Home Insulation Options for Homeowners on a Budget
Proper insulation is essential to ensure that a home remains comfortable in both winter and summer. A poorly insulated home can also be expensive since the energy bills can quickly mount up.
Although it's easy to simply say that you should insulate your home better, there is the undeniable fact that insulation costs can also be relatively high. The best insulating materials can come at a high cost, so homeowners may want to try out more affordable options first before settling on an insulation makeover.
Seal Doors and Windows
Windows and doors that open to the outside are among the highest causes of heat loss in a modern home. The problem, in most cases, isn't the loss of heat when the door is open but the loss of heat even when the door is closed.
Doors and windows may have gaps around them that allow hot air to leave during winter. In the case of doors, you can reduce the amount of heat loss by adding a draft excluder. A simpler solution is to just use a door snake which can be made from old socks.
Gaps around your windows can be sealed using caulk. Home insulation services can help you to do this if you don't know how to use a caulk gun.
Plug the Chimney
When your fireplace is not in use, it simply becomes a hole that can let hot or cool air out of the house. Without a fireplace damper, energy bills in a house will likely be significantly higher.
If your fireplace damper is missing or damaged in any way, have it repaired. You can also plug the chimney using chimney balloon. However, it is important to remember to remove it when you want to use the fireplace.
Stop Air from Leaking Out of the Attic
Because hot air rises, it usually ends up in the attic. This is why many people insulate their attics. However, a more cost-effective option is to add a reflective foil material, which will reflect the heat back down into the other parts of your home.
Insulate the Window Panes
Glass window panes allow a certain amount of heat out of your home. Even if there are no air gaps around the window, you'll still be losing heat. You can cut down on the amount of heat lost by taping the window panes using window insulation film.
If you're interested in any of these options, but you're unsure where to start, it's best to contact an insulation company for help.