Unpredictable energy bills can drive any home owner crazy. You’ve tried everything in an attempt to curb that excessive energy waste. Limiting energy usage, unplugging television sets and electronics, and balancing the temperature on your thermostat. None of these solutions have had any impact on reducing your unreasonably high energy bills. And with the average family paying more than $2,000 a year on utility bills, homeowners are desperate for solutions.
Sometimes the real issue isn’t a result of poor energy management, but from a house that needs exterior updating. Below are some exterior remodeling solutions that will not only help you save on your energy bill, but add curb appeal to your home:
Siding
Walls in your home account for 35% of its total energy loss, according to the United States Department of Energy. This is by far the largest energy loss margin within your home – with the roof close behind at 25%. Even if your walls are insulated, you can still lose energy through a process called thermal bridging.
While conditioned and unconditioned air may be seeping through your walls, repairing or installing siding can counteract the energy loss. While repairing your current siding will still help reduce energy costs slightly, the most effective solution is to install brand new, insulated siding. On average, a home with insulated siding will reduce heating and cooling costs by an average of 14.2%
On top of saving a ton on utility bills, new siding will give your house a fresh look that will make your neighbors envious.
Windows
Older windows aren’t just an eyesore – They can have air leaks and drafts that cause roughly 10% of energy loss within your home. Replacing your windows can be critical when combating energy loss. However, new energy efficient windows decrease the pressure on your HVAC system, and ensure that your furnace and air conditioner last longer. With a wide variety of styles and designs, new windows can make your home look and feel like new again. Simply replacing your windows can increase your home’s market value, and you’ll recoup about 70 to 80% of the cost.
Just remember, top of the line, energy efficient windows are important, but having a trusted, experienced exterior remodeling professional who will install the windows properly is just as important.
Doors
Replacing your front door may seem like a simple solution, but a drafty doorway can cause energy loss that totals up to 15%. That’s no small number. The good news is replacing your front door is not a time-consuming renovation project. A skilled remodeling contractor can replace your doorway in 1-2 days.
Choosing the right door is also important. Doors that meet energy star requirements are actually more than just doors – they’re entire systems. With an entry system, the insulated door is mounted within a frame that includes interlocking weather-stripping – which prevents air from getting in or out. Doors are also a great way to increase your home’s resale value.
Roof
Replacing the roof on your home can be a costly renovation project – but if you hire the right company, your brand-new roof will last you 25-30 years.
In addition to keeping your home safe from the elements, a new roof is key in preventing energy loss within your home – with your roof accounting for 25% of total energy loss.
Solar reflectance is the most important characteristic for roofing materials when it comes to measuring energy savings. Reflective roofs can reduce the temperature on the surface of a roof by as much as 30 percent – reducing the cooling demand placed on your home.
In addition to energy saving benefits, reflective roofs can prevent degradation from sun damage, affecting the overall durability of your roof. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) light, which, even in mild climates, degrades roofing materials over time.
Which Exterior Remodeling Solution is Best?
Based on total energy loss, replacing home siding will probably have the largest impact on your utility bill. However, every home is different, and it is important to understand and examine all possibilities. That’s why it’s important to hire a professional to examine and analyze your home. If you need guidance or suggestions regarding any exterior remodeling needs, drop us a line, and we’ll see what we can do for you.
