Is Energy Efficiency Really Important?

Fads come and go, from diets to home remodeling, you never know what is coming down the pike next. A big catch phrase over the last decade or so has been energy efficiency. When it comes right down to it, just how important is it to invest time and money into creating an energy efficient home? Is it worth it to call a Knoxville roofing contractor to discuss solar shingles? Would a Nashville windows specialist be able to assist you in lowering your utility bills?
   


Health

Evidence is mounting that shows a more energy efficient home could actually be beneficial to your health. Mold, dust mites, combustion materials and radon are all concerns in a non-energy efficient home. When you have sealed up the cracks and replaced inefficient siding, windows or roofs you limit the entry points in your home for rodents, insects, dust and even pollen. These are all definitely good reasons to consider remodeling or updating your home to a more energy efficient level.

Affordability

When contractors invest time in creating an energy, efficient home, they increase the number of buyers who can afford the property. If you are spending less on heating and cooling it, stands to reason, you can afford a bigger mortgage, which usually translates into a bigger and better home. A well built home equipped with energy efficient appliances will be an attractive option to a larger number of potential buyers. In addition, this can help communities by allowing lower income families the ability to purchase a nice home while still having some disposable income.

Environmental Issues

Did you know the majority of the electricity is created by burning fossil fuels? These are non-renewable resources and while you may not think, one person could change a lot, but as the energy efficiency boon continues to spread, we will see a reduction in the consumption of these precious resources. Currently there is a lot of effort being made to discover and develop renewable sources of energy, but until then every little bit helps.

Conclusion

Is working with a Nashville contractor or other local contractor to create a more energy efficient household really important? When you look at all the evidence, it is clear, that energy efficiency is important for many reasons up to and including health, environment and monetary savings. Whether you are trying to create a greener environment, save money or simply remodel your home so it is attractive to potential buyers, energy efficiency should be at the top of your list.

Replacing Windows to Improve Energy Efficiency

Do you live in the Knoxville Tennessee area and are wondering what you can do to improve energy efficiency in your home? Windows are a primary area for energy loss and even if you cannot afford total replacement, there are things you can do to minimize the loss. Here are a few tips for weatherizing your windows to improve energy efficiency and save money.

Weather Stripping

Depending on what type of window you are dealing with, you may be able to cut out a lot of energy loss by applying weather stripping. These are thin foam sheets backed with an adhesive that can be cut and formed to the edge you are covering, which is typically the bottom edge of the window or inside the window frame where the window meets the sash. This type of weatherization is fairly easily done and unless you have, hundreds of windows will not require the assistance of a Knoxville window contractor.

Caulking

Windows with several smaller panes are common in older homes and doors. Each window is generally held in place by caulking and sometimes wooden trim. Problems arise as your home ages and the caulk begins to chip away or shrink. Caulking can also help fill any stationary cracks or holes in and around your window. Before applying new caulking it is important to thoroughly clean the affected area, sometimes this means scraping peeling paint as well. Once the area is free of debris or loose paint clean the area with soapy water and allow it to dry completely before applying new caulk.

Plastic Sheeting

There are situations where even your best efforts fail to completely seal a window, and if you are not quite ready to hire a Knoxville window contractor, you still need a way to stop the energy loss. Plastic sheeting is a great temporary solution, especially during the cold winter months. Home improvement stores and even big box retailers usually carry the equipment you will need which includes staple gun, staples, plastic and perhaps weather stripping. A really nice alternative is clear as glass plastic, it is applied with double-sided tape and you then use a hair dryer to pull the plastic taut. The end result is plastic so clear you cannot even tell it is there.

Replacement Options

If you are in a situation where the only answer is replacement or you are just ready to modernize the home, there are several great energy efficient products on the market. This is a big project, but one that will make the biggest difference in the value of your home and its energy efficiency. Work with a local Knoxville window contractor to determine the best replacement options for your needs, home design and wallet!

Final Thoughts

You would never go to an open window and through your hard-earned money into the wind, yet that is exactly what you are doing when you have energy losses. There are many ways you can address the issue, both temporary and permanent fixes, so why live with energy loss anymore? When you are ready to remodel, remember the only thing worse than needing replacement windows is having new windows improperly installed. Call a Knoxville window contractor today for more information.