4 Summer Renovations for a More Energy-Efficient Home

With the summer heat at its peak, there’s no better time than now to consider a few renovations to make your home more energy-efficient. Making your home more energy-efficient can help you go green, while also saving you a significant amount of money. There are several home improvement projects that contractors recommend, and today we are going to look at four of those. Now, let’s dive right in!

1. Have Your Floors And Walls Checked

Floors and walls are an often overlooked component of maintaining an energy-efficient home. Flooring and walls are responsible for around 10 percent of a home’s energy loss. Some tips that contractors may recommend include: adding insulation in your walls and caulking throughout your home. If there is not enough insulation in your walls, your home may be losing heat or cool air from an air conditioning system. Therefore, caulking around baseboards and windows will keep the air in, making your home more energy-efficient. 

2. Consider Installing New Doors And Windows

Faulty doors and windows are a large source of air loss, accounting for up to 30 percent of energy loss in homes. That’s why it’s important you consider replacing your doors and windows. Some signs that suggest you might need to replace your doors and windows include: if they are warped, damaged, or extremely old. If you don’t have the time or money to replace doors and windows, a short-term solution includes weather-stripping, caulking, and patching windows and doors. 

Interested in renovating your kitchen, bathroom, or basement? Learn more about financing indoor home renovations.

3. Invest In A New Heating And Cooling System

To conserve energy, it is critical that you have the right heating and cooling system in your home. As air ducts age, they become prone to releasing energy. Moreover, it is estimated that old air ducts are responsible for around 30 percent of the total energy necessary to heat and cool a home. There are several types of HVAC systems, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Speak with a local home improvement contractor to discuss which one is best for you. 

4. Identify Leaks And Install Insulation

Air leaks are also one of the main causes of energy loss in homes. If a home is drafty, chances are there are air leaks. Consequently, energy is primarily lost through the basement and attic. Home improvement contractors will start in the basement, adding insulation and sealing any leaks. Once they have taken care of the basement, contractors will begin to work their way up, sealing leaks and adding insulation as needed. Sealing leaks could save you up to 30 percent annually on your energy bill, a significant savings. 

There you have it, four energy-efficient summer renovation ideas recommended by professionals. Summer is an excellent time to work on energy-efficient projects before the cool months hit. Each of these projects will help clients go green, feel more comfortable in their home, and save money. 

If you are interested in making renovations to have a more energy-efficient home, you might be wondering how to finance your project. Medallion Bank offers a variety of home improvement financing programs for contractors. Be sure to ask your contractor about your available financing options.