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| Home improvement process saves on energy costs With energy prices predicted to escalate dramatically this winter, Energy Star, an Environmental Protection Agency program, now offers an important home improvement process called "Seal and Insulate." US GreenFiber's primary product line, Cocoon insulation, is a qualified Energy Star partner, and their product, used in walls and attics, plays an important role in this residential energy conservation process. The seal and insulate process has two basic steps in home energy conservation: 1) seal all places where air leaks in or out of a home; and, 2) add insulation. The seal and insulate home improvement process controls energy costs, makes homes more comfortable and helps the environment. The most important place to seal air leaks begins in the attic with open wall tops, leaking HVAC ducts and holes around pipes, wires, flues, vents and chimneys. Although often covered by insulation, holes can be detected by looking for dirty insulation where air flows through it. After sealing air leaks in the attic, the next place to focus on is sealing the basement. Finally, all windows, doors, and outlets should be sealed off from air flow with caulking and weather stripping. Once sealing is completed, insulation must be added. The amount of insulation needed depends on the climate, type of heating used, and the section of the house to be insulated. The attic is the first area to consider because it is accessible and, therefore, less expensive to insulate. One key benefit of Cocoon cellulose blown-in insulation is that it can be added on top of existing insulation. Once the attic is insulated, then insulation should be added to side and basement walls. And after all insulation is completed, a local heating and cooling contractor should check combustion appliances to ensure they are venting properly. Since insulation is measured in R-value, which is resistant to heat flow, the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. The Department of Energy recommends R-38 to R-49 for attics depending on the geographic climate zone and the heat source. Cocoon is unique in that it helps to seal air leaks while also insulating attics and walls to reduce escalating energy costs. All materials needed to complete the Energy Star's seal and insulate program are available at building supply and home improvement centers. The process can easily be completed by homeowners or professional insulation contractors. Cocoon insulation consists of an earth-friendly, 85 percent recycled material and requires less energy to produce than mineral fibers such as fiberglass. Cocoon also reduces sound and has a Class-1 fire rating. The product, when used in the attic and exterior walls, promotes thermal comfort. In the interior walls, it also cuts down on the transmission of sound. write your comments about the article :: © 2005 Construction News :: home page |