The attic is the easiest place to start — according to Energy Star, 60% of air leaks are through the attic. If your attic isn’t adequately insulated and air-sealed, you will get the most bang for your buck from starting with this area.
The other two main areas that many people don’t think of right away:
- Walls. ENERGY STAR estimates that 15% of a home’s energy loss is through exterior walls. Insulation can be added to exterior walls of existing homes through a process called “drill and fill.” A piece of exterior siding is removed and a small hole is drilled in the exterior wall. Then either fiberglass or cellulose insulation is dense-packed into the wall cavity, the hole is sealed, and the siding replaced.
- Basement Box Sills. It is estimated that 25% of a home’s heat loss is a result of uninsulated box sills. This is the area of the basement where the outside wall of the home meets the joist of the first floor. The thin layer of siding, plywood and foam in this area isn’t enough to prevent energy loss, cold basements and high energy bills. We recommend adding spray foam insulation to box sills to both insulate and air seal this critical area. Added benefit? Your basement won’t be as cold during the winter, meaning added living space for your home!
Have questions about adding insulation to your home? Contact us (or your own local insulation experts) at any time — we are happy to help!
