Tips for Weatherizing Your Home

You might have heard that weatherizing your home can save you some money on utility bills, but did you realize these savings could total as much as 20 to 40 percent off home heating and cooling bills? With that nice chunk of change, you may be able to complete some of those home renovations you’ve been putting off, take a nice vacation or save for the future.

By weatherizing, you make your home more airtight so that hot air stays inside in winter and cool air keeps you cool in the summer. Start weatherizing with these tips.

• Identify cracks and air leaks – You know there’s a draft by the front door threshold because you can feel it. What other small cracks allow indoor-outdoor air flow? Check for places where different materials come together or where utility and cable lines enter your home. Check the insides of window and door trim, where leaks can occur. To find these areas later, mark them with colored tape.
• Caulk – Once you’ve found your air leaks, caulk them using a caulking compound.
• Use weatherstripping around doors and windows – Weatherstripping seals leaks around things that move, like windows. It should be tight enough to block air flow, yet loose enough that you can open the windows and doors without a struggle. Since weatherproofing comes in felt, vinyl and metal finishes, you may choose a finish that fits your budget and complements your home.
• Check the basement and the attic – Don’t forget about these important spaces, which are often sites of significant air leakage. Caulk and seal your basement and attic. Use fiberglass insulation near attic wiring to add additional protection.
• Weatherproof your exterior – Outside, identify and caulk leaks just like you did inside. Also check whether your dryer vent has a damper and whether it fits tightly. If not, consider replacing the vent with one that contains a snug damper.

Weathering expenses pay for themselves fairly quickly. Caulking and weatherstripping alone will pay for themselves within one year, allowing you to quickly realize energy savings. Take steps now to weatherize your home and lower your utility bills come summer.

To learn more about how Indoor Air Quality, Inc. in Denver, Colorado can help you with your cooling needs, take advantage of mfg. and utility company rebates, and make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient year-round, please submit a “Schedule a Service” form for a free estimate or contact our trained technicians today.