When it comes to home insulation, most people only think about the attic. However, there are other areas of your home that need to be insulated in order to keep your energy bills low and your home comfortable. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 important areas of your home that should be insulated!
#1: Attic
The attic is the most important area to insulate, as it’s the easiest place for warm air to escape your home. Insulating your attic will ensure that your home stays warmer in winter and cooler in summer – saving you money on energy bills.
When warm air escapes through your attic, it leads to higher energy costs since you’ll have to run your heating/cooling system longer. Insulating your attic will make sure that the warm air stays in your home and keeps it at a comfortable temperature all year round – saving you money in the long run!
There are several different kinds of home insulation available for attics. The most common type is fiberglass insulation, which comes in large rolls or can be blown into place with specialized equipment. Other options include cellulose (shredded paper) and foam spray insulation. Before deciding what kind of insulation is best for your situation, it’s important to consult a professional who can inspect your attic and give you the best advice.
#2: Walls
Wall insulation can help reduce heat transfer through walls, making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Installing home insulation in interior walls or wood-framed exterior walls can help prevent heat loss and improve energy efficiency. For masonry walls, like brick or stone, external insulation can be added to increase energy efficiency.
When installing wall insulation, it’s important to consider a few things. The type of insulation and thickness needed will depend on the age of your home and the climate you live in. Additionally, different types of insulation are better for certain areas of your home – for example, fiberglass batts are good for walls, and cellulose is better for attics.
#3: Basement/Crawlspace
Insulating a basement or crawlspace prevents moisture from entering the living space of your home from below. It also helps keep out cold air during the winter months, helping to make sure your home stays comfortable.
The most common types of home insulation for basements are rigid foam boards, which can be attached to the walls and floor. This type of insulation is best for cold climates since it provides a barrier against cold air seeping in from the outside. Another option is spray foam insulation, which can be sprayed directly onto the basement walls and will help seal any gaps or cracks.
No matter what type of insulation you choose, make sure to install a vapor barrier in your basement or crawlspace as well – this will help keep out moisture and protect against mold growth.
#4: Windows and Doors
Windows and doors are a major source of heat loss in any home. Installing weatherstripping around windows and doors can help seal off drafts and reduce air leakage from outside. Additionally, adding insulation to window frames and door frames can also help keep your home at a more consistent temperature.
There are several different types of insulation for windows and doors, including foam insulation, batting, and even plastic wrap. The type you choose will depend on the age of your home and the climate you live in – consult with a professional to determine what kind of insulation is best for your situation.
#5: Pipes
Insulating pipes not only keeps them from freezing in cold weather but also helps keep the water running through them warmer for longer periods of time – reducing energy costs. Wrapping hot water pipes in insulated sleeves is an easy way to get started with pipe insulation.
For cold water pipes, it’s important to use insulating materials that won’t cause corrosion or rust. Fiberglass pipe wrap is a good option, as well as foam home insulation. Additionally, make sure you leave a little bit of space between the insulation and the pipe itself – this allows heat from the room to warm up the pipe, preventing it from freezing.
By insulating your home in all of these areas, you can help keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient year-round. It’s important to use the right kind of insulation for each area to ensure that your home is as efficient as possible. According to iFoam Insulation Professionals, ”With proper insulation, you’ll see steadier temperatures, fewer ‘dust bunnies’ and allergens, and lots of savings.” Doing so can save you money on energy costs and keep your home safe from the elements.
Thanks for the helpful advice!! I just want to add that if you get your hot water from a hot water storage tank, you also need to insulate it. Insulation with an R-value of at least 24 is preferable. This could reduce heat loss by up to 45% and save you around 10% in water heating costs.
The good news: you can find pre-cut water tank insulation jackets from around $20.