High energy bills, yet your home is still uncomfortable? You might be due for energy-efficient home upgrades! Investing in a new window, roofing, and siding not only gives consistent indoor temperature but also accumulates savings in the long run.
In this post, we discuss the benefits of these home upgrades and the role your exterior plays in energy efficiency. Keep reading and see why now could be the perfect time to plan a home improvement project!
Benefits of energy-efficient home upgrades
Home upgrades provide more than just curb appeal. It also gives you and your family the following perks:
- Lower energy bills. Energy-efficient home upgrades reduce drafts that force your heating and cooling system to over-compensate.
- Tax incentives. Government programs, such as the ENERGY STAR certification, incentivize energy-efficient upgrades by giving homeowners tax credits or rebates of up to 30%.
- Increased comfort. Added insulation through energy-efficient exteriors boosts your family’s comfort all year round, whether during harsh winters or sweltering summers.
- Higher property value. Upgrading to energy-efficient windows, siding, or roofing will directly increase your home’s resale value. According to Angi, roofing, window replacement, and siding are the best home projects with the highest ROI.
- Extended HVAC lifespan. Energy-efficient home upgrades reduce the unnecessary wear and tear on your heating and cooling appliances. This reduces repetitive repairs and increases its service life.
The role of windows in energy efficiency
Windows are the most common source of drafts in a home. Poor placement, incorrect installation, and substandard materials create a recipe for uncontrolled air leaks and skyrocketing energy bills.
These are the issues energy-efficient windows solve. Here’s how a window upgrade makes it possible:
- Multiple glazing. Energy-rated windows have double or triple glazing that keep heat out in summer. Glazing refers to the layers of glass panes sealed with inert gas for increased thermal performance.
- Low-E coatings. Glass windows with low emissivity (low-E) coatings reflect infrared energy better than standard glass. It still allows visible sunlight to pass through without the excessive heat.
- Natural lighting. Despite using multiple layers of material, energy-efficient windows still allow natural light as traditional types do. This reduces the need for artificial lighting during the day, not to mention free heating on cold days.
The role of siding upgrades in energy efficiency
Your home’s siding acts as the external shell against harsh outdoor elements. If it’s damaged, outdated, or not energy-certified, you’re literally burning money on your utility bills.
Here’s how upgrading to modern and energy-efficient siding can make a difference in your home:
- Increased durability. Modern siding made of composite material is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions longer than its older counterparts. It keeps air leaks and heat at bay, making your home more comfortable in the long run.
- Better insulation. Energy-efficient siding has a better overall R-value or thermal resistance. Siding materials, such as insulated vinyl, stucco, and fiber cement, offer excellent insulation throughout the year.
- Excellent moisture management. Properly installed siding upgrades prevent moisture from penetrating exterior walls. This reduces the risk of mold growth and pest infestation. Over time, these problems will damage your old siding and cause energy efficiency issues.
The role of modern roofing in energy efficiency
Advancements in roof technology have made homes more energy-efficient than ever. Modern materials that reflect sunlight make a home’s environment cooler and energy bills lower. On top of that, a professional roofing company uses special coatings, strategic installation, and unique designs to enhance the roof’s energy efficiency further.
Here are some of the latest roofing features that can make your home more comfortable:
- Reflective roofing membranes. Roofing membranes are semi-flexible materials that create a watertight covering over your roof. Roofing membrane types like TPO, PVC, and EPDM have excellent solar reflectance for guaranteed energy efficiency.
- Reflecting coatings. Reflective coatings are applied on a roof to enhance its reflective properties. This way, your home will feel much cooler, and the roof’s durability will be extended in the long run.
- Solar roofing. Residential solar roofing has become more affordable and accessible over the years. It allows homeowners to harness direct sunlight as a power source, allowing them to save on utility bills while keeping their roofs cooler.
Smart homeowners switch to energy-efficient exteriors!
Home improvement projects are great opportunities to invest in energy-efficient upgrades. More than its aesthetic value, these upgrades should enhance your family’s comfort and your home’s safety against harsh outdoor elements.
With that, wise homeowners prefer energy-efficient exterior options. While energy-rated exteriors cost more than their traditional counterparts, you’ll enjoy long-term savings in the years to come.
