One of the primary reasons home insulation is important is to ensure the living space’s warmth and comfort. It basically allows homeowners to stay cozy inside their houses during the winter and summer. Insulation will keep the space at the desired temperature, protecting the house and the occupants from excess heat and cold.
Another good thing is that a well-insulated home is also energy-efficient, so you can reduce your cooling and heating costs. With proper insulation, a homeowner saves money on energy bills while also taking part in preserving the environment with a lower carbon footprint. Keep in mind, though, that there are different insulation options out there. It’s best to talk to a professional installer to know which ones suit your house’s requirements and preferences. To give you a clearer idea, here are the top insulation tactics for residential properties.
1. Purchase a new boiler
Are you still using a 10-year-old boiler? This is the time to replace it with a modern condensing model. Old non-condensing boilers are less than 70% efficient, which leads to higher energy bills. Purchasing a new and energy-efficient boiler cannot only make your living space cozier. But you also get to save a lot of money in the long run. Inefficient boilers waste half of their consumed fuel.
Shop around multiple energy companies and installers so that you can get the best deal based on your budget and house requirements. Don’t wait until your boiler breaks down and upgrade your heating system now. Only hire qualified gas-safe installers to avoid unnecessary problems with your new heating unit.
2. Draught-proof your house
Draught-proofing is a no-brainer for any homeowner. The problem is, not everyone knows that tasks draught-proofing covers. The first thing you should check is your ventilation system. Your ventilation shouldn’t be blocked, so the air flows in and out of your home, keeping indoor air healthy and fresh. Check your wall vents, underfloor grilles, extractor fans, and trickle vents. As for the actual draughts, inspect which parts of the house have unwanted openings or gaps that must be covered.
Windows are a common ground for gaps, which you can seal using plastic, metal, or foam strips. Utilize a silicone sealant if your windows do not open at all. Other parts of the house that may require draught-proofing are your doors, chimneys, loft hatches, floorboards, pipework, and wall cracks. While most of these gaps must be blocked, take note of areas that require good ventilation, like the bathroom and kitchen.
3. Ensure quality house foundation
Whether you’re planning to have a room addition or a new entire build, a quality foundation plays a crucial role in the home’s insulation. Many homeowners think that the roof of the house is the sole culprit for heat loss. The truth is, having a poorly constructed foundation can lead to a colder floor or surface that can encourage heat loss. Home builders highly recommend constructing a concrete foundation for residential properties.
Concrete is popular for its porous qualities and insulating properties. On the other hand, if you’re trying to insulate an old house, it’s best to first talk to a local professional on how to energy-proof your living space. They can help you figure out the best insulation that can be added to your current foundation, or instead, recommend that you build a new foundation.
4. Invest in double-glazed windows
If you have a bigger budget, you can replace your old windows with double-glazed options for better insulation. Single-paned windows might be cheaper, but they actually cost more in the long term since they’re not energy efficient. Double glazed windows are perfect barriers against outside temperatures, improving the comfort of your living space. Their resistance to energy transfer is because they are filled with non-reactive or inert gases like xenon and argon. These gas-filled windows might be costly, but they are way better at insulating and making your home more comfortable.
Also, consider improving the efficiency of your windows by adding insulating films, weatherproofing, and using thermal curtains. Lastly, consider the R-value system when buying new windows. Generally, you can expect greater thermal resistance and insulating value if the windows have higher R-value numbers.
There is no question that proper insulation can keep a home cozy and healthy for the occupants all year round. So whether you’re updating an old house or building one from the ground up, consider the insulation strategies and options in this guide. Don’t hesitate to work with a professional installer and home builder to ensure quality residential insulation.
