Guidelines for Saving a Bundle on Energy Use at Home - Insulation and Windows

Read More About Home Improvement

Insulation

The primary areas in your home to insulate are the floors, walls and attic. To accomplish the project efficiently, here are a few things you should know:

• Does your home require more insulation material? As a rule of thumb, if there is less than three inches of insulation in the attic, you would be well advised to add more insulation to achieve the appropriate levels. If you discover that there is no insulation in the floors or walls, adding insulation is definitely recommended.

• You will need to decide whether you want to do the insulation work yourself or to turn over the job to a professional instead. Don't forget that some insulation work is quite a bit harder than other DIY projects.

• If you would prefer to have a contractor handle the job, make sure you get several bids. Only use a bonded and properly certified contractor.

• If you tackle the job yourself, be sure to follow installation instructions carefully and don't forget to follow proper safety precautions.

• When buying insulating material, note the R-value. This specifies the efficiency of insulation. The higher the R-value the better the insulation.

• Choose the type of insulation you require. There are numerous insulation products on the market including sprayed foam, rigid insulation, fiberglass, mineral wool/rock wool, and cellulose. The type of material will mainly depend on the part of the house you are insulating. You can ask a knowledgeable salesperson to help decide upon the best insulation R-value and type of insulation for your project.

Windows

Windows are rated by the U-value. This numeric value specifies the window's insulating ability. The lower the number, the better the window is at stopping the transmission of heat. The U-value of a window is based on the number of glass panes, the thickness of insulating space between the panes or layers and the type of window frame. A few tips include:

• Check windows for broken glass, damaged frames and seals, damaged wood, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, and drafts.

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

• You can reduce heat transfer through windows by installing insulated curtains or drapes on the inside of the window. This will help retain heat during the winter and keep heat out during heat waves.

• In the winter retract the curtains if the sun is out to allow natural heating, and, during the summer keep the windows covered or add an ultraviolet film to reduce the sun's effect.

• During the warmer months, when possible, open a few windows in the evenings and in the early hours of the morning when there is a cool breeze. Opening a window on opposing sides of your home will improve the circulation of air and offer better cooling.

Caulking & Weather-stripping

In addition to inadequate insulation, air leaks are amongst the major reasons for energy waste in homes.

• Examine your house for concealed air leaks by using a damp hand or candle flame to detect air movement. Close all doors, windows and fireplace flues and turn off all ventilating fans to make any air leakage easier to locate.

• Caulk is best used on gaps that are no more than 1/4" wide. If possible, use caulking that will remain pliable over a long period of years. If it is visible, pick a colored caulk or one that will accept paint..

• If there are significant cracks and voids shielded from sunlight and moisture, utilize expanding foam sealant to fill them. However, please only buy products listed as safe for the environment.

• Crack filler or backer rod, is a pliable foam product available in lengthy coils, with a number of different diameters available. It can be useful in sealing large gaps. It also can be used as filler material in deep gaps that are to be finished with ordinary caulk.

• Place insulation behind electric outlets and switches - areas that often go unnoticed.

Article Source: http://depositarticles.com/

Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for more thirty years covering a broad range of subjects. He is also a licensed real estate salesperson in the Commonwealth of Virginia specializing in real estate in the Tri-Cities area of Virginia and, in particular, Tri-Cities Area, Virginia, area properties for sale.

Please Rate this Article

Not yet Rated

Click the XML Icon Above to Receive Home Improvement Articles Via RSS!

Additional Articles From - Home | Home | Home Improvement

Our other websites
All about SEO
Beauty Tips Forum

	Print This Article
	Post Comment
	Add To Favorites
	Email to Friends
	Ezine Ready

Submit Articles
Member Login
Link Us
Submission Guidelines
Ezine Notifications
Article RSS Feeds
Sitemap

New Stuff
About Us
Developer
Good shopping portal
Link to Us
Contact Us
Privacy Policy
Terms of Service