Posts Tagged ‘insulation’

Vinyl Windows To Save Energy

January 25th, 2010

When you want your home to be more energy efficient, there are several changes that you can make. Some of these involve major expenses such as changing to vinyl windows or installing a new furnace. Others may be done for a nominal fee and help you to use less energy to heat and cool your home.

Many homes built before 1950 had no insulation installed when they were built. Other homes may have had insufficient insulation. Whenever your home was built, adding the enough insulation to bring the walls and ceiling of your home to the correct R value can help to lower your energy cost and keep your home from feeling drafty.

In addition, homes often used wooden or aluminum windows. Those windows were made with single pane glass which allow heat to be lost through windows. Additionally, condensation would collect on the cold windows during the winter. This additional moisture could cause mold as well as wood rot in wooden windows.

Over time, wooden windows can become difficult to open or close and they may need to be replaced. Double pane vinyl windows are an easy choice. They remain easy to open for many years and the insulated double pane glass prevents heat loss and condensation.

Many homes are also still operating with the original furnace or a model that was built before there was much concern about energy efficiency. While these older furnaces may do a adequate job at heating your home, they can often cost more to operate than a newer furnace would cost.

Many local utility companies offer an energy audit. This service often does not cost you anything. The audit will help you to know areas that you should address as you attempt to make your home more energy efficient.

An energy audit will sometimes reveal some areas that need to be addressed which will cost very little for you to do. Sometimes, the repair can be done with an inexpensive tube of caulking or spray foam insulation to block cold air from entering you home.

You may learn how to insulate switches and electrical outlets. If your covers to switches and outlets on outside walls are not insulated, try putting a hand over one of them and you will feel the cold air that is blowing into your home around this necessary item.

Fireplace dampers need to be kept closed when the fireplace is not in use. Additionally, consider installing a fireplace air pillow which gives insulation and helps block downdrafts when the fireplace is not being used to heat the home.

For a lot of homes, the changes that need to be made can be inexpensive. In others, you will need to spend more money and may need to install new vinyl windows or a new furnace to save money. These changes will also help your to feel more comfortable in your own home as they will prevent drafts and cold spots in your home.

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How Your Windows Contribute To Global Warming

December 23rd, 2009

Are you paying extra because your house is poorly insulated? If you’re in an older home and haven’t given the environmental benefits of draught proofing your sash windows much thought then, yes, you probably are. But even a brand new house could end up causing a lot of trouble in that area. So you think your insulation is fine? Even minor amounts of air flow through the cracks of your windows and significantly change the temperature in your house. You probably don’t even know your house is draughty.

When I say “insulation, ” your first thought is probably heat in cold weather. This is only one half of the problem, the other half being unwanted warm air entering a house in the summer. If your house is well-protected, it will be several degrees cooler in the summer than it is outside. It will also make sure any cool air produced by air conditioning does not just float right out of your house. Remember entropy when you think about air currents; air wants to spread out. Don’t give it the chance.

Most people are familiar with the results of draughts: you will inefficiently attempt to change the temperature of your house and it will not work well. This will lead you to paying more than you need to. You will also be increasing the carbon in the air, no matter what your method of heating or cooling is. If more people paid attention to their frivolous energy expenditures, global warming would not be to such an extreme.

Where to begin? The first step, and one of the smartest, is to find a source of renewable heat that works for you. Solar heating is particularly good. However it won’t make you any warmer if you have a leaky house. You could give up your air conditioning, since the CFCs and HCFCs produced are prime contributors to global warming. But you certainly won’t be any cooler in the summer by giving this up. So look for flaws in your home.

So when you build a house or have any major wall repairs, make sure your insulation is as it should be; this is not an area to skimp. If you aren’t doing any major construction, head right for the windows. Warped or rotten wood not only decreases the value of your house but it lets leaks in and will cause other problems. The same for flaking paint on or around the windows. Keep your windows maintained from both sides.

Don’t be fooled by the idea of double-glazing; it doesn’t work. If anything, use secondary glazing on the sash, get all repairs professionally done, check on the window putty, and use curtains. The heavier the curtain, the more it will hinder air flow in and out.

If none of this seems to work, though, bite the bullet and put a towel up against the leak. It is an old stand-by remedy because it works, however rudimentary it looks. New devices have been made recently where a weighted cloth can be attached to windows or doors to really block any air flow.

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Roofing Insulation – Important Things To Consider When Purchasing

December 11th, 2009

The different types of roof insulation present in a home, will depend on the type of roof installed. Some people prefer the common type of roll in roof insulation, while others request the foam, or spray in type of insulation. Regardless of the type of roof insulation installed, it is very important to have a roof of a home insulated.

Generally, most roofs on homes are insulated in some way. The most popular type of insulation is the roll in type. This type of roof insulation typically comes in the pink or yellow colors and is rolled into a perfect fit between the rafters of the roof trusses. This type of roof insulation is generally used to keep the heat inside the home in the winter, or the cold inside the home in the summer.

Between the rafter and the underside roof is the area most likely taken up by roll in roof insulation. This allows the space of the attic or crawl space to be adequately used as a handy storage area for seasonal items such as Christmas decorations and other small items which are used annually.

No insulation under the roof is sometimes and option, but this option is definitely not a recommendation. Roof insulation not only traps heat, but it protects the lower floors of a home, in case of a roof leak, or roof damage.

A new house that is not equipped with any type of roof insulation will become quite costly each and every month, by causing excessive heating and utility bills. Heat rises to the highest secure place in the home, no matter what type of heating is used. Therefore, the roof insulation is used to secure the highest part of the home. Meaning, the heat will be trapped inside the attic or crawl space due to the presence of a good type of roof insulation.

Most roof insulation is extremely itchy when it comes into contact with human skin. Therefore, anyone that is installing any type of insulation should dress accordingly. Simply stated, a roof insulation installer should wear apparel which will cover most of the skin area which will come in contact with the insulation. Breathing apparatus should be used as well, because some roof insulation contains particles of fiberglass which can cut the soft tissue of the lungs if inhaled.

In conclusion, a prepared visual inspection before home purchase will save a sufficient amount of living costs when using insight. As a matter of fact, a successful inspection on the purchaser’s part, could request the seller replaces the roof or the roof insulation in order to gain the sale of a home.

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Rigid Foam Insulation Beads For Attic Insulation

November 21st, 2009

Rigid Foam insulation is often used for unfinished buildings and everyday products including installing attic insulation. The beads are shaped under extreme heat and pressure to custom fit. There are three types I will discuss each one and their uses. I will also discuss precautions to take with this insulation. Before long you will have a better knowledge when installing attic insulation

The first is polystyrene. This type of insulation uses deep heat and pressure to mold into shape. It is best used in walls and installing attic insulation. Although it is more expensive than the other two its characteristics makes it a lot stronger and more durable than the others.

The second is polystyrene It to is shaped under extreme heat and pressure. It is more expensive than polystyrene, but because of its consistency, strength and higher resistance to moisture it works better when installing attic insulation and in walls.

The third is polyisocyanurate and polyiso foam boards this product has varies strengths allowing it to maintain shape and stability. It can be used in extreme high, low temps effectively, making it ideal for installing attic insulation. When used with aluminum foil facings makes a perfect moisture barrier.

There are some things that you need to know before using rigid foam insulation. First we will discuss flame retarder. This product takes a lot to ignite but once it does it will burn steady. It will also smolder for some time. Safety regulations require you to use flame resistant material like panel, dry wall, or gypsum wall board over the insulation. It also deteriorates in direct sunlight so if you are installing attic insulation it needs protected with acrylic silicone, rubberized paint asphalt, roofing felt, or tar.

Bugs and sunlight damage is another concern with rigid foam board. If using this product on floors or basement its best to use insecticide treated product. Some areas require the vicinity around the foundation to be treated. Another way to prevent bugs is to apply on the inside walls not outside. If you do install on interior wall you might need a vapor diffusion retarder.

Rigid foam insulation soaks in and traps moisture. This could easily cause mold and wood damage. To prevent this you should use a vapor diffusion retarder especially when installing attic insulation.

When installing attic insulation, rigid board insulation can be an effective, if done properly. If you decide to install insulation yourself be sure that you know how to install this product, safety precautions and building code regulations.

AtticInsulationGuide.com is the Internet’s premier resource for DIY attic insulation, with facts and articles on topics such as reflective insulation, and much more. Click the links above for more information !

Can I Use Spray On Foam Insulation In Finished Walls?

November 19th, 2009

Many have heard about spray on foam insulation but only a few knows t the specifics. I will explain what it is and how it works. There are different costs and benefits for this product, which is especially effective to use when installing attic installation.

Spray on foam insulation is a liquid insulation made from polyurethane or urethane with a foaming agent. It is easy to apply; you spray the foam into the area, wait until it dries then cut away the excess. Next you apply the thermal cup. There is no need to caulk, vapor barrier, or house wrap. Spray on foam insulation does it for you by producing an air tight seal.

This insulation has many uses some of these include: roofing, walls, ceilings, basements and when installing attic insulation. It has also been used in restaurant freezers, walk in coolers and storage facilities. It’s been used for boats and boat docks. Airlines use it to strengthen airplane wings.

It has many uses for instance; installing attic installation, ceilings, floors, walls and roofs. Restaurants use them in their walk-ins’ and freezers. Sailors use them on boats and boat docks. Some have even strengthened plane wings with the spray on foam insulation.

Spray on foam insulation is cost effect by reducing contracted man hours. it forms such an air tight seal the need for caulking, house wrap and vapor barriers are eliminated. Since you can apply it over old material the need to rip out the old is also eliminated.

Spray on foam insulation is made from a polyurethane or urethane base. This makes it is safe to use and environmental friendly. It also reduces the need for fossil fuel which helps reduce global warming.

The cost for insulation ranges from $1.25 to $2.25 a square foot. It depends on the thickness of the wall and type used. Fiberglass may be cheaper initially, but when you add the cost for removing old material and winterizing the cost evens out

Spray on foam insulation is used in homes, restaurants, boats and planes. It’s handy when working in small area, For instance installing attic insulation. It’s simple to apply and you don’t have a big mess afterwards. Most importantly benefits out weigh the cost of spray on foam liquid insulation.

More interesting stuff on expanding foam insulation and similar subjects is available at AtticInsulationGuide.com – click a link and you will be in the right place for all attic conversion queries and related matters. Click on a link now !

Crawl Space Insulation Do’s And Don’ts

November 16th, 2009

Crawl space and attic insulation are essential when weatherizing your home. Without proper insulation air leakage will occur. This will make your heating and air work harder, less effectively. I will explain the best way to insulate both your attic and crawl space.

Before beginning crawl space insulation close foundation. Make sure all appliances in the crawl space have a powered combustion system before closing. Insulation should be taped at the seams and then fastened. After insulating, the house should be house wrapped or vapor barrier.

Once insulation attic insulation is complete, it’s suggested to add an air tight moisture barrier, for better moisture control. Once insulation is complete a good vent is needed. This will prevent roof damage.

Next insulate and secure the area. Some prefer fiberglass, others batt and blanket for crawl space insulation. Place insulation over the entire area, filling gaps. Use batts with a vapor barrier to cut and fit insulation around plumbing and electrical. Use foam or foam and fiberglass for band joints and air ducts. Use polyurethane foam for rim joist. Foam sheet or fiber glass should be used on foundation walls. Use insulation hangers 12-18″ apart to hold in place. Facing should face up unless you live in an area with mild winters and hot summers.

If you have a vented crawl space make sure appliances in it has a powered combustion system then close the vents, to prevent moisture buildup. When insulation be sure to tape the seams before you fasten them and either house wrap, vapor barrier afterwards.

The final step in crawl space insulation is to protect your home against moisture and bugs. The crawl space dirt floor should be covered in polyethylene and then facings on top. The facing seams should be taped to ensure a better seal. Finally apply a shield against termites between band joints and the masonry foundation. It is wise to leave a 3″ for termite inspection.

Once the attic insulation is up a tight moisture seal barrier should be applied across the studs. If holes are found in the barrier you can carefully patch these with duct tape. Once your insulation is complete you will need a good ventilation system to prevent damage to your roof.

Crawl space insulation and Attic insulation is very cost effective if done right. Not only will it save on fuel costs but will add to the value of your home.

No site but AtticInsulationGuide.com gives you all the tips and info on attic conversion and related subjects. Whether you are a newbie or an expert, make sure to check out attic conversion by following the links above !

When Choosing Materials For An Insulated Attic, Which Are Better?

November 13th, 2009

When choosing insulation there are 4 groups to consider they are; loose fill, foam board, Spray on foam and batt and blanket. All has job they are better suited for. Each has good characteristics and bad, with some R factor higher than the others. I will explain the difference between them so you can decide which one suits you.

Spray foam is one type to consider when choosing insulation. The insulation comes in easy to use bottles. It’s sprayed into the area to be insulated. It expands as its sprayed filling all the cracks, giving a better coverage. The initial cost is more, but unlike the others you do not need to winterize later. You will find it in insulated attics and finished walls. It’s the best to use in tight enclosed places.

The loose fill is similar to spray foam because it to is blown into the area. There are two types Cellulose, fiberglass and rock wool. Like spray foam it is used in finished walls and insulated attics. Its R factor is 3 or 4 with cellulose having a 30% higher R factor.

The third to consider when choosing insulation is foam board. It’s made from fiberglass, polystyrene or polyurethane. This insulation is used in edges of concrete blocks, borders, insulated attics and basement walls. The R factor is a little higher than the other it’s R4-R8 per square inch.

When choosing insulation batt and blanket insulation should be considered. This insulation comes in either 8′ sheets or rolls. It’s made from fiberglass or rock wool. It is cheaper per inch. special precautions are needed when installing. This is generally used in unfinished products like walls and insulated attics.

One thing to consider when choosing insulation is flame resistant’s Fiberglass insulation, spray on foam, batt and blanket are flame resist. Cellulose and foam boards are not. In fact foam boards require flame resistant covering like panel or dry wall.

When choosing insulation flame resistance is an important consideration. Two of these are not flame resistant they are: foam board and cellulose.

The four groups batt and blanket, loose fill, Spray on foam and foam board. Each one insulates, but the loose fill and spray on foam covers the cracks and crevices better. Cellulose is a type of loose foam but it is not flame resistant. Foam board is also not flame resistant and requires covering. All are ecological friendly. Most can be found in insulated attics, walls and ceilings.

AtticInsulationGuide.com has the answers to all the questions that you were afraid to ask about reflective insulation! To make sure that you won’t settle for anything less than the full story on attic insulation, check out the site right away !

Expanding Foam Insulation, the Best Choice for Complete Coverage.

November 10th, 2009

Expanding foam insulation is used for ceilings, walls, attics and basements. It’s also used around window seals, electrical boxes, outlets and other small, enclosed places. Sailors use it for docks and pilots to strengthen airplane wings. What is it, and how is it applied? I will give you details on this and the other 3 insulations types, in hopes to assist you when choosing insulation.

How is Expanding foam insulation applied? Contractors use special equipment to shoot either polyurethane or modified urethane liquid into the area. While drying it expands to fill every inch, once it’s dry, the excess is scraped off and a thermal barrier is applied

Next we will consider rigid board when we are choosing insulation. It’s made from fiberglass, polyurethane or polystyrene. It’s used in basement walls cathedral ceilings, flat roofs and building perimeters. Rigid board is not moisture or flame resistant. Bugs often burrow in this insulation. This product required to be covered by fire resistant paneling or dry wall. I wouldn’t consider rigid board when choosing insulation.

The third to consider when choosing insulation is loose fill. This insulation is made from fiberglass or cellulose. It is blown into the walls to make a blanket effect. This insulation is used in attics and walls of unfinished buildings. It’s treated to for fire and moisture protection.

Loose fill made from fiberglass or cellulose like Expanding foam insulation it’s blown into the walls to make a blanket effect. It is used in unfinished attics and walls.

When choosing insulation you should think about Batt and blanket. It’s made from fiberglass and rock wool. It’s installed between studs 16-24″ apart. It’s the cheapest, but proper installation is needed. After installing the house needs winterized further.

Expanding foam insulation has many uses from finished walls, ceilings, floors to boat docks to airplanes. Contractors especially like this insulation in tight enclosed places like electrical boxes, outlets, and window seals.

Expanding Foam insulation costs between $1.25 -$2.25 to install, but unlike the other, it doesn’t require extra work. It’s environmental friendly because it takes less energy to produce, does not hurt the ozone layer and reduces global warming gases. It improves air quality and reduces noise.

AtticInsulationGuide.com has the answers to all the questions that you were afraid to ask about attic insulation! To make sure that you won’t settle for anything less than the full story on foam insulation, check out the site right away !

categories: Attic Insulation,Insulate The Attic,Foam Insulation,Spray Insulation,Attic Improvement,House Insulation,Attic Conversion,Attic Ventilation,Roof Insulation,Roof Padding,Insulation,Home Improvement,Save Energy,Heating

Why Reflective Insulation is the best DIY Attic Insulation Solution

October 15th, 2009

Reflective insulation is a form of thermal insulation that uses reflective material such as aluminium to block out the transfer of radiant heat. Radiant heat, for example from the sun, travels through space from hot to a cooler surface. In this case, most of the heat your home will be exposed to will be on the roof which is then transferred to the rest of the house.

For that reason, it is ideal to use reflective insulation on the roof and attic. Most energy transfer from home to environment and vice versa occurs through those spaces. Thermal insulation reduces the heat transfer from a building and its environment. When there is a difference in temperature between two bodies, heat flows naturally from the warmer body to the cooler one. To maintain a comfortable temperature within the home, we turn our heating systems on in the winter and use air conditioning during the summer.

Most of the energy we use in the home goes towards heating and cooling. Using reflective insulation for your roof and attic reduces this huge waste of energy by decreasing the heat transfer so you require less energy to either heat or cool your home.

Reflective insulation is an environmentally friendly method of thermal insulation. Correctly installed insulation reduces air gaps and seals the building better further reducing the amount of energy that is normally wasted in the home due to bad insulation. This in turn reduces the amount of electrical power we use thus reducing our bills.

There are various types of reflective insulation that are available through different retailers. You may insulate your roof and attic yourself but it is always better to have the professionals do it. They will conduct a thorough check of the roof, for example for damp areas that may give rise to problems with the insulation in the future.

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How To Use Foam insulation For The Perfect Attic Insulation

October 10th, 2009

When insulating your attic you have to think about what type of insulation you want to use, how much you need, how much it is going to cost and the most important, how good is the insulation and will it last? There are different types of insulation and most very easy to install.

If you want a long lasting and very effective insulation, foam insulation is one of the best, but it is harder to install and therefore it must be installed by a professional. Foam insulation is also a bit more expensive than the other methods because it offers the highest R value in insulation and is also the longest lasting method of insulation.

Foam insulation comes in two types. The first is open celled foam, foam that is less compressed and holds a lot of air bubbles, because of this it can be removed very simply removed. The second is closed cell foams, foam that is very dense and compressed and hardly holds any air at all, this foam is a lot harder and is higher in R value and can’t be removed easily.

Because of the difficulty of installation for this type of insulation it should be carried out by a professional, so that it is done properly. The foam must be mixed and then placed into a machine to be able to spray it into the holes and uneven spaces in the attic. The foam will spread through the holes and begin to expand and get harder. If sprayed evenly, there will be no gaps between the insulation and will last longer.

Make sure that you are fully protected if you are in the attic when the insulation is taking place. By having your face and body fully covered with the proper mask and clothes, you will be at less risk from any damage the foam may cause.

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