Home Weatherization: An Investment That Pays For Itself

Whether you recently bought a house or planning an interior and exterior renovation, weatherizing your property is essential, as it not only helps reduce energy costs, but also goes a long way in improving interior comfort. It is a long-term investment that, much like your savings, slowly yields significant returns. In fact, certain energy efficiency improvements also entitle you for an array of federal and state tax benefits and rebates. A home energy audit helps you build a comprehensive weatherization strategy, incorporating various provisions, such as sealing, insulation, moisture control, and ventilation regulation. This posts highlights some of the weatherization methods that are not only effective, but also deliver long-term value.

1. Caulking

Caulking is one of the least expensive weatherization methods for sealing the joints throughout the building. The joints are sealed using a flexible material (typically latex caulk with added silicone) that seals any cracks and gaps of up to ¼ inch width. That said, before caulking air leaks, you need to identify air infiltration spots, for which you may need a home energy audit.

Key Spots for Caulking

• Around ceiling lights
• Around soil stack penetrations
• Around bathroom vents
• Around ceiling lights

2. Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is used to fill gaps that are too wide for caulk. The leakages around doors are fixed using long strips made from vinyl, felt, rubber or EPDM rubber, whereas for windows, the options include foam and gasket. In addition to improving the energy efficiency of a property, weatherstriping also helps in isolating outdoor noise, thereby improving indoor comfort. Weatherspripping is particularly important for properties in cold regions.

Common Weatherstripping Spots

• Access panel to attics
• Sill plates
• Ducts
• Between chimney and ceiling
• Ducts

3. Programmable Thermostat

You can also improve the energy efficiency of your home by using a digital programmable thermostat. By investing in such a thermostat, you can easily regulate and schedule the air-conditioning of your property and minimize energy wastage. Digital thermostats come with a number of programmable options that allow you to schedule the power usage for multiple days without having to manually operate the air conditioning system and other compatible equipment installed in your property.

4. Attic Insulation

Attic insulation is an essential part of weatherization. As ceilings’ drywalls have low R-value, they do very little, when it comes to preventing energy loss. More so, as heat rises, it is more effective and easier to insulate the attic as opposed to the walls. While you can use fiberglass to insulate the attic, blown-in cellulose is more effective. No matter which option you choose, it is important to hire a professional interior and exterior renovation expert to carry out the job.

Summing Up

Weatherization is increasing in popularity, as it not only helps save money, but also enhances indoor comfort. Though there are several weatherization solutions, it is important to ensure you hire a reputable contractor with proven competence in the domain. Jancon Exteriors is one such name. We offer tailored interior and exterior renovation solutions, with weatherization being no exception. Our renovation solutions also include siding and roof shingles replacement, along with fresh windows, doors and deck installation. To discuss your requirement, call us at (508) 520-3935, or fill out our contact form.