Cold Weather Home Improvements
As winter comes on, many homeowners are looking for ways to reduce cold air leaks. In addition to staying more comfortable on the worst days, improving your home before the cold weather hits will reduce your utility costs.
Benefits of fiberglass insulation
A home with fiberglass insulation between the studs and attic roof joists will hold warmth effectively. Fiberglass insulation is also inherently fire-resistant. Finally, fiberglass insulation is quite cost-effective.
Drawbacks of fiberglass insulation
Fiberglass insulation requires an extra vapor barrier, which will add to the cost. Additionally, handling fiberglass insulation can be challenging; it is an irritant to skin and eyes.
Over time, fiberglass insulation will compress, especially if it is laid flat inside a roof. The loss of loft will translate to a loss of efficiency. If you have fiberglass insulation blown inside the walls of your home, this too will settle, and you will lose loft.
Update your siding
If you are concerned that your current fiberglass insulation is becoming less effective, it may be time to look at adding additional protection. There are many siding products that come with insulation built in, which can both reduce noise pollution and protect your home from cold. Reach out to professionals like I Got a Guy for a conversation about updating your siding.
Replace old windows
If your home is older and has only single-pane windows, it's time to look at the new and eco-friendly options such as layered glass. New insulated windows will keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Check your crawlspace
It's also a good idea to check your crawlspace for leaks and moisture penetration. Insulation experts such as DBS Repair can help you assess where your home is letting in cold air and suggest the best updates while you get your insulation quality levels checked out.
Spray foam insulation
You can also check prices on spray-in insulation. Generally, these can only be applied to open wall studs and ceiling joists, but if you know that your attic is not efficiently sealed, a spray foam insulation installation can seal up many air leaks and stop warmth from escaping your home through the roof.
Be aware that spray foam projects will release chemicals into your home as the product cures. If at all possible, get your spray foam insulation installed while you can leave windows and doors open. If your home is already sealed up for cold weather, you may need to leave the house during the installation and curing time. Pets and children may be especially at risk.
Use the sun
Plant a deciduous tree to the south of your home. In summer, it will give you shade. In winter, it will let the sun warm your home. Shade trees to the west will also give you a break from heat buildup at the end of the day. Properly pruned, deciduous shade trees can offer beauty as well as a break from the heat.
You'll find plenty of good ideas to beat cold weather in The Home Mag. Check out our Facebook and Instagram pages for more tips.
