Be Comfortable and Save Money

Do you love your home's classic features but not drafts and high heating bills? Home weatherization can help you stay comfortable and keep energy costs down.

Home comfort can be compromised by both air leakage and inadequate insulation. Air leakage is unintended air movement into (and out of) your home. Inadequate insulation lets heat flow quickly to the outside through your home's attic, walls, or floor.

Close the Gaps

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, "Air infiltration can account for 30% or more of a home's heating and cooling costs..." Air gaps also may cause problems with moisture, noise, dust, and the entry of pollutants, insects, and rodents. Caulking and sealing gaps can easily and significantly reduce these problems. Weatherstripping can stop unwanted air leaks around doors and windows when they are closed. Sealing air gaps will reduce cold drafts and make your home or apartment more comfortable.

Caulks and Sealers

You can seal most home air leaks easily and inexpensively. Caulking is designed to close gaps of up to 1/4-inch around windows, heating ducts, moldings, plumbing and electrical fixtures, and holes where pipes and wiring pass through walls, floors, and ceilings. A wide range of sealers, fillers, and tapes are available for bigger gaps and for special applications like electrical boxes. Your local hardware store can help you find the best products for your needs from the many types and colors available.

Weatherstripping

If you can see daylight or feel drafts between closed doors or windows and their frames, they are leaking air.

Many easy-to-install weatherstripping products are available to close these gaps and reduce drafts. Check the windows and doors in your attic, garage, and basement, too. All buildings settle somewhat, and the original weatherstripping may be worn or ineffective.

Insulation

Insulation reduces the rate of heat loss from your home, just like the tea cozy on a teapot. Insulation is rated by its ability to resist heat loss, or R-value. The higher the R-value, the better insulated your attic, walls, or floors will be.

Insulation comes in many types, and professional installation can be relatively inexpensive. Building permits are usually required.

Homeowners can install some types of insulation themselves, but correct installation is crucial. To prevent fires and ensure efficiency, insulation must not block ventilation, electrical wiring, or recessed lighting fixtures. Please note that safe installation of insulation also is important. It typically requires protective clothing and a breathing mask to keep tiny insulation fibers off skin and prevent inhalation.

Do It Yourself or Hire Someone?

Whether you will be weatherizing your own home or hiring someone to do it, there are lots of resources available to help.

Please be sure to check out our Home Weatherization Cash Grant Program. You can also schedule a free energy audit by calling us on 748-3947. Books and magazines such as the Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings, published by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, and Home Energy magazine can provide guidance on the kinds of sealing and insulation projects that will most improve your home comfort.

If you hire someone to weatherize your home, it is recommended that you get three competitive bids and hire licensed, insured local contractors with good references. If you choose to do it yourself, please always work safely and follow local building regulations.