Windows and doors
Upgraded replacement windows and doors in your home can help reduce long term energy expenses. Installing high performance windows and doors with insulated glass and low E coating film will reduce heat gain in the summer and illuminate cold spots in the winter.
Avoid cranking your furnace up and using electricity to get a comfortable home setting without cold areas. Having a low U rating on your windows will also help with the air conditioning working overtime in the summer.
The efficient attic solution
Proper ventilation is essential to controlling moisture and heat build-up in the attic space. Attics can be extremely under ventilated causing moisture related problems an excessive heat buildup which accelerates the shortening life of your shingles. Installing adequate soffit ventilation and ridge venting will help decrease the chances of roof damage.
Having a professional contractor measure your attic and ensuring that there is adequate ventilation can save a homeowner thousands of dollars in the life of their home.
The US Department of Energy recommends that total R values (resistance to heat flow) should be as follows:
Attics should be between R-38 to R-60. A minimum of 13 inches of blow in cellulose.
Wall spaces should have a minimum or R-15 to R-19.
One of the long term savings tips to make your home more comfortable year-round is to have adequate insulation in your walls and attic space, also making sure that all ceiling penetrations be sealed and properly covered to prevent air infiltration. This could help up to 30% of a home’s heat loss.
Wall insulation ideas
Siding manufacturers offer vinyl siding with an insulated backer. This continuous layer of insulation added to your exterior walls will make the inside of your home more comfortable and have less cold spots. This insulated panel is impact resistant and has an R value of up to 2.8.
Optional wall cavity insulation can be added when your siding is replaced on your home. Foam in place insulation is a great alternativ3 for existing insulated filled cavities. This polyurethane foam is filled with gases that help the foam expand to fill the spaces around it. Open cell foam insulation is around R3.7 – 4.0 per 1” thickness, and can be applicated even with exterior siding on.