5 Things That Factor Into Your Home’s Energy Efficiency
Saving on energy is a high priority for homeowners, whether planning an extensive remodel or building from the ground up – or repairing some storm damage. No matter the project, you should always hire professionals with expertise and solid work history experience.
Many interior and exterior details can affect the energy efficiency of your home, including but not limited to:
- Type of home and square footage
- Exterior materials
- Climate conditions
At Powers Premier Contracting, we specialize in exterior installation and restoration services for both residential and commercial properties. From storm damage repair to exterior updating and remodeling, our team of professional contractors works hard to help our customers establish a durable and attractive home.
Let’s take a look at five major things that factor into your home’s energy efficiency.
1. Insulation
The insulation of your home is one of the top essentials which can really factor in energy efficiency. Is your insulation old or damaged?
There are many benefits that come with replacing the insulation in your home or building besides saving on your heating and cooling costs; It also helps to insulate against sound and helps to keep pests out of your attic. One of the best insulation products is spray foam.
Spray foam insulation is a high-performance alternative to traditional insulation and helps to reduce mold and allergens in your home.
2. Air Sealing
Reducing the amount of air that leaks in and out of your home is a cost-effective way to cut heating and cooling costs and create a healthier indoor environment. Caulking and weatherstripping are two simple and effective air-sealing techniques that offer a return on investment.
Caulk is generally used for cracks and openings of stationery items, such as around door and window frames. Weatherstripping can also be used to seal movable components such as doors and windows.
3. Windows
Speaking of air leaks, damaged or old windows will decrease your home or building’s energy efficiency, resulting in higher energy bills. Replacing your windows can provide your home a more updated look, but most importantly, they will save more energy, preventing air leaks from occurring.
4. Lighting
According to energy.gov, lighting accounts for around 15% of an average home's electricity use, and the average household saves about $225 in energy costs per year by using LED lighting with an Energy Star rating.
Replacing all your bulbs to energy-efficient lighting is an easy and quick way to cut your energy bills.
5. Ventilation
Ventilation is very important in an energy-efficient home. The type of ventilation varies from home to home. Ventilation also helps control moisture, thus reducing the chances of mold growth and structural damage.
There are three basic ventilation options: natural ventilation, spot ventilation, and whole-house ventilation, which provides controlled, uniform ventilation throughout a house.
It’s important to note that ventilation is not an effective cooling strategy in hot, humid climates where temperatures remain fairly constant between day and night. Nevertheless, natural ventilation of your attic will help to reduce your use of air conditioning, and attic fans may also help keep cooling costs down.
Start With Powers Premier Contracting
Need professional help replacing your windows, doors, siding, and installing new insulation to your home or business? Powers Premier is your local Minnesota source for all your exterior needs, including roofing, windows, gutter and siding repair services.
Call us today for your free inspection and quote – which includes free insurance assistance!