulating ability. The lower the U-value, the more effective the window is at stopping the transmission of heat. The U-value of a window is determined by such factors as the number of glass layers, the amount of of air space between the panes or layers and the materials used in the window frame. A few tips include:

* Check windows for broken glass, damaged frames and seals, decayed wood, loose putty, defective sashes, and drafts.

* For a quick but temporary fix before winter hits, you can purchase storm-window kits made of plastic sheeting that you apply to the inside of your windows. Insulating kits can normally be purchased at most home improvement stores for $5 to $10 for each window. They usually last from one to three years.

* You can reduce the loss of heat through windows by mounting insulating curtains or draperies on the window’s interior. This will help keep heat in during the winter and keep cool air in during the dog days of summer.

* In the winter retract the curtains during hours of sunlight to allow passive solar heating, and, during the summer keep the curtains closed or attach an ultraviolet film to help keep the heat out.

* During the summer, when possible, open several windows during nighttime and in the early hours of the morning when there is a breeze. Opening a window on opposite sides of your home will help with the circulation of air and provide enhanced cooling.

Caulking & Weather-stripping

In addition to inadequate insulation, air leaks are amongst the leading causes of energy waste in homes.

* Inspect your house for hidden air leaks by using a moist hand or candle flame to identify air leaks. Shut all doors, windows and fireplace flues and turn off all ventilating fans to make the air movement easier to locate.

* Caulking is most useful on gaps that are no more than 1/4″ wide. When available, use caulks that will stay pliable over a long number of years. If it is not completely hidden, choose a colored caulk or one that will accept paint..

* When there are large gaps and missing pieces shielded from light and moisture, use expanding foam sealers to plug them. However, please only use materials identified as safe for the environment.

* Backer rod or crack filler, is a elastic foam material available in lengthy coils, with a number of different available diameters. It can be used to seal larger gaps. It also can provide backing in deep gaps that are to be finished with regular caulking.

* Place insulating material behind electrical outlets and switches – potential leaks that are often overlooked.

Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for over thirty years covering a wide range of topics. He is also a licensed real estate agent in the Commonwealth of Virginia specializing in real estate in the Tri-Cities area of Virginia and, in particular, Petersburg, Virginia, area houses for sale.

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