Insulation
The essential areas in your home to insulate are the walls, floors and attic. Here are a few tips to help you get your insulation project moving in the right direction:
* Does your home need extra insulation material? Generally, if you have less than three inches of insulation in the attic, it would be a good idea add additional insulating material to achieve the appropriate levels. If you discover that there is no insulation in the floors or walls, insulation is highly recommended.
* You will need to decide whether you want to do the insulation project yourself or to turn over the job to a professional instead. Keep in mind that some insulation jobs are considerably harder than other DIY projects.
* If you would prefer to have a contractor handle the job, be sure to get several bids. Only employ a bonded and properly certified contractor.
* If you take on the job yourself, follow installation instructions carefully and follow proper safety precautions.
* When buying insulation, check the R-value. It shows the effectiveness of insulation. The larger the R-value the more effective the insulation.
* Decide what type of insulating material you should use. There are a wide variety of insulation products on the market including fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool/rock wool, rigid insulation and sprayed foam. The choice of material will for the most part depend on the part of the house you are insulating. You can ask a knowledgeable salesperson to help determine the best insulation R-value and type of insulation for your project.
Windows
Rating windows insulation value is measured by the U-value. This number shows the window's ability to insulate. The lower the number, the better the window is at minimizing the transmission of heat. The U-value of a window is determined by such factors as the number of glass layers, the amount of of air space between the panes or layers and the materials used in the window frame. A few tips include:
* Inspect windows for cracks, broken frames and seals, decayed wood, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, and air leakage.
* For a quick but short-term fix before winter arrives, you can pick up storm-window kits constructed of plastic sheeting that you apply to the inside of your windows. Insulating kits can normally be purchased at most building supply stores for $5 to $10 for each window. They normally last from two to four years.
* You can reduce heat transfer through windows by mounting insulated curtains or drapes on the inside of the window. This will help keep heat in during the winter and reduce radiant heat during the summer.
* In the winter retract the curtains when the sun is shining to allow passive solar heating, and, during the summer block the sun with your curtains or attach an ultraviolet film to reduce the sun's effect.
* During the warmer months, when possible, open a few windows in the evenings and early in the morning when there is a cool breeze. Opening a window on each side of your home will improve air circulation and provide enhanced cooling.
Caulking & Weather-stripping
In addition to inadequate insulation, air leaks are among the major causes of energy waste in homes.
* Check your house for concealed air leaks by using a moist hand or candle flame to detect air movement. Secure all doors, windows and fireplace flues and turn off all ventilating fans to simplify the location of any air leaks.
* Caulk is best used on areas that are no more than 1/4" wide. If possible, use caulks that will remain pliable over a long number of years. If it is visible, select a tinted caulk or one that can be painted.
* If there are large cracks and voids shielded from sunlight and moisture, apply expanding foam sealers to plug them. However, please buy only materials listed as safe for the environment.
* Crack filler or backer rod, is a pliable foam product available in long coils, with a variety of available diameters. It can be useful in sealing larger cracks. It also can serve as a filler material in deep spaces that are to be finished with standard caulking.
* Place insulation behind electrical outlets and switches - areas that are often unnoticed. - 29958
The essential areas in your home to insulate are the walls, floors and attic. Here are a few tips to help you get your insulation project moving in the right direction:
* Does your home need extra insulation material? Generally, if you have less than three inches of insulation in the attic, it would be a good idea add additional insulating material to achieve the appropriate levels. If you discover that there is no insulation in the floors or walls, insulation is highly recommended.
* You will need to decide whether you want to do the insulation project yourself or to turn over the job to a professional instead. Keep in mind that some insulation jobs are considerably harder than other DIY projects.
* If you would prefer to have a contractor handle the job, be sure to get several bids. Only employ a bonded and properly certified contractor.
* If you take on the job yourself, follow installation instructions carefully and follow proper safety precautions.
* When buying insulation, check the R-value. It shows the effectiveness of insulation. The larger the R-value the more effective the insulation.
* Decide what type of insulating material you should use. There are a wide variety of insulation products on the market including fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool/rock wool, rigid insulation and sprayed foam. The choice of material will for the most part depend on the part of the house you are insulating. You can ask a knowledgeable salesperson to help determine the best insulation R-value and type of insulation for your project.
Windows
Rating windows insulation value is measured by the U-value. This number shows the window's ability to insulate. The lower the number, the better the window is at minimizing the transmission of heat. The U-value of a window is determined by such factors as the number of glass layers, the amount of of air space between the panes or layers and the materials used in the window frame. A few tips include:
* Inspect windows for cracks, broken frames and seals, decayed wood, missing putty, poorly fitting sashes, and air leakage.
* For a quick but short-term fix before winter arrives, you can pick up storm-window kits constructed of plastic sheeting that you apply to the inside of your windows. Insulating kits can normally be purchased at most building supply stores for $5 to $10 for each window. They normally last from two to four years.
* You can reduce heat transfer through windows by mounting insulated curtains or drapes on the inside of the window. This will help keep heat in during the winter and reduce radiant heat during the summer.
* In the winter retract the curtains when the sun is shining to allow passive solar heating, and, during the summer block the sun with your curtains or attach an ultraviolet film to reduce the sun's effect.
* During the warmer months, when possible, open a few windows in the evenings and early in the morning when there is a cool breeze. Opening a window on each side of your home will improve air circulation and provide enhanced cooling.
Caulking & Weather-stripping
In addition to inadequate insulation, air leaks are among the major causes of energy waste in homes.
* Check your house for concealed air leaks by using a moist hand or candle flame to detect air movement. Secure all doors, windows and fireplace flues and turn off all ventilating fans to simplify the location of any air leaks.
* Caulk is best used on areas that are no more than 1/4" wide. If possible, use caulks that will remain pliable over a long number of years. If it is visible, select a tinted caulk or one that can be painted.
* If there are large cracks and voids shielded from sunlight and moisture, apply expanding foam sealers to plug them. However, please buy only materials listed as safe for the environment.
* Crack filler or backer rod, is a pliable foam product available in long coils, with a variety of available diameters. It can be useful in sealing larger cracks. It also can serve as a filler material in deep spaces that are to be finished with standard caulking.
* Place insulation behind electrical outlets and switches - areas that are often unnoticed. - 29958
About the Author:
Jim Navary has been a freelance writer and researcher for more thirty years covering a broad range of topics. He is also a licensed real estate agent in the Commonwealth of Virginia specializing in real estate in the Tri-Cities area of Virginia and, in particular, Fort Lee, Virginia, area homes for sale.
