5 Ways to Improve Your Home’s Energy Efficiency (& Save on Bills!)

Improving the energy efficiency of your home can often seem like a costly undertaking, so Global Home Improvements, a local leader and innovator in home renovations and improvements, shared five options homeowners can consider when looking to bring the cost of energy bills down. 

It’s important to view these upgrades as long-term investments. Over time, the amount of money you will save on utility bills will offset the costs of the upgrades suggested below.  

1. Replacement Windows: One of the easiest ways to cut down on energy costs is to replace old drafty windows. Many older homes have aluminum or wood windows, so it’s important to look into swapping them out for widows made of insulated vinyl or fiberglass. If you can’t afford to do a full replacement, focus on the rooms you spend the most time. For a quick, and relatively inexpensive fix, consider weather stripping. This easy solution can make a big difference.

2. Attic Insulation: Because heat rises, over 40% of all heat loss is lost through the attic, so it’s important to make sure your attic is well insulated. Over the last 50 years, the building code standards have changed in regard to how much insulation should be used in an attic. Not only that, homes built before 1970 have outdated insulation that is much less efficient than insulation made today. Insulation will give you the highest return on investment (ROI) on your heating bills, because it is the most effective material for keeping heat in, and can be less expensive than other alternatives.

3. Insulated Siding: When looking to insulate, consider replacing your home’s siding - especially if it’s an older home. They now make foam insulated siding intended to improve energy efficiency. It will also give your home a more updated look enhancing the curb appeal. Insulated siding is a great option to look at because it is easier and much more cost efficient than insulating between your walls. You would have to rip into the wall and go into the rafters, which can become a major, burdensome project.

4. Metal Roofing: During the summer months, when trying to keep the heat out, a metal roof can be extremely effective. When the sun hits your home, it’s not just the heat, but also the radiation that makes your house hot, so the metal roof reflects the heat and radiation to keep your home cool. A metal roof can be especially effective in ranch homes or homes with a finished attic or cathedral ceilings.

5. Solar panels: Solar panels can be a great way to improve your carbon footprint and create a long-term investment for significant energy savings. However, before you even considering solar, you should look into the first four options, because it doesn't make sense to put solar on an inefficient house. With solar panels, you’re not offsetting 100% of your electricity – you’re offsetting about 50%, so it’s important to first get your energy bill as low as possible. Make your home air tight and as efficient as possible, then solar can really make an impact. 

With these energy-saving options, you not only save and money and reduce waste, but your home is more comfortable to live in, and there is less stress on your heating and air conditioning units helping them to last longer.

Global Home Improvements will be at the Philly Home + Garden Show, January 15-17 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, in booth# 201 discussing these energy saving tips and more! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you connect with us on Facebook and bring a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there! 

GREATER PHILADELPHIA EXPO CENTER
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.

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Indianapolis Home Show Exhibitor Spotlight: Cochran Exteriors, LLC

We're pleased to have Cochran Exteriors, LLC joining us at the 2016 Indianapolis Home Show. This full service commercial and residential restoration company is devoted to customer service and helps homeowners rebuild after damaging storms and protect their biggest investment: their home.

Cochran Exteriors, LLC believes that the excellent customer service they provide as a family owned business set them apart from their competition. Their attention to detail is top notch, and they're happy to provide a single point of contact for all of your roofing and home exterior needs.

Learn more about this Indianapolis based company when you visit them in booth #607. But before you connect with them at the show, get to know the Cochran Exteriors, LLC team a bit better through our brief interview below. See what they've got planned for 2016 and how they can help with your home.

Please describe your services.

"We take pride in our work and welcome the opportunity to assist residential and commercial owners in their restoration projects. We work hard to ensure that you receive the highest quality products with complete customer service at the best value. Our mission is to provide you with an effective and comprehensive roofing, siding, and gutter system that will deliver satisfaction for years to come.

Cochran Exteriors, LLC, is an experienced construction company with 30+ years of construction experience. We are committed to providing excellence in roofing, siding, and gutter work. We have become specialists in addressing the needs of hail and wind damaged properties that require attention.

Perhaps one of the areas which sets Cochran Exteriors apart from our competitors is our dedication to improving the aesthetics of each homeowner's property. We consider this aspect of the project to be a critical link in the ultimate success of any restoration project. Cochran Exteriors constantly strives to stay abreast of the latest technologies, training of our personnel, and supplying our clients with the best resources for their restoration project.

Our reputation is not only our guarantee. Cochran Exteriors will provide the necessary service to complete any project to the highest level of quality and offer the industry standard for product and installation warranties. As a family owned business, Cochran Exteriors is looking out for your needs."

What are your best tips for homeowners?

"8 Warning Signs That Your Roof Is Shot:

1. Your roof's 25th birthday is approaching.
2. The shingles are curling.
3. Entire shingles are missing.
4. The shingles are cracked.
5. You're finding granules in the gutter.
6. The shingles are covered with moss or algae.
7. You can see sunlight from your attic.
8. The entire roof is sagging."

Will you have any show specials?

"Same day estimates and Owens Corning™ Roofing Platinum Preferred Warranty Upgrade deals."

What are your biggest home related pet peeves?

"When other roofers in our industry give homeowners/customers bad or incorrect information. Cochran Exteriors constantly strives to stay abreast of the latest technologies, training of our personnel, and supplying our clients with the best resources possible for their restoration project."

What is your favorite part of the Indianapolis Home Show?

"Socializing with all the homeowners and building relationships."

Is there anything else you think folks should know about your company?

"Cochran Exteriors, LLC is an Owens Corning™ Roofing Platinum Preferred Contractor which can have a big impact on your warranty coverage. This also means that we meet Owens Corning™ strict standards for professionalism, business stability, and customer service."

Mark your calendars! The Indianapolis Home Show takes over the Indiana State Fairgrounds January 22-31, 2016. With hundreds of experts ready to help with your next home improvement project, it's a must-attend event for Indiana homeowners. Follow @HomeShowIND on Twitter and Like Us on Facebook to stay up to date with the latest Indianapolis Home Show news. We're counting down to 2016 and hope you are too!

INDIANA STATE FAIRGROUNDS
JANUARY 22-31, 2016.

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