A comfortable home is a happy home. And when it comes to happiness, energy efficient renovations play a pivotal role, not just for the aesthetic appeal but also for the financial and environmental benefits they bring. Saving energy is a great way to reduce your monthly utility bills and increase your home’s comfort at the same time. But it’s important to remember that when it comes to energy efficiency, it’s more than just what’s on the inside that counts. We’ve taken the time to outline several energy-efficient upgrades for the outside of your home.
Energy Efficient Renovations for the Outside of Your House
1. Double up your window panes
Windows do more than let in light — they are actually a huge source of energy loss in your home year-round! Not only do they lose about 30% of your home’s heat energy during the winter, but they also let sunlight (and heat energy) into your home in the summer! That means that no matter the season, your windows could be costing you. What can you do about it?
Outdoor upgrade: Install double-pane windows. Double-pane windows are a hallmark of energy efficient renovations. When replacing old single-pane windows, this upgrade could save you $101–$583 per year on energy costs! Not only that, but it will keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.
Other options: If you can’t replace all your windows right now, there are still ways you can stop that energy loss. Try weatherstripping your windows to prevent those outdoor breezes from becoming indoor breezes. Or cover your windows with some window insulation film at the start of winter to keep the heat where it belongs — inside your home.
2. Give your roof the attention it deserves
The roof over your head serves as a barrier between you and the harsh outside world, so treat it right! Over time, your roof can break down, letting in drafts and the elements and letting out all that warm or cold air you’re paying for! Pay attention to your roof and upgrade it when it’s time.
Outdoor upgrade: If your old roof isn’t cutting it — and your budget can take it — it may be time to replace your roof. As efficiency is becoming more and more important, there’s no shortage of options to install a roof that is energy efficient and stylish too!
Other options: Maybe your roof isn’t in need of repair or replacement, but there are still ways you can improve it. Installing insulation in your roof is a great way to keep the interior of your home at a comfortable temperature (while making your roof more durable and preventing the need for future repairs!). Want to get even more out of your efficient roof? Consider installing solar panels to help generate electricity for your home and reduce your reliance on the grid.
3. Upgrade your siding
While we’re talking about insulation, let’s chat about your walls. A home that is improperly insulated will let in more than just the cold — it can also lead to mold and pest problems! Energy efficient renovations to your home's siding can prevent heat loss, fend off moisture, and even keep pests at bay.
Outdoor upgrade: Install insulated siding. That’s right, insulation isn’t just important inside your walls! Your home’s siding can be insulated too. Insulated vinyl siding comes with a form backing that will keep heat inside without a big investment (and it will prevent costly repairs in the future). It’s important to remember that your building material choice is crucial. Dense materials like brick or wood can add an additional barrier layer, and enhance the energy efficiency making it easier to keep the inside of your home comfortable.
Other options: Not ready to replace your siding? It’s still important to ensure your insulation is properly installed and functioning. Take a look at these signs you may have bad insulation, and bring in the experts if it’s time to check out what’s going on inside your walls.
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4. Open up to savings with efficient doors
When one door closes… you get an opportunity to be more efficient! Exterior doors are a big culprit when it comes to energy loss — especially if they’re old, installed incorrectly, or aren’t sealed.
Outdoor upgrade: Give your home a facelift with a new energy-efficient exterior door. When making your selection, be sure to look for an Energy Star sticker. Also keep in mind your material and door style: swinging doors are more efficient than sliding glass doors. Metal doors often require less maintenance than wood, which gives you another opportunity to save money.
Other options: Not looking to upgrade your door (or is your door already efficient)? There are still ways you can give it some attention. Try weatherstripping to prevent leaks or installing a draft stopper.
a modern kitchen / modern acoutrements / and classic styling
Focus on the little things
There are plenty of upgrades you can make for your home — and they don’t have to be big investments! Energy-efficient renovations extend beyond the big projects; they also encompass the smaller, more manageable changes you can make around your home. Take inventory of your home and determine ways you can be more efficient. The little things can up. Try planting shade trees to keep the summer sun outside. Re-caulk areas that are showing wear. Overall, energy efficiency is about preventative maintenance, so get started!
Need a partner?
At PosiGen, we understand that efficiency is important, but it can be confusing. Need a partner to help you become more efficient? When you go solar with PosiGen, we offer additional energy efficiency upgrades at no cost, so you can keep your home running its best and trust that PosiGen will be there every step of the way.
