Weatherizing Buildings 101

Image via www.thebarrierinsulation.com

Did you know that in 2004 residential buildings in the United States used 21 percent of the nations energy consumption? The *2030 challenge demands that existing buildings reduce fossil-fuel dependence by 50 percent. Weatherization can help fight global warming by reducing the heating and cooling requirements of buildings. It involves building remodeling with the goal of improving energy performance. Weatherization can also be part of the triple bottom line by increasing the comfort of occupants and saving the planet while reducing energy costs. While energy savings can be achieved through new technologies such as solar panels or solar water heating systems, addressing energy saving through weatherization is a cost effective first step.

TOP 3 RENOVATIONS ESSENTIAL TO WEATHERIZATON

1. Seal the building envelope
Leaks in the building envelope can be located with the help of a weatherizing contractor. Air sealing techniques such as caulking or weather stripping can be utilized to seal doors and windows. Henkel OSI® GreenSeries™ is a low-VOC line of caulks and sealants capable of improving building performance at a minimal cost, while improving indoor air quality.

2. Insulate
Unnecessary heat loss can be avoided by adding insulation in attic areas. Cellulose spray insulation can be used on top of existing insulation or in exposed cavities. Nu-Wool Cellulose Insulation is made from recycled paper that would other wise end up in a landfill. It fills in gaps and voids better than other insulation materials. A project typically costs a few hundred dollars and is considered a great long term investment in terms of energy savings.

3. Reduce unwanted heat gain
Installing reflective roofs can reduce unwanted heat gain in the summer months. Energy Smart Roof is a highly reflective roof membrane that will reduce cooling costs attributed to heat island effect which can raise temperature 5 to 10 degrees This is likely the most expensive weatherization method costing thousands of dollars. However, a two year study done by the EPA **in Austin, Texas demonstrated a savings of 7.2 cents per square foot with a lifetime saving of $61,000 to $71,000.

All of the above mentioned products can be found in Ecolect Materials library.

*Buildings Energy Data Book, Chapter 2:1 http://buildingsdatabook.eren.doe.gov/TableView.aspx?table=2.1.1

**Study Proves White Thermoplastic Roof Saves Money http://www.sarnafilus.com//lbnl_study_r.htm

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