The Components That Make Up An Energy Efficient Home
Lindus Construction’s COO Andy Lindus guides Twin Cities homeowners into the components that make up an energy-efficient home.
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When a homeowner contacts us for a free estimate, it is our goal to partner with them to create the most comfortable and energy efficient home possible. Our approach is a unified one, treating the home as a complete system. A compartmentalized approach often leads to wasted money. For example, failure to consider an attic’s insulation, ventilation, and air sealing during a roof replacement project can prematurely age your roof.
Energy-Efficient Roofing
In addition, a home’s energy efficiency is often compromised. Reliable residential roofing companies offer free estimates and will help you understand if the discoloration you’re seeing on your roof is due to granule loss or mold and algae growth. Streaks found near galvanized roof pipes are often a result of zinc oxidation, which encourages algae growth.
To combat this issue, GAF roofing manufactures their Timberline Ultra HD® Shingles with StainGuard Plus™ Time-Release technology. The 25-year warranty against blue-green algae roof discoloration offers homeowners the ultimate peace of mind.
Blower Door Testing
Be wary of any contractor that fails to perform diagnostic testing or fails to review your basement when suggesting insulation. A blower door is a forceful fan that’s attached to the frame of your front door. The fan is designed to withdraw air from your home, lowering the interior pressure. This permits exterior air pressure to flow through cracks and crevices within your home. A smoke pencil is then used to identify areas of energy inefficiency.
Oftentimes the best spot to begin with the smoke pencil is in the basement. This is because the rim (area of the home that sits on the foundation) is notorious for leaking air and introducing condensation when warm air comes in contact with a cool surface. Spray foaming this area with closed cell spray foam insulation is often advantageous. In terms of crawlspaces, it’s wise to spray foam the ceiling, walls, and dirt. This approach encapsulates the entire area and creates a more energy efficient home.
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Energy-Efficient Windows
A common myth about home window replacement is that the new window must be the same style as the one it is taking the place of. Many times homeowners utilizing full frame window replacement opt to replace their sliding windows with a style that has better air infiltration ratings, like double hung windows.
Another common misnomer about window replacements is that it’s a faux pas to install multiple brands of windows within the home. Reputable contractors can custom stain windows to match a home’s pre-existing woodwork.
Lastly, home window replacement can be done in phases over the span of a few years to accommodate a homeowner’s budget.
Contact us today to learn how Lindus Construction can make your home more energy efficient.
Our team answers homeowner questions every weekend on WCCO 830 AM from 9:00 am-10:00 am. Have your most pressing home improvement questions answered by calling or texting 651.461.9226.
