Make sure you have the right amount of insulation
First, check the insulation in your attic and ceilings meet the levels recommended for your particular geographic region. Insulation is measured in R-values, the higher the R-value, the better your attic and ceiling will resist the transfer of heat. The DOE (Department of Energy) recommends ranges of R-values based on local heating and cooling costs and climate conditions. State and local codes in some parts of the country may require higher or lower R-values than the DOE recommendations. Always check with your local building department for the building code which they have adopted.
To get more specific insulation recommendations, check out the link to the Zip Code Insulation Calculator below. This will use your zip code to provide more regionally specific information for your locale. Insulation can come from a variety of materials. It usually comes in four basic types, each which different characteristics.
Rolls, batts and blankets
Each of these are flexible products made from mineral fibers. Materials used are fiberglass or rock wool. Generally they are available in widths to match standard spacing of attic framing, ceiling joists and roof rafters.
Loose-fill insulation
This type is usually made of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose. Cellulose comes in shreds or granules. This type of insulation should be blown into spaces using special air-powered equipment. This equipment can be rented from your local home improvement store. Once applied, this material will conform to existing building spaces and attics. Loose-fill insulation is well suited for places where it may be difficult to install other types.
One important note:
Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss, but you need to be careful how close you place insulation next to a fixture unless it is marked IC, that is one designed for direct insulation contact. Check your local building codes for recommendations. Always read the product packaging and follow the product instructions on installation. Also, always wear the proper protective gear. These relatively inexpensive renovations can save you a great deal over the year by reducing your home heating and cooling costs and you can do it yourself.
Link to the Zip Code Insulation Calculator
http://www.ornl.gov/~roofs/Zip/ZipHome.html
First, check the insulation in your attic and ceilings meet the levels recommended for your particular geographic region. Insulation is measured in R-values, the higher the R-value, the better your attic and ceiling will resist the transfer of heat. The DOE (Department of Energy) recommends ranges of R-values based on local heating and cooling costs and climate conditions. State and local codes in some parts of the country may require higher or lower R-values than the DOE recommendations. Always check with your local building department for the building code which they have adopted.
To get more specific insulation recommendations, check out the link to the Zip Code Insulation Calculator below. This will use your zip code to provide more regionally specific information for your locale. Insulation can come from a variety of materials. It usually comes in four basic types, each which different characteristics.
Rolls, batts and blankets
Each of these are flexible products made from mineral fibers. Materials used are fiberglass or rock wool. Generally they are available in widths to match standard spacing of attic framing, ceiling joists and roof rafters.
Loose-fill insulation
This type is usually made of fiberglass, rock wool, or cellulose. Cellulose comes in shreds or granules. This type of insulation should be blown into spaces using special air-powered equipment. This equipment can be rented from your local home improvement store. Once applied, this material will conform to existing building spaces and attics. Loose-fill insulation is well suited for places where it may be difficult to install other types.
One important note:
Recessed light fixtures can be a major source of heat loss, but you need to be careful how close you place insulation next to a fixture unless it is marked IC, that is one designed for direct insulation contact. Check your local building codes for recommendations. Always read the product packaging and follow the product instructions on installation. Also, always wear the proper protective gear. These relatively inexpensive renovations can save you a great deal over the year by reducing your home heating and cooling costs and you can do it yourself.
Link to the Zip Code Insulation Calculator
http://www.ornl.gov/~roofs/Zip/ZipHome.html