Making your home more energy efficient should be one of the top priorities for every homeowner. Even if you live in the Mediterranean or in a subtropical region, you can make a substantial saving if you improve the insulation of your home. A well-insulated home is an eco-friendly one, as well.
Instead of spending electric energy on air-conditioning or mechanical fans, you should make a smart investment in insulation and save money long-term.
The weak spots
In order to make the process of improving energy efficiency smoother and less expensive, the first thing that needs to be done is to identify the weak spots. Finding out where you lose or gain too much heat is critical. Once you identify the spots where you lose energy the most, it will be easier to take further steps.
Windows and doors
First of all, check the windows and doors. They are very often the culprit behind major energy loses. If you have very old or wooden windows, there’s a high possibility that they are not very air-tight. Invest in high-quality pvc windows and you will surely improve the situation.
Attic and roof
Check your attic or the upper floor (depending on the type of the house) to spot all the potential leakages. In addition to that, you should inspect the roof itself, since it often happens that roof tiles move or simply crack in case of strong wind. That way rains easily pour down the roof and leak into the rooms. If you cannot discover roof leakages, but you keep noticing traces of water on the walls, you should call a roof professional to find out where the problem is.
Outside insulation
Perhaps the biggest factor in energy efficiency are your walls. Come winter time, they can accumulate a lot of humidity and moisture and even get structurally weak if not protected properly.
There are many options when it comes to outside insulation and the efficiency undoubtedly depends on the price you are able to afford.
The most approachable option when it comes to costs for outside insulation is the blanket insulation. Cover sheets that come as insulators here are made of fiberglass, plastic or natural fiber, too. However, if you can afford to invest a bit more, it is wise to get an insulation type that will ensure a high R-level of thermal resistance. A good option is to go with the spray foam, which comprises of a mixture of chemicals that make a great air sealant and insulation tool.
DIY insulation repairs
If you are skilled enough, you can do some minor repairs on your own. The easiest thing that an individual can do is weatherstripping, a relatively simple process by which you seal places where the cold air is coming into your home. These are most often the windows and doors. Before you start with the project, check whether you have the appropriate equipment. If you don’t have what you need, you can order the needed tools online.
By upgrading your insulation you will greatly improve the energy efficiency of your home and by doing that, you behave in an ecologically responsible way. With reduced heating and electricity bills you save energy and help the environment, while making your home a more comfortable place. So don’t hesitate too much and find the time to transform your home into a better place.
