HomeFix Weekly Review: Keep Cool, Save Money

Saving money is important, but so is keeping cool in the summertime. With rising energy costs, it may seem difficult to do both at the same time. However, it is not impossible. You will find that energy efficiency is not so difficult to achieve, and you can save money by making some changes that may cost some money up front, but will end up saving more money than spent. HomeFix Corporation is one of the leading home improvement professionals on the East Coast, specializing in energy efficient upgrades. This post will give you several ideas to stay cool without breaking the bank in the heat.

Improve Your Windows

Depending on the size of the investment that you are willing to make, you can save a substantial amount of energy and money by improving the energy efficiency of your windows. The most effective choice would be to purchase replacement windows that are more efficient than your old ones. Energy efficient windows can prevent the transfer of heat in several different ways, such as the air flow around poorly installed or old windows, and the flow of heat through the pane itself. The most efficient models will allow sunlight to stream through the windows, while minimizing the heat from the sun that enters your home. This would be the most effective and permanent solution.

If there are gaps around your windows, it would be worth your while to seal them. You would be surprised at the amount of heat and air that flows through your home, relative to the size of the gap, so the energy efficiency of your home can only be improved by this quick home fix.

Black out curtains or shades will help decrease the amount of energy wasted on cooling costs, but keep in mind that this is only true when the shades or curtains are closed, so you will need to use lamps in a room with this solution, no matter the time of day.

Insulate to Keep Cool

It may seem?counter intuitive, but proper insulation goes a long way toward keeping your home cool in hot weather. Because heat flows from hot to cold, and insulation serves as a barrier against it, efficient insulation keeps heat either outside or inside.? Aside from what we refer to as "insulation" which is installed in places such as your walls and the attic, the materials that comprise your home also have an insulation value. Your roof, which has an SPF factor that deteriorates over time, is constantly subjected to light and heat from the sun. This is great news for homeowners with solar panels installed, but not so great when it comes to homes with old or low quality materials on the roof. An inspection by a contractor can tell you if your roof is in need of repair, or replacement, or if an upgraded roof would benefit you by improving your home's energy efficiency.

Additionally, your siding plays a major role in insulating your home, as well as protecting it from the elements. Newer materials are more efficient due to new technology and advances, and also because of deterioration over time. The specific material that your siding consists of plays a part as well. For example, wood and aluminum will not insulate as well as certain types of vinyl. Of course,?aesthetics?are also important, so fortunately new manufacturing methods can mimic the look of various materials, such as wood or cedar, crafted from energy efficient vinyl.

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