subject: Insulation Helps Save Energy And Money [print this page] Insulation has become the most common home improvement measure that makes the house energy efficient and comfortable. It creates an effective barrier that resists flow of heat, thereby keeping the house warm in winters and cool in summers. The favorable temperature within the house reduces dependence on various heating and cooling systems for regulating the temperature. Consequently, it results in lowering the energy bills. Another advantage of insulation is that it reduces noise by acting as a sound barrier. However to maximize the benefits, it is important to ensure proper installation.
Along with proper installation, it is also important to ensure appropriate amount of insulation. Depending upon the climatic zones, your house is located in, insulation requirements will vary. To know about the appropriate amount of insulation required, you can get thermal imaging of your house done as per the local building codes.
Attic insulation is most effective as it alone can reduce your energy costs significantly. The maximum heat loss occurs from the attic and it is vital to opt for attic insulation to minimize the loss. However adequate measures need to be taken to ensure that the insulation is done properly. Depending upon the insulation required, you can choose amongst its different types available in the market. Popular options are the loose fill and batt insulation, which are effective as well as easy to install.
Proper attic insulation not only saves energy but also saves money by reducing power bills. You can either do it yourself or take help of professionals who are proficient at their job. During attic insulation, one of the common mistakes which most of the homeowners do is omitting the vapor barrier. You must avoid this as it results in moisture accumulation between the insulating layer and the attic's roof, which may lead to decay.
Apart from attic, some of the other areas of your house where insulation needs to be installed are outside walls, basement, ceilings or floors near unheated spaces. The gaps and vents around the windows, doors and base of weathervane provide an easy route for heat to escape. Hence, it is important to close these gaps as well as any other gaps that may be present in other parts of the house. Proper Insulation will lower energy loss and make your home energy efficient as well as comfortable to live in. Moreover, it will also save you substantial amount of money, which can be used for other home improvement measures like purchasing energy efficient appliances.
