Sustainability is one of the top home renovation trends. Energy efficiency is incredibly important for homeowners who want to make a positive impact on the environment while enjoying the economic benefits. While interior renovations like energy-efficient appliances and smart thermostats are major elements of sustainability, there are some significant exterior upgrades homeowners can make to reduce their carbon footprint as well. From cool roofing to UV-protected windows, the first step to an energy-efficient home is to research your options.
Roofing
If you’re looking for a more energy-efficient home, one of the best places to start is the roof. The roof doesn’t just enclose the building; it is one of the main defenses against the sun’s intense heat and light. Energy-efficient roofing is made up of materials and colors that can absorb this heat and light and reflect it away from the home, keeping it at ideal temperatures in the summer. In the winter, energy-efficient roofing can keep cold air from leaking into the house, sealing in the warmth to avoid excess furnace usage. Metal, clay, and asphalt shingles are popular roofing materials for energy efficiency. Solar panel roofing is also a great option if you’d like to switch to a renewable energy source. Color is an important factor, too. Reflective colors like white, beige, or gray can help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Siding
When it comes to sustainable home upgrades, many people forget about their siding. A home’s siding isn’t just about aesthetics or curb appeal. Siding plays a major role in protecting a home from the elements, including extreme temperatures. Older siding can become damaged, allowing cold air in the winter and warm air in the summer to enter the home, overworking the HVAC system. When a home reaches the ideal temperature, siding problems can cause the home to lose that perfect temperature faster. Vinyl siding is popular for its cost-effectiveness and, when paired with insulation, can be an affordable way to maximize energy efficiency. Cement board and aluminum are better options, but may come with a higher price tag. No matter what material you choose, be certain that your home is properly insulated for maximum effect. You may want to find local contractors near you to compare quotes and material prices. Local options may be able to score you deals on high-quality siding materials. I found a siding contractor near me easily who had great rates to work with. Don’t neglect your siding!
Windows
Expansive windows are very popular in modern homes; natural light is a perfect way to illuminate without wasting energy. With the wrong materials, windows can cause significant drafts and weather leaks into the home. When installing or replacing windows, ensure they are properly fitted and inserted. Triple-pane windows provide much better insulation and weatherproofing than double-pane. If you want to save money, opt for a double-pane at a minimum. UV glazing on a window can further protect against weather leaking. Pay attention to the windows you install; you can save hundreds on your energy bills while enjoying natural light and scenic views.
Renewable Energy
Solar energy is often the first item on the list of energy-efficient home upgrades, and for good reason. Renewable energy, like solar or wind power, is entirely clean; it doesn’t run out, and harnessing it is easier than ever with residential wind turbines and solar panels. If you want your home to run on clean, reusable energy, you’ll definitely want to make the switch to solar or wind power. Switching will save you a lot of money on your energy bills, but you do need to pay significant upfront costs for installation. You can place solar panels or wind turbines directly on your roof or elsewhere on your property for maximum versatility and convenience.
Landscaping
In terms of energy efficiency, you can save a lot of money on your home energy bills just by planting some trees. Natural shade from trees or shrubs can help keep your home cool in the summer, which can keep your air conditioning from working as hard. As a bonus, plant life improves the air quality of the space around you. Plants provide a natural sanctuary for animals and insects, improving the local ecosystem.
Conclusion
It may not be cost-effective to make all these home upgrades at once, but you can tackle smaller projects little by little to slowly improve the energy efficiency of your home. When it comes to switching to renewable energy, you’re going to want to compare installation costs from many different providers in your area for the best deal; don’t be afraid to shop around. Your home can be energy-efficient through smaller actions as well, like turning lights off when you leave a room and using energy-efficient LED bulbs. The more homes practice energy efficiency, the more the environment will thrive.
