subject: Make home comfortable with proper home insulation [print this page] Make home comfortable with proper home insulation
Home insulation is one of the most extensively used home improvement measures. Insulation not only provides for effective heating or cooling of the house but also saves energy while doing so. There are many modes and materials available for insulation. These are used differently depending upon the spot in the house to be insulated as well as the degree of insulation required.
One of the most basic yet most extensively used insulation is duct insulation that helps in preventing the loss of conditioned air from various electrical devices. An insulating material is used to wrap the duct or the pipe. The thickness of the layer of duct insulation varies depending upon the purpose of the protected duct.
Another problem that could be experienced with ducting systems is that of the small cuts or holes in it. In this case, however duct insulation should not be the only line of defense and appropriate repairs should be undertaken.
Duct Insulation comprises of two distinct layers of insulating materials. The layer outside is shiny and is intended to reflect the incident sunlight. The inner insulating material however is porous and fibrous that prevents the air in the duct from escaping. Duct insulation is available in a number of options depending on the size and shape of the duct to be insulated. Once wrapped, duct insulation is taped with a pressure sensitive tape to avoid it from falling off.
Another basic home improvement measure is to install Replacement windows in the house. Vinyl replacement windows are one of the most popular options available in this category. These windows have a dual- pane system that maintains airtight vacuum in the intermediate space. This restricts the air flow thus avoiding any heat loss or gain from the house.
Replacement windows are available in a number of variants. There is a choice between casement, bay and bow, sliders with multiple sashes and double-hung replacement windows. The vinyl replacement windows also add to the aesthetics of the home with decorative glass, light divided grids as well as reliable locking systems and other such accessories.
To motivate the masses to employ these replacement windows, the US government has devised many a window rebates and incentives. These window rebates differ depending upon the region in which the house is situated. Moreover, care should be taken that window rebates are available only on those products that meet a certain set of requirements. Also, Window Rebates can be availed for making improvements in the primary residence only.
