Normal upgrades = Energy savings

By Wayne J. Ball, CGR, CAPS
President of Lone Star Building & Construction Services, Inc.
   
As our homes grow older and are in need of common maintenance and repairs considering upgrades when repairing just makes sense. Energy costs are not going to come down so all of us need to do our part to save energy and at the same time save money by including upgrades during regular maintenance and repairs. The following are some areas in which upgrades can be incorporated. 

When you install a new shingle roofing system on your home, you might want to incorporate a couple of projects with the new roof.  Improving your attic ventilation system at the same time will reduce excess heat build up and remove moisture from the attic area.  While the roof is being installed have ridge and soffit vents or solar powered attic fans installed. Which reduces attic heat and equals energy savings. Most roofing contractors will install these upgrades at a minimal cost if they are incorporated into the entire project. 

If your homes roofing system requires new plywood decking, use plywood or Osb board with a radiant foil face. This product shields the attic from up to 97% of the radiant heat in the panel, keeping your home cooler and allowing your air conditioner to operate more efficiently.

Replacing your old outdated single glazed windows?  You might include the use of Low-E insulated glass as an upgrade in the new window systems. Low-E Glass has a metallic coating on the inside of the outside pane. The coating will help keep your house warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Another strong point is that Low-E glass cuts down on UV light which will fade carpets and fabrics. Actual added costs of having your new windows include Low-E glass will be surprisingly affordable.
 
As appliances and delivery systems wear out, purchasing new energy efficient models should be considered. With heating and cooling systems added energy efficiency will entail a larger initial investment. Returns on that investment can vary greatly with the general consensus taking about five years for payback.

Only purchase appliances that carry the Energy Star Rating and compare each rating to find the product that fits your needs and has the lowest energy consumption.

Replacing regular incandescent light bulbs as they burn out with a compatible florescent bulb has to be the easiest way to save on energy costs. Incandescent bulbs use three times the amount of energy than there florescent counterparts.
 
As we make the repairs and upgrades to our homes, incorporating energy savings products and systems will save on the overall operating costs and help reduce the energy consumption.

This article was submitted by Wayne J. Ball, CGR, CAPS, President of Lone Star Building & Construction Services, Inc.