Gerard Construction knows how to build homes, bottom to top and inside to outside. Building a home or renovating a space involves a lot of inner workings, and our team members are experts in all the little parts that go into these inner workings, sometimes quite literally. Insulation is one of those inner workings that homeowners don’t always spend a lot of time imagining when they are daydreaming about their future home; however, it is an important aspect that we have some insight that will help you make a good decision.
How insulation works
According to the US Department of Energy, “Insulation in your home provides resistance to heat flow and lowers your heating and cooling costs.” This heat flow resistance works both ways, to keep your home cooler in the warm summer months by keeping the heat flow outside and to keep your home warmer in the colder months by keeping the heat flow inside. Most insulation acts as a literal barrier, reducing conduction (when heat moves through barriers) and convection (when heat circulates out of your home). Some insulation acts as a barrier with its simple presence; more layers mean less heat radiating in or out. Building materials and style, like the quality of work you will gain with Gerard Construction, can also be crucial, as everything is always done to the best of our ability.
What are ways to insulate your home?
There are several factors to consider in insulating your home. There are several choices for insulation in the walls and attic, and each has advantages. Your doors, door frames, and windows will also have different levels of insulation that can help you from losing energy to the outdoor elements. Weather stripping is a great weekend project, and your new build or renovation can include the installation of double-paned windows to increase insulation. Some air can be lost in other ways, like through a fireplace or doors left open frequently, so consider ways to eliminate these, as they can add up quickly.
Why is proper insulation important?
Let’s face it, it costs money to keep your home at a perfect temperature, so you and your guests can be comfortable and maximize enjoyment. It takes work to heat or cool your home, and when heat radiates in or out of your home, your preferred air setting is maintained by circulating new air at the right temperature. Insulation significantly reduces the air that flows in or out, keeping a constant temperature and saving you money. The materials you invest in will save money in the long run. Energy Star cites that homeowners could see significant savings in their heating and cooling costs with a likely 15% savings on that portion of their bill. However, insulation needs are different throughout the country, and you need to work with Gerard to ensure your insulation is rated properly, installed correctly, and that there are no missing gaps as you look to move into your home.
To learn more about insulation types, you can refer to the difference between fiberglass and spray foam insulation. You can also contact us if you have questions regarding your insulation as you consider a build or renovation. Gerard Construction wants you to build your dream home with us, making every part of that, insulation included, important to us!