Construction

Lowering Energy Needs

Many older homes have come under scrutiny over the last few decades because they are not energy efficient, and lowering energy needs has become a good way to create a better household budget. Some homes will profit greatly with the addition of new insulation, but others simply need a little more added on what is already present. Contractors can be hired to do the work, but some projects are simple enough for almost any homeowner to tackle. It might seem like a huge expense when shopping for materials and workers, but insulation often pays for itself over the next few years.

Energy efficiency is important for those looking for ways to ease their budget, and keeping out the heat or cold is an excellent way to reach their goal. There are many different types of insulation, and many homes have several different types of insulation to keep temperatures within reasonable limits. For homes with attic space that needs insulation, loose fill that can be blown into the attic is often their first choice. It will fill the open areas between the joists, and it is light enough not to compromise the weight limit on the ceilings beneath it.

Walls need plenty of insulation in most areas, and there are several different types that can be used to keep the heat or cool in the home. A blanket is often used today during new construction, and it is designed to cover the entire house. This is a board type of insulation, and it is added just before the outside walls are added during building. It can be a cost saving measure, and those who want more can use rolls of batting between the joists to add an extra layer of energy efficiency.

Insulating any home will help raise its energy efficiency, and there are many more products on the market today than ever before. Choosing between them depends upon how much existing insulation there is now and how much is required to lower future energy needs.