One of the most overlooked places on a home is its insulation. It’s no surprise, if people can’t see it, they simply don’t pay attention to it. But your insulation is one of the most important parts of your home. As winter approaches, and temperatures drop, properly insulating your home will not only make it a more comfortable place to be, it will help you save money on your utility bills.
This winter, make sure your home is properly insulated in these places.
Attics
Whether you use your attic for storage, extra space, or not at all, proper insulation is key to the health of your home. A properly insulated attic not only helps to regulate the temperature in your home, it also is key in preventing ice dams during the winter months. Whether we’re in the peak of summer or the peak of winter, whenever temperatures are at an extreme, having a properly insulated attic is an absolute necessity.
If you do not use the space, blow-in insulation can be used to insulate your attic. If you use the space for anything, you can use fiberglass or spray foam insulation.
Crawl Spaces
After looking up at your attic space, it’s time to look down underneath your home at your crawl space (if you have one). Crawl spaces are one of the top places where conditioned air can escape your home. If they are not insulated properly, it results in higher energy bills and a drafty home.
The most important part about (wall) crawl space insulation is using an insulation that is non water sensitive and prevents the interior of your home from contacting the cold basement surfaces. It’s also essential to make sure the area is properly waterproofed and sealed, which will prevent leaks and other damage from occurring.
Doors and Windows
Older doors and windows are notorious for energy loss during peak season. When your doors and windows age, so does the sealing around them. The glass in older windows also has a lower R-value rating than today’s more energy efficient windows. If you have older windows on your home, it’s best to have them replaced before the winter begins. Window replacement can save you money and make your home a more comfortable place to live.
If you cannot afford to replace a door or window, you can purchase insulating kits that can help, but they are far less effective than upgrading to a door or window that is brand new.
