Exterior Remodeling Projects to Increase Energy Efficiency
Sep 27, 2021
A key component of considering exterior home improvements is to enhance a home’s energy efficiency. With that in mind, Scott Cline, J&B Construction owner, offers his ideas regarding exterior renovations to make your home energy efficient.
Roofing/Attic System
A roofing system is a home’s first line of defense against the elements, which is why it’s so important to closely examine roofing system’s condition, especially with fall here and winter around the corner. That said, if you notice the roof is damaged, i.e., there’s broken or missing shingles, or worse, leaks are present inside the home, you can conclude that the roof is the root cause of major energy loss in your home, and repair or replacement is imminent. “Furthermore, your attic plays an integral role in your home’s roofing system and could be a culprit of significant energy loss as well,” Scott said. “If a new roofing system is necessary, this will likely include new attic insulation, which is crucial as it protects the home from excessive heat, cold, and moisture.”
Attic insulation also helps maintain a comfortable indoor air temperature throughout the livable areas of the home despite extreme temperatures and even snow and ice. Attic ventilation is also necessary to ensure the attic does not become overly hot in the summertime and warp roofing materials. “Ultimately, a new roofing system will minimize the strain placed on your home’s HVAC system, thus lowering your energy bills,” he said.
Windows
If your home’s windows are showing clear signs of failing, which typically includes difficult operation, drafts, cracks or chips, or the regular formation of condensation in between windowpanes,
then it’s safe to assume the windows are no longer energy efficient, (which will be reflected in a home’s energy bills), and new windows are needed. “Equipped with increased insulation, new windows can effectively keep a home cool and comfortable in the summer and warm and cozy in the winter,” said Scott. “Additionally, many Energy Star certified windows are coated with low-emissivity coatings, which are designed to reduce UV sun damage to flooring, furniture, and more.”
Exterior Doors
Whether a draft is detected when standing next to an exterior door, you can see sunlight seeping through the perimeter of the door when closed, or you notice condensation regularly forming on the door’s windowpanes, you can conclude your exterior door has become an energy waster. “This is especially true if your exterior door has exceeded its life expectancy, as older doors tend not to be properly insulated,” he said. “Conversely, today’s exterior doors are often made from steel or fiberglass, which are optimal insulators and yield tremendous energy savings.”
Siding
If a home’s siding is older and showing obvious signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, warping, or rot, you can be confident that installing new siding will considerably improve the home’s overall energy efficiency. More specifically, new siding will increase the R-value of a home’s exterior, which identifies how well a type of insulation can keep heat from leaving or entering a home, translating into lower energy bills. “Insulated vinyl siding is particularly beneficial in terms of maximizing energy efficiency.” Scott said. “One of the most popular siding materials on the market, vinyl siding requires minimal maintenance and is resistant to rot and insects.”
To improve your home’s energy efficiency and give your home an exciting new look, call J&B Construction at 262-437-0537 or complete our online contact form.
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