Top 5 Upgrades to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
Winter around the Twin Cities area is in full swing, and that means short and bitterly cold days for the next four to six months!
Winters in Minnesota are some of the harshest you will find in the world. With winters being so frigid, your home’s heating system is being put through the test year in and year out. In fact, your HVAC might be working so hard that it’s costing you more than you would like to bargain for!
Luckily, there are some home improvements you can do to make your home more energy efficient.
1. Roofing
Your roof is your first line of defense when it comes to elements protecting your home from rain, sleet, snow, hail, wind, and anything else Minnesota weather can throw at you. You may want to consider roof repair or replacement when it shows signs of wear and tear.
As you may already know, heat rises. Dents, cracks, leaks, and missing shingles can contribute to heat loss over the winter, and the heat that escapes can sit in your attic and increase its overall temperature. This becomes a problem as it provides the perfect environment for an ice dam to form on your roof, which can cause even further damage.
Upgrading to a new roof when needed is one of the most significant investments you can make in your home’s energy efficiency. However, it typically comes with a substantial cost (depending on the size of your roof). Sometimes a roof repair is still an option, too!
2. Attic Insulation
In addition to securing the strength of your roof, adding extra insulation in the attic is also a prudent step to boost your energy savings. Insulation comes in many forms, but the final effect is the same.
Adding insulation in your attic will help reduce overall heat loss in your home, reducing the chance of an ice dam forming on your roof. Insulation has a lot to do with your roof’s ventilation, which can adversely affect your energy bill. Check for signs that you should replace your insulation and see your bills reduce.
3. Siding
Siding also plays an important role in keeping the elements out and the warm air in. When siding reaches the end of its lifespan or a recent storm has caused significant damage, you may be looking at a higher energy bill and possible water damage.
Repairing or replacing your siding can help seal up the interior of your home and prevent heat loss and water damage.
4. Windows
Windows are one of the biggest factors when it comes to energy efficiency in your home. After all, they are just giant holes with glass in the middle!
When windows show their age, air can leak in and out through the seals, or radiate through the pane itself. Installing energy-efficient windows can help with heat loss this winter.
5. Gutters
Gutters are an important part of your home. Not only do they help move water away from your home, but they also play a critical role in your home’s energy efficiency. If your gutters are clogged, broken, or in general disrepair, then they will not move water properly, and a host of problems can crop up.
Water can get into your home if it has nowhere else to go, which can cause leaks. Your ceiling and wall insulation can absorb that water, which causes it to be less effective and will no longer provide a thermal barrier. Keep your gutters clean and in good shape to avoid these potential problems.
Contact Trinity Exteriors for Energy-Efficient Renovations in the Twin Cities
No matter which way you want to improve your energy efficiency, contact Trinity Exteriors. We have over 15 years of experience providing the best service and quality craftsmanship. We are passionate about making sure your home is in top shape and remains that way.
Whether you need a new roof, siding, or windows, give us a call. Get a free quote today, or give us a call at 952-920-9520! We look forward to adding you to our growing list of beloved clients!