Source: https://www.pexels.com/
Negosentro | How to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient | Every home can do better when it comes to reducing its carbon footprint. The best part is that the way you can significantly cut that footprint is through the same methods you can reduce your utility bills and running costs. It’s a win-win for the environment and for your budget. These home upgrades can even help increase your home value or, at the very least, not end up at a hidden cost later on when it’s time to sell.
While there are many fancy, high-tech options out there, these simple but effective ones are going to be where your priority lies.
Have Your Roof Inspected
Unless you know that your roof is only a few years old, you’re going to want it inspected. Typical asphalt roofs have a lifespan of a few decades at most. If the roofing material on your property isn’t architectural asphalt but instead three-tab, then your roof’s lifespan is significantly shorter. Three-tab shingles may look fine from afar, but they typically only last between seven and 15 years.
That’s why, if you aren’t sure and you’re dealing with issues like damp or cold in your upper floors, it’s critical that you get in touch with experts in residential and commercial roofing. You may need a repair or a whole new roof. If you do need a new roof, consider all your options. You can add a green roof, use metal tiles, or stick with the classic asphalt. Either way, a new roof will help seal your home in, keep it dry, and therefore make it easier to heat and cool.
Give your Windows and Doors the Same Treatment
Similarly, you’ll also want to inspect your windows and doors. Double glazing does what it does not just because there are two panes of glass but due to an inert gas that’s injected between these panes. Over time, that gas leaks out, so even if you have double glazing, it may not be doing as well as it should. You can get an expert to test your home for where heat is leaking out the most to determine if you need to give your windows a refresh or if you need whole new windows. The same applies to your doors.
Tip: If there’s a fog between your window panes that looks like condensation, chances are there’s a leak in the seal, and your window will need to be professionally fixed.
Use Landscaping
Shade from trees can help cool down your home significantly in the summer, especially if that shade covers your roof. Evergreen bushes and trees can also be used to help insulate your home in the winter by protecting your exterior walls from cold winds. In short, you can absolutely use landscaping not just to improve your outdoor space but to help you lower your costs – so long as you know how and where to plant.
Smart Home Systems
Despite the common belief, you don’t actually need much to start making your home “smart”. Yes, you can add a smart HVAC system that works to heat and cool your home more efficiently, but for many, simply using old-school timers more efficiently can help you save. Add a home assistant and some special plugs, and you have even greater control over your home and energy usage than before. The best part about these smart home systems is you can start very, very small and grow your approach as time goes on to fit your budget.
