subject: Insulation For Comfortable And Energy Efficient Home [print this page] Insulation is the most common home improvement measure to enhance homes energy efficiency. Houses lose energy due to improper insulation, since most of the heat flows through the walls, windows and lofts, consuming more power for heating or cooling. This not only wastes electricity but also increases power bills. However, with proper windows replacement and installation of insulation one can reduce the loss to minimal and save on electricity bill. In addition to saving on power bills, insulation also makes the house comfortable, keeping it warm during winters and cool during summer season. For maximizing the benefits of insulation, proper installation with effective insulating products is important. Moreover, for proper functioning, insulation requires weatherization.
Weatherization is the practice of modifying the interiors of the building to safeguard it against elements such as sunlight, wind and precipitation. Along with insulation, this also helps in reducing energy consumption and enhancing the energy efficiency of the house. It generally involves sealing the gaps, cracks and holes near windows or doors, as well as sealing air ducts, which account for over 20% heat loss. This also enhances insulation and minimizes heat loss.
Before installing insulation, you must get an insulation audit of your house done to ascertain the amount of insulation required, as per the local building code. You can choose from different types of insulation, such as spray-on, rigid fiber, radiant barrier and blown in insulation. These use a variety of insulation material, including fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool and foam, having different R-values. Along with attics and outside walls, insulation should also be installed in floors, ceilings, around water heaters, near foundation and sill as well as around ducts and pipes or other unconditioned areas. You can also opt for Windows Replacement, where you can replace your old aluminum and wood windows with new energy efficient windows, such as vinyl windows.
A well insulated house makes the house energy efficient and comfortable, as well as minimizes sound pollution. Along with utility savings, you can also get Tax Credit Windows replacement as well as for purchasing and installation of insulation to enhance energy efficiency of your home, which helps offset the overall costs of the project to make your house energy efficient. Hence, insulation proves to be a beneficial and wise home improvement measure.
