Tip
Tips - can easily be implemented for little or no cost to improve comfort and energy efficiency in the home.
- Insulate the attic hatch by cutting a piece of rigid insulation and affixing it to the top of the attic hatch
- Seal the attic hatch with removable sealant
- Add weatherstripping to older, drafty windows
- Insulate and seal the attic hatch frame, which is often simply trim that has been added by the builder
Upgrade Opportunities - address those home improvements that take a greater commitment, either of time or money, but could significantly improve a home’s comfort and energy efficiency, and can be done by a professional or a homeowner skilled in these areas.
- Insulate the basement walls, including sealing and insulating the headers between the joists
- Insulate crawlspaces
- Blow in insulation where possible, such as in the attic
- Upgrade doors or windows, particularly if they are old and drafty
If You’re Renovating - things to consider if significant home improvements are planned, and could make a serious impact on a home’s comfort and energy efficiency. These changes should be undertaken by a professional or a homeowner who has skills in this area.
- Adding insulation to the exterior of the basement walls
- Consider window placement – if you are adding windows to your home, perhaps through an addition, consider minimizing the northern facing windows and increasing the size of the southerly windows