If you're working on your summer to-dos, consider adding home weatherization to your list.
We typically think about weatherizing our homes during winter months when we're standing next to a chilly window or a drafty exterior door. But weatherizing your home provides comfort and energy savings year-round, especially during summer months when your air conditioner is working overtime.
According to energystar.gov, a home with insufficient insulation and air leaks wastes more than 20% of the energy used to heat or cool the home - that's essentially throwing money out the door. Fortunately, most weatherization projects are easy to DIY and can be completed in a day.
The simplest and most cost-effective weatherization strategies include air sealing around windows and exterior doors.
If you have older windows, odds are you have air escaping through tiny cracks and gaps around the frame. Do a quick visual inspection. If you can see any daylight around the frame or the windows rattle easily, you likely have air leaks. Also check for any small cracks around the frame that may not be visible with sunlight.
If you suspect you have leaky windows and plan to apply new caulk, be sure to remove the old caulk and clean the area well before application. Caulking materials vary in strength and properties, but you'll likely need a half-cartridge per window.
Silicone caulk is a popular choice and can also be used to seal joints between bathroom and kitchen fixtures. If you have any leftover caulk, use it to seal those areas.
Another effective but simple weatherization project is installing weatherstripping around exterior doors. The most common types of weatherstripping options are V-channel, felt and foam tape. To choose the best type for your home, consider temperature fluctuations and weather exposure. Most homeowners opt for felt or foam tape; both options are easy to install but will need to be replaced every couple years, depending on wear and tear. Weatherstripping should be installed around the top and sides of the door.
If you see daylight around the bottom of an exterior door, consider installing a door sweep in addition to weatherstripping. Door seeps are available in aluminum, plastic, vinyl, and felt options.
Weatherstripping can also be installed around windows, typically to the sides of a double hung or sliding window, or around the window sash.
If you're unsure how to install weatherstripping or apply caulk, check out trusted websites like Lowes.com or energy.gov for step-by-step instructions and video tutorials.
Another way to improve comfort in your home is adding insulation. While this is a more costly project and requires a professional's help, it's an effective way to decrease heat flow, which impact energy use in the winter and summer months. Older homes may need additional insulation to either replace older materials or meet new efficiency standards. Contact a qualified installation specialist if you suspect your home's insulation levels are inadequate.
In addition to saving energy, air sealing can help you avoid moisture control issues, improve indoor air quality and extend the life of your heating and cooling system. Weatherize your home to unlock year-round comfort and savings on monthly energy costs.