Category: upgrade insulation

Insulation Vs Windows for Better ROI

Insulation Vs WindowsWhen thinking of a home upgrade that will increase energy efficiency, homeowners typically consider two projects: insulation or windows. There is a lot of confusion about which option provides a better return on investment.

Building envelope
Your home’s envelope consists of the walls, floor and roof. When considering the total square footage of your home’s envelope, windows make up a very a small portion. By upgrading the energy efficiency of your home’s attic and walls, you will be maximizing energy efficiency across a greater portion of your home’s envelope and will see a greater energy benefit.

Air flow
Air inside a home naturally flows from ground to sky. A home loses 70% of energy through the attic and roof – far more than is lost through windows or doors. By upgrading your attic insulation, conditioned air will stay inside your home. Adding air sealing further prevents conditioned air from seeping out around ducts, attics and more.

R-value
R-value is a measure of the amount of heat flow a certain product resists. The higher the R-value, the better it reduces heat flow. The R-value of windows can vary based on the number of panes, air space between panes, etc.

Double pane windows have an R-value of 1.5 to 2. Upgrading insulation to current code would result in attic R-value of R-30 to R-38 in North Carolina. When you consider the difference in R-value and the natural heat flow in a home, it’s easy to see how a fresh blanket of insulation is a great investment.

Cost
When looking at the bottom line, your choice is clear. According to Home Advisor, the average cost to upgrade windows in the Charlotte area is $4,526. The same report shows the average cost to upgrade insulation in the Charlotte area is $1,124.*

Ready to add insulation to your attic? Contact us to schedule your free estimate.

* Project costs can vary.

5 Tips by ABS Insulating to Save Money on Energy Bills

Tips to Save Money on Energy Bills in Charlotte, NC

Any time is a good time to save money on energy bills! If you dread cool weather, then fall is a great time to make home energy improvements. Here are some projects to get a jump on before cool temps arrive:

  1. Check Your Heating System.
    Your HVAC system will work more efficiently and have a longer life if it’s regularly serviced. Having your system checked can also help prevent a system break down during winter.
  2. Upgrade Your Insulation.
    The majority of heat loss in a home occurs up, not out. As your home naturally breathes, conditioned air is drawn up through the house an out the roof/attic. Adding insulation to your attic is a cost-effective way to save money on energy bills.
  3. Inspect Your Gutters.
    Water can cause huge damage to a home! It’s a great time to make sure your gutters are fully functioning and properly draining water away from your home. While you’re at it, consider adding gutter leaf protection so next year you won’t have the messy job of cleaning your gutters.
  4. Air Seal.
    Air sealing penetration points around your home helps prevent conditioned air from escaping. Penetration points can be found around outlets, vents, ducts, chimneys and more. Keeping conditioned air inside your home keeps your home comfortable and reduces wear and tear on your HVAC system.
  5. Reverse Your Ceiling Fan.
    Easy to do – and often overlooked! Changing the direction of your ceiling fan creates an upward draft and redistributes warm air. Helpful hint: dust your fan blades before reversing directions!

Interested in upgrading your attic insulation, upgrading your gutters, or sealing air leaks? Contact our office to schedule a free estimate!