Home improvement ideas to suit a family budget

The best way to reduce annual utility costs is to make the effort to improve the home’s energy efficiency. Though some modifications to increase energy efficiency can be pricey, others are relatively inexpensive, even free, allowing homeowners to cut their heating and cooling bills substantially.

Tips for making your home energy-efficient

Deciding how to insulate a home will depend on the age of the home, its physical condition, where insulation is needed and how much it will cost. Newer homes are more likely to already have suitable insulation, while an older home may need substantial insulation added to eliminate free access to the outside by warm air on the inside. Insulating the attic is very important as it prevents warm air from leaking out of the home as it rises; rolled insulation should be used to insulate between the rafters. The walls of the home should also be well insulated, either with rolled insulation or blown cellulose insulation if a new build, or cavity wall insulation in an older property.

Keeping cold air out during the winter and warm air out during the summer is a major priority when making a home energy-efficient. Insulating the windows and outside doors are the best way to do this. Windows are notorious for energy inefficiencies, but are also some of the easiest areas to make more energy-efficient. Start by checking for leaks; when draughty leaks are found, use some good-quality caulking and fill the openings. Never cover air bricks or vents that were probably put there for a very good reason during construction.

All the doors that lead outside need to be insulated as well, with draught proofing applied to the perimeter of each door and caulking used to fill in any cracks or holes in the framing. Be sure to measure the perimeter of the door before purchasing weather stripping; take advantage of the expertise of the home improvement professionals at the DIY store to assist in choosing the best draught proofing for the job.

Window coverings

One of the easiest ways to help reduce the loss of heat through windows in the winter, as well as the loss of cool air in the summer is by the use of window coverings including curtains, blinds and shutters. These window coverings can be closed for the night during winter months, keeping precious heat in and decreasing the need for the boiler to turn on. During the daytime, the window coverings can be opened or pulled back, allowing warm sun to come in and naturally heat the house, also saving on heating energy. In the summer, the opposite is true as the coverings are used to keep excess heat out during the day, while allowing cool breezes to come in during the night, decreasing the need for the air conditioner to turn on.

Thermal curtains are a special type of curtain that is particularly useful in helping to regulate home temperatures. Their dense insulation forms a solid barrier when placed on the windows. If budget concerns prevent taking more long-term steps, thermal curtains are a quick and inexpensive way to insulate windows and increase energy efficiency.

Words: Publishers Network Editorial