The cold weather in the Northeast region raises heating expenses, which amounts to about 60% of energy costs. However, when proper insulation is used, you can save up to 15% annually on energy bills. There are many types of insulation and fiberglass is prevalent amounting to 85% of installations and ultimately reducing energy use by 12%. If you live in a colder climate, eco-friendly cellulose insulation may be ideal as it boasts an R-value of 3.5/inch.
If you need airtight sealing and ultimately higher R-values, you can opt for spray foam insulation for an R-value of 6.5/inch. By taking care of air leak problems and adding insulation to your home to prevent warm air loss from inside your house, you can save about $600 annually. Plus, an environmentally friendly factor is that this process also reduces 780 pounds of carbon emissions per year.
Best of all, homeowners can complete DIY projects, such as caulking and weatherstripping, which could save you approximately $200 annually. If you choose to go the route of insulation additions, you’ll be able to make informed choices, lower your energy costs, and lend a hand to the environment.
Individuals who live in the Northeast region have the benefit of experiencing all four seasons. However, the winter season can be harsh for some, with frigid temperatures and heavy snowfall. Cold weather drives up energy consumption, producing heating needs that may be quite higher than the national average.
To show a comparison, Northeast households in the winter consume around 65% more energy with regard to indoor heating than households in other regions. The result is heating costs that can soar to high rates, even costs of over $2,500 annually.
The answer to high heating costs is ensuring your home is well-insulated. With the right type of insulation, you’ll reduce heat loss, which can account for approximately 25% of your total energy use in the winter.
If you invest in insulation improvements, you can save up to 20% regarding heating and cooling expenses. Plus, you’ll be more comfortable indoors. You’ll experience energy savings and help the environment by being eco-friendly in reducing your energy usage.
Fiberglass insulation works by trapping the air in tiny glass fibers which will create a barrier and slow heat transfer. The insulation retains heat and reduces drafts, increasing energy efficiency by 20%. It’s quite easy to install fiberglass insulation. Just be sure to wear the proper safety gear to avoid skin irritation that can result from the fiberglass material.
Cellulose insulation is composed of recycled paper that’s treated with fire-retardant chemicals. This eco-friendly option has an R-value of 3.5/inch and works well, even to the point it outperforms fiberglass in buildings located in colder climates. The loose-fill form is easily adaptable for filling crevices and cavities, ultimately enhancing thermal performance.
Spray foam insulation goes on in spray form then expands and hardens. The end result is an airtight seal that helps minimize heat loss. This type of insulation has an R-value of 6.5/inch which results in superior insulation; however, improper installation can lead to health hazards. Therefore, it’s vital to hire a certified professional to ensure safe and effective application.
When you live in the Northeast, you’ll want optimal insulation in place. Doing so ensures indoor comfort and a reduction in energy consumption. With regard to R-values, the levels recommended for Northeast homes will vary based on the climate zone. In colder regions, like areas of Maine and Vermont, the insulation in attic spaces should have R-values ranging from R49 to R60 and walls should have R-values ranging between R21 and R26.
Another way to pursue energy efficiency is to address air leaks. Northeast area homes can lose approximately 30% of heating and cooling energy simply due to air infiltration. Do what you can to save energy by sealing gaps and cracks. You can do so by using weatherstripping and caulk and save up to 10% each year on energy bills.
Pay close attention to potential problem areas such as drafty windows and doors, basements with poor insulation, and uninsulated crawl spaces. Make these areas more energy efficient by adding insulation.
When you adhere to recommended R-values and take care of air leaks, you can enjoy a more draft-free, comfortable home environment.
When choosing what type of insulation to use, here are some factors to consider:
Fiberglass insulation is a budget-friendly insulation with costs around $0.50 to $1.50/square foot. This insulation is both affordable and works well for insulating the home. A slightly more expensive insulation is cellulose, which is both eco-friendly and energy efficient with an approximate price range of $1.00 to $1.50/square foot.
In the Northeast, which is colder than some other regions, insulation with a higher R-value, such as spray foam insulation (R-value of 6.5/inch), is recommended to ensure proper comfort and energy efficiency.
Cellulose insulation is made from recycled materials and is a sustainable choice that has a low environmental impact. Also, the production of this insulation saves approximately 24-34 million BTUs of energy/ton when compared to fiberglass insulation.
Using the right insulation in your home can result in long-term energy savings. In fact, homeowners can save somewhere up to 30% on their heating and cooling costs when they have well-insulated homes. As a result, this amounts to hundreds of dollars in savings annually.
When taking on insulation projects, follow these steps:
Prioritize safety when tackling DIY projects and consider asking a professional to do the job for you.
It’s important to know when to call the professionals for help. If it’s an easy DIY project, you may be able to do it yourself. However, it may be in the best interest to call the professionals if the project is out of your expertise. Hiring certified contractors enables you to get the proper installation and do so safely. When hiring a reputable insulation specialist, check for certifications such as NATE and BPI. Analyzing customer reviews can also help.
Proper insulation is vital for Northeast homeowners to combat extreme temperatures. Insulating the home can save you up to 15% annually regarding energy expenses. Pursuing energy efficiency through proper insulation can help you lower energy bills and help the planet. Knowing how to conserve energy through insulation remedies is a step in the right direction.
