Remodeling For Energy Efficiency
Posted on: 19 January 2023
Taking on a remodeling project is one of the best investments for your home, especially if you are planning to sell. Instead of focusing purely on functionality and aesthetics, consider changes that can improve the efficiency of your home, especially if your home is older.
Insulation Update
Refreshing the insulation throughout the home, such as in the basement, crawlspace, attic, and walls is the faster way to improve efficiency. You may want to change the type of insulation, even if it costs more to install. Many homes have classic fiberglass insulation which deteriorates over time and can trap moisture. Swapping the fiberglass insulation with expanding foam is a better option and it might be easier to install. Insulation surrounding the pipes and ducts in your home can help, as well. For example, insulation surrounding pipes carrying water throughout your home can reduce the need to turn the water heater up. Insulation around the ductwork in your home can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system.
New Roof
Investing in a new roof gives you the opportunity to tackle any flaws within the original roof and make changes that are better for your specific home and climate. Metal roofs may be more of an investment, but they might be worth the costs since they are generally more energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. Metal roofs may be especially important in climates with harsher weather conditions and in locations where there is more of a fire risk. The reflective nature of metal roofs also prevents the absorption of heat, which is better for your HVAC system. Asphalt roofs also have energy-efficient properties. Traditionally, asphalt was better for colder climates because the asphalt absorbed heat. Newer types of asphalt are made to be reflective of heat and have similar properties to metal roofs.
Windows
Some windows are made with a special coating to reduce heat transfer from the outdoors into your home. Other energy-efficient windows are made with several layers of glass and the space between each layer is filled with a special gas to reduce heat transfer. Choosing windows that are created to reduce heat transfer allows you to receive the benefits of natural light, without unnecessarily warming your home. These features are particularly important with more decorative windows that are designed for maximum daylight, such as bay windows and skylights. Making strategic decisions about the specific type of window can influence efficiency. Windows that operate on a system where either the top or bottom is hinged instead of a sliding window means fewer air leaks and more efficiency.
An energy audit of your home can help you determine which remodeling projects would have the most effect on efficiency. In addition to savings on utility bills, a more efficient home will be more comfortable and increase your home's value.
Contact a contractor to learn more about house remodeling.
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