Weatherproofing

Here are some easy and inexpensive weatherproofing ideas that will save energy and money.

• Caulking: Caulk between the siding and windows and doors to cut down on heat loss. For large cracks and gaps, use expandable foam that comes in a spray can. It can even be trimmed and sanded.
• Weather stripping: This is easy to cut to length and apply. Use it to seal gaps between moving parts, such as around windows and doors. The weather stripping has an adhesive backing, and is easily cut to fit.
• Insulate electrical outlets: You can buy thin foam outlet covers. They are installed behind the existing outlet cover. There is no cutting, as the foam is already in the shape of the outlet. This is an easy, money saving project that is often overlooked.
• Wrap the water heater: You can purchase a water-heater insulation kit. It consists of a special "blanket" to wrap around the water heater. This saves energy by allowing the water heater to retain more of it's own heat.
• Attic and wall insulation: If you live in an older home, it might be a good idea to have an insulation specialist check the R value of the insulation in your walls and attic. Sometimes, in an older home , the insulation has settled ,or is just not adequate. Updating your insulation can net you big savings on heating and cooling.