Summer is the season of sun-kissed adventures and endless fun possibilities. It brings many reasons to celebrate: sunshine and warmth, recreation and relaxation, and personal reflection and renewal.
But here’s the kicker! As the temperatures rise, so does the strain on your wallet. The good news is you can beat the heat and save on energy costs with simple strategies such as: Using installed insulation and upgrading to energy-efficient windows, doors, roofing and sidings.
Implementing these strategies enhances home comfort, lowers utility bills, and increases curb appeal. Plus, you become an environmental superhero by reducing your carbon footprint. Read on to discover the simple yet effective ways to lower your home energy costs this summer.
1. Insulation
Properly insulating your home makes it comfortable and prevents unwanted heat transfers reducing energy consumption. Studies show home insulation reduces energy consumption by 13%-16%.
How does it work? Insulation creates a barrier against heat flow, preventing hot air from entering your home and keeping the cool air inside. Proper insulation reduces the need for air conditioning, which consumes much power.
There are various types of insulation to consider, including the following.
- Fiberglass insulation: Fiberglass insulation is easy to install and consists of fine glass fibers that trap air pockets and provide thermal resistance. Fiberglass batts or rolls are the available options.
- Spray foam/blown-in insulation: Spray foam/blown-in insulation creates an airtight seal by filling gaps. It’s best for hard-to-reach areas and offers excellent energy efficiency.
Attics and walls are excellent places to insulate this summer to lower your home energy costs. For attic insulation, seal any leaks like gaps around electrical outlets, then apply the insulation. Fiberglass insulation batts or rolls are the best for insulating attics joints.
Fiberglass blown-in insulation is the best for wall insulation, especially existing walls. It’s often complex and best done by professionals. For new walls, fiberglass batts and rolls work best.
2. Window and Door Upgrades
Windows and doors allow heat to enter the house during summer and significantly contribute to energy loss in a home. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Upgrading to energy-efficient doors and windows minimizes heat transfer, reduces air leakage, and creates a thermally indoor space.
Many energy-efficient doors and windows exist, and you can install them in your home. The common ones include double-glazed windows, Low-E coated windows, insulated doors, and tinted or reflective glass options.
- Double-glazed windows consist of two panes of glass with an insulating layer of air or gas in between.
- Low-E coated windows reflect some of the sun’s heat while allowing natural light to enter the room. This maintains a comfortable indoor temperature.
- Unlike standard doors, insulated doors have a core for preventing air leakage and improving insulation.
- Tinted or reflective glass windows reflect the sun’s heat reducing heat gain.
Energy efficiency ratings like U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) are essential when choosing the right windows and doors for your home. According to the Department of Energy guidelines, windows with lower U-factor values of 0.20 to 1.20 and SHGC of 0 to 1 offer the best insulation.
3. Roofing and Siding Upgrades
Roofing and siding materials influence the heat the roof, and the walls absorb. Consider energy-efficient alternatives to minimize heat transfer, reduce air leakage, and lower cooling costs. The recommended options include the following.
- Reflective roofing materials.
- Insulated vinyl siding.
- Fiber cement siding.
- Stucco.
- Wood cladding with insulation.
In addition to using energy-efficient roofing and siding materials, you ensure proper installation for the best results. Best practice requires sealing any openings, adequate ventilation, and regular maintenance. Importantly, you must engage a roofing and siding installation professional if you’re not versed in DIY techniques.
Save your Home Energy Costs this Summer with Builders
Implementing these simple strategies will reduce your home energy costs this summer. Builders is your best option if you’re looking for professionals to help with the task. Contact us today to learn more about our installed insulation services.
