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Home Insulation & Caulking Upgrades

Seal & Insulate for Savings

03 April 2020
A drafty house and high utility bills are signs that your home could benefit from some insulation upgrades and caulking improvements. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for more than half of the average home’s utility costs.
Tighten up and save
Proper insulation creates a more comfortable home by not allowing air to seep in or out, and well-insulated houses stay warm during winter and cool during summer. Before making any improvements, here are some things to consider:
1. Existing Conditions
Determine the effectiveness of existing insulation and where insulation is missing. Professional home energy auditors can pinpoint problem spots where energy is being lost. To find a licensed energy auditor nearby, check out ENERGYSTAR or RESNET.
2. Insulation Types
Learn as much as you can about the different types of insulation, including fiberglass, cellulose, rigid foam board, and spray foam.
3. Performance Measures
Dig into the metrics. Understand R-value, which measures how well an insulated barrier resists the conductive flow of heat, and what R-value is most appropriate for your location and climate.
Eliminate drafts in each room
Sealing and weatherstripping projects are perfect complements to insulation upgrades. Some of the following projects can eliminate drafts:
• Doors
Minimize door drafts with weatherstripping
• Windows
Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal window leaks
• Drapes
Depending on the climate and season, open or closed drapes along sunny sides of your house, will either block or welcome the sun’s heat
• Ducts
Repair visible and accessible ducts with duct sealant
Other trouble spots can include mail chutes, electrical & gas line service entrances, cable TV & phone lines, outdoor water faucets, spaces where dryer vents pass through walls, bricks, siding, stucco, and foundation, air conditioners, and vents and fans.
Calculate insulation savings
Project costs vary depending on climate, the scope of work, and whether you hire a professional. Also, look out for Federal, state, and local tax credits to offset project costs. Find incentives and rebates at the National Database for State Incentives on Renewables and Efficiency.

Portia Green, REALTOR®

Portia’s clients all have a similar story. Most likely, you met her huddled around a tablet at the dinner table yet she feels like a friend. Her personable nature and easy going approach attract Sellers and Buyers alike, in what can be a stressful and emotionally charged event. A talented REALTOR® with 15 years experience, Portia is just as excited about real estate today as she was with her first transaction. She remains ever-committed to helping her clients find their place in the world and helping busy people navigate this crazy real estate market like a pro.

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