Judie Docs, Executive Officer, North Coast Building Industry Association (NCBIA), CSP, MCSP, CGP, CMP, MIRM
Children are back to school, and it’s time for homeowners to head outside and do a little “homework” themselves. Focusing on a few maintenance projects now will help prepare your home when the cold temperatures hit.
Not only will these projects help you manage your energy bills, they also enhance and protect one of your biggest investments: your home.
Minimize the Amount of Escaping Air
Heated air can escape from gaps that develop where building materials meet. Some of the most common areas include where exterior siding meets windows and doors, around roof and foundation lines, around chimneys and where pipes protrude through walls or roofs. Check all those locations to see if any gaps have formed and if so, apply the appropriate caulk or sealant.
Heat rises, which mean heat from your home also can escape through any vulnerable areas of the roof. The most efficient way to stop that heat loss is by installing ceiling and roof insulation with an R-value of R38 is good for this area. The R-value refers to the ability of any material to resist the passage of heat.
Strengthen Your Windows and Doors
Your windows and doors are another area to ensure that the warm air stays in and cold air remains out. Look for any cracks around glass, sashes and window frames. Apply adhesive foam weather strips to the top and bottom window rails, or nail felt weather-stripping where window sashes and frames make contact. Newer homes are much more likely to have double or triple-paned windows, which can dramatically improve energy efficiency.
Don’t Neglect Your Gutters
Gutters and downspouts can easily become clogged over time, even if they have guards intended to keep out debris. Regularly inspect and clean gutters thoroughly, paying special attention to elbows and bends in the downspouts. Keep hangers fastened securely and plug any holes or cracks. You can also touch up any sections showing signs of rust with rustproof paint.
Performing routine home maintenance projects like these will help you manage your energy bills during the cooler months and help to prolong the life of your home and enhance its value.
To learn more on anything mentioned, contact the North Coast Building Industry Association. We are your local not-for-profit trade association representing member companies involved in all aspects of home building, remodeling, and other aspects of services available to help you in the future as well as more information on the above topic. So, you can see it is for your protection that you use a NCBIA member. If you are unsure that your contractor is a member of the NCBIA or you are looking for a list of NCBIA members, you can visit our website at www.ncbia.com or call 440-934-1090. We also have a job posting board (under the Industry tab).
Just Built! Our 24/7 Virtual Parade of Homes!!! Allows you to look at some of our builders’ new homes and communities on your mobile device or computer at your leisure. We know time is our greatest asset and via our NCBIA Virtual Parade of Homes, we save you time looking for a new home or a community that fits your lifestyle.
The North Coast Building Industry Association has members that can help homeowners with all these projects. Check out the Consumers section of our website at www.ncbia.com/consumers. If you’re looking for a new home, explore the virtual parade of homes, available at your fingertips 24/7.
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Please feel free to use the NCBIA as a resource for any needs that you may have. Chances are we have a member that can assist you. Give us a call Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 440-934-1090. The NCBIA is your local not-for-profit trade association representing member companies involved in all aspects of home building, remodeling, and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. For a list of members visit http://members.ncbia.com/list.